Why Are Teens Opting Out of Driving?

Fifteen-year-old Mia Castellanos is like a lot of teens these days. She has zero interest in getting her driver's license. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 25% of 16 year olds opted to get their license in 2021. Receiving your driver's license used to be a right of passage and a key step towards independence. However, being independent looks very different to this generation of teenagers, thanks in large part to everything you need being at your fingertips.

[@emartinezpacheco1424]

My son refused to drive and get a license until he turned 18 because at 15 when he could begin driver’s ed, he said it was a huge responsibility and wasn’t ready. I am proud of him that he did not hurry to get his license and did so when he was ready. He has been driving 4 months now and I am glad to see he took driving seriously and realized it is a huge responsibility.

[@enviousgaming3250]

I waited til i was 17 and took the drivers ed classes At 15 i just wasnt ready, interested and had a lot in my plate back then Now at 26 i am a pretty good driver

[@mockingbirdarmada]

Congrats, your son has 3 years less driving experience, is less prepared having not had his parents take the time to teach him the skill during key formative years, and will have to pay higher interest rates for having had his license fewer years. He "refused" says everything. Face fears and learn a skill you have to learn at some point anyway or kick the can down the road? Solid parenting.

[@omygodish3]

😂

[@nathanknight2508]

@Big Matty 💪 I’m a teenager and don’t care about social media? Your developing a bias against all teenagers all because you dislike some of them. I know many intelligent teens who don’t care about social media and choose to go places. You don’t know anything about the good side of the modern generation.

[@emartinezpacheco1424]

@@nathanknight2508 well said Nathan! 🙌🏼

[@madamadadane7989]

The weight of potentially causing damage, hurting others and killing someone is huge and hard for teens. I understand why they would opt out and wait until later

[@illestvillain1971]

Not for some American teens it isn't.

[@mrbojangles9841]

You must be a democrat. I can tell because the world scares you.

[@lashondamiller2982]

@@illestvillain1971 why’re u just saying all American teens aren’t concerned? Everyone’s different whoops disregard that message, my brains didn’t see that “some” u typed. My fault bruh 💀I needa go back to sleep

[@FIatts]

@@lashondamiller2982 bro your mind is gonna be blown when you hear about the delete button

[@BingBongFairy]

​@@illestvillain1971 dude.. american teens especially. They already have to worry about being shot.

[@mimilove6639]

No , it’s the $300+ you have to pay for required driver’s school in MD.

[@moederkoekjes3380]

1200$+ in Canada

[@maxlarock8788]

My parents would rather pay that than drive me everywhere lol

[@truslo]

@@moederkoekjes3380 what do they teach you in, a ferrari?

[@big-gloom]

@@truslo On average you pay about 2600-3500€ in Germany to get your drivers license.

[@titanenzubber3778]

2000€ in Belgium man for a goed focus...​@@truslo

[@chrisrundejr6293]

My grandma woke me up on my 18th birthday and said "get ready, you're getting your license" forever grateful. I hated driving until I was in the car by myself.

[@Servergmr]

Well, you couldn't be forced into getting one.

[@magdalena_dewinter]

short answer: scary long answer: the price of fuel, buying a car, paying for insurance is so much. no one wants to be sitting in traffic all day, so many of us can’t afford it.

[@MisonoMika1]

the reason my mother doesn't want me to drive even I'm eager to do it. especially through insurance and tow companies

[@aged8570]

facts

[@genesistorres3257]

Or the fear of getting in a car accident

[@infini.tesimo]

Did you know you can get a remote job and still have a car and it will not be that expensive? The key is to put minimum miles driven for the insurance and it will not be that expensive.

[@adamd6648]

People keep asking me to learn how to drive, but where the hell am I getting the money?

[@JazzyMarineVet]

My niece will be 16 shortly and has zero interest and driving even when I offered her a nice little starter car. That is unimaginable for me and my generation growing up in the 90s with wheels

[@elijahevo6859]

Yeah I don't get that I started driving at 15 and I'm 18 now

[@rosieschweebie]

I was a terrible driver, and finally stopped trying to get my license at 31. I’ll be 56 years old soon, and I’m a rare breed in my generation to not be able to drive. So thankful my amazing husband of 33 years takes me where I need to go, and my daughter helps me too. Oh, and whoever invented online shopping is a genius!☺️

[@miac2382]

That's strange. I couldn't wait to drive and be independent and drive myself everywhere I needed to

[@miac2382]

​@@elijahevo6859 I started driving at fourteen

[@miac2382]

​@@rosieschweebie That's embarrassing. No offense but it's not that hard

[@mudasirjan06]

How come nobody is mentioning the ridiculous costs of insurance and gas in this age? Coverage for 15-20 year olds is expensive, it's much more affordable to just uber or have ur parent drive.

[@DavidKen878]

Grow up

[@Early90sBabyEnt.]

Right? I'm 30, and I never am getting my license.

[@DavidKen878]

@@Early90sBabyEnt. You say that like it's something to be proud of.

[@dillon17]

@@DavidKen878 Not having a license isn't something bad.. You can easily live without a license. lol

[@NoName-mf1un]

@@dillon17 not true at least here in the UK. if you want any security in your life you HAVE TO be able to drive.

[@mona6922]

Heya! 18 year old here, driving has never been an interest for me: 1.) Buying a car or putting down a down payment has been absolutely expensive, so much more than before and as someone who has no financial dependence on parents it’s been difficult 2) gas prices 😬😬😬 should I say more? 3) I don’t trust my peers considering how many actually drink and drive, it’s not about my own skills, it’s about others (and personally I’d rather wait till I was 18 because then I’ll be moving away and hey then I’ll have ignorance and bliss) 4) I personally enjoy walking and it’s a healthy habit for me, I can walk to and from work in 15 minutes and to school in 20 so I never felt the need to drive a car 5) there’s plenty of others ways to have independence other than driving BUT: I am glad to be able to afford buying a car soon and I’m looking forward to driving (although nervous) I just think that it’s a large pressure put on teenagers nowadays and honestly some people aren’t ready and I’d prefer it if we drove when we were prepared rather than forced to for convenience

[@iiCounted-op5jx]

yeah well at least u CAN walk

[@currentlyspeakingbmwmusic1793]

so basically youre broke

[@conormartin7416]

@@iiCounted-op5jxcan someone crippled in a wheelchair with dysfunctional legs drive? I don’t think so, they need leg movement to use the clutch, gas, and brakes

[@Sluggersparadise44]

As an eighteen year old who was in a major wreck this year, I completely understand. The weight of responsibility is huge, and the consequences of a single mistake on the road can change lives for the worst.

[@figgletinkle]

@@helloimclaudio you didn't even hear the full story to assume it was their fault

[@20KB04]

@@helloimclaudio why do you assume it’s his fault just because he’s 18. It could’ve been another person’s fault too. Grow up and use your brains bro

[@tiredcitizenz1925]

@@helloimclaudio Oh grow up who ever said it was their fault?

[@guitarking4734]

Wimps

[@sevsequinox4228]

LOL L DRIVER

[@breezystl777]

I would much rather have a teen who is overly careful about driving, than one who is scared but decided to drive when they knew they weren't ready. And props to these kids for having the maturity to take car safety and theirs and others lives seriously, and admit if they aren't ready. ❤

[@jaimealvarez8896]

AMÉN AMÉN AMÉN!!!

[@mrbojangles9841]

They're democrats. They don't have enough get up and go to get their license.

[@SeudXe]

Theres a difference between being overly careful and outright not wanting to drive. Being scared is a natural reaction. Get over it and start driving.

[@marisakirisame2366]

@@mrbojangles9841 this literally has nothing to do with politics.

[@maryperry6573]

That’s true. I did wait until I was 19, bc I just wasn’t ready and overly anxious. And out of every single person I know- I’ve never been in an accident, never hit another car visa vera, not even a little fender bender.

[@thatonegoth.9458]

I remember being terrified of learning how to drive at 16 but I knew I had to learn eventually as I was turning 17 soon & would have to start growing up. I'm 23 now & I am happy I took the plunge, it's completely normal to be scared but I promise you won't regret it!

[@PkGam]

I tried to learn at one point and regret it even 15+ years later as I still have nightmares.

[@Naiym]

Not me, but stay safe y'all!

[@DavidKen878]

Grow up 😂

[@Early90sBabyEnt.]

​@@DavidKen878says the NPC normie

[@DavidKen878]

@@Early90sBabyEnt. The hell is a NPC normie?

[@jamescoleman1473]

@@DavidKen878 a NPC normie would ask that

[@lifeonmars03]

These kids come up with new slang every week ​@@DavidKen878

[@jenna_south]

I totally relate to this. I just turned 23 and got my license only 5 months ago. I had such bad anxiety about driving, and it always scared me, but I always knew deep down I had to face my fears and go for it. Now I can't imagine not being able to take myself to work or the store. I'm so glad I did it!

[@mrbojangles9841]

You must be a democrat. You'll probably start investing in your 401k at 58 years old.

[@only2genders02]

I was driving at 13. Stole my dads truck and his Firebird. Yes, I drove a freakin firebird on the reg when I was 13.

[@StickyKeys187]

@@mrbojangles9841 I love me some Bojangles when I visit NC.

[@steveionjoker5319]

I'm also have bad driving anxiety

[@StarLightFIlmProductions]

​@@mrbojangles9841 OK trumpet shut it no one likes trolls

[@kbarts316]

I’m 24 and I feel ashamed about not having my license yet. I know it’s scary, but it’s an essential skill. What happens if there’s an emergency and you can’t get an Uber or call someone to pick you up?

[@metasprite5648]

Hey 24 here as well I don't have it either lol. I need to tho so I can get a better job.😅 let's hope we learn soon.

[@bitemeloser822]

I don't drive because I have seizures and I'm afraid of having one while driving.

[@nurulam8011]

Thats okay. Depends on the need as well. I got my license when in was 30 yrs (2020). With covid and wfh, and my employer allowed for employee to claim for Grab ride (like Uber), i never drive since ive got mine. Took it just because my parents made noises for me to get it

[@kvng_gtl_]

I’m 23 and I don’t have mine … I’ve been tryna get it for 5 years

[@kbarts316]

@@metasprite5648 Agreed. On the other hand, I’m glad I’m not the only one. ;w; Here’s hoping we get it! Fingers crossed.🤞I really want it now because my step-dad began to have health issues and can’t drive as much anymore. Plus I just think it’d give me more freedom instead of asking my folks for a lift lol

[@java3416]

I feel like it also depends on where you live. I grew up in NYC and had no reason to get my license or get a car. I walked, biked and took public transit everywhere. It wasn’t until I moved away from home to an area that didn’t have as good transit that I decided to buy a car (at 21🤷🏾‍♀️).

[@snowrocket]

True. I grew up in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, PA. Public transportation is sporadic there. Driving makes sense for most people.

[@brianduarte6045]

I used to want my license at 16, until I turned 14. I saw how the HS kids used to drive to school down the street, always crashing in front of the school every week.

[@snowrocket]

"Every week"?? I don't believe that for a second.

[@bigmuhlest7492]

Learn from their mistakes. There is a lot of idiots on the road but thats does not mean you have to become one of them. Learn to drive safely and you will be able to avoid the situations you observed.

[@brianduarte6045]

@@snowrocket the way the entrances were, it’s basically gate surrounding the parking lot. They open 2 sides, one to get in/out but there’s enough space for 2 cars to fit. Unpredictable turns and stuff lol, it’s the turn onto the street and ppl turning in.

[@SuchFinessse]

I’m 24- I got my permit at 15, my license by 16, and I’ve gotta say, I could not imagine waiting any longer. I’m so shocked at the number of kids scared of driving, because when I was growing up, all my peers wanted to get their license and drive to school and have their own cars. Sure, it’s a big responsibility, but all of us understood the importance of learning to drive. Some places, you don’t have to drive.

[@unicornpaintings]

I'm 15 and I'm terrified to drive I also do absolutely nothing but go to school so I also don't feel a need to learn

[@mptoast4061]

@@unicornpaintings It’s better to conquer your fear and learn earlier than later. It will help you become a better driver. I learned at 15 and have been driving for ten years now

[@Jadenespinosa]

I was in a horrific car wreak with my family causing my mother to be in critical condition 2 days before my 16th birthday, after the accident I wasn't able to go into a car without losing my breath until I was nearly 18. Now 20 I just earned my permit and going to drive soon after working through the trauma and fear. Sometimes everyone's circumstances may be different, especially going through an event at the age your supposed to start driving, some people just need some time to get over a fear or a traumatic event like mine. It's sometimes best to wait than shut down on the road over the fear causing to drive recklessly.

[@vhrjames]

it's probably just the video making it seem worse because i could not wait to drive and all my friends got their license when they turned 16

[@LilXancheX]

@@unicornpaintings same. Just go to school and go back home

[@suhly]

If teens could walk to the places they wanted to go, you wouldn't need to drive. Sadly, there is no other way to get anywhere in the suburbs. 💯

[@seanthe100]

I could walk while living in the suburbs, driving is superior though

[@delilahispeachyfresh2835]

Right!!

[@Walker-ow7vj]

I mean you can still just ride a bike around the suburbs

[@GolemDude]

@@Walker-ow7vj It’s too dangerous to bike, so everyone drives

[@missfortune8553]

That’s laughable. Try being in a dense mountain forest where everything is an hours car ride away minimum. Walking? Forget it. If I lived in civilization you couldn’t stop me from walking places. I’m almost 24. My parents refused to teach/ or give me to tools to get going. I’m terrified, isolated, and infantilized and they still refuse. I want to leave. I live in a very rural underdeveloped state, everything is an hour away minimum and I live in dense forest with terrible phone signals. There’s no way I could walk to driving school everyday. This is miserable. Being alive isn’t living.

[@veziculorile]

Driving sucks it's much nicer to live car free. New urbanism is promoting car free cities as opposed to the urban sprawl many Americans live in that causes car dependency.

[@pysiux7371]

Couldn't wait to get my license as a teen! My highschool sweetheart helped me practice and once surprised me by playing the song from Rocky while I was attempting to parallel park. I almost hit the parked car in front from laughing so hard! 🤣 20+ years later and I'm still parking like a champ 😎🏆 no problem with kids opting out. Let's get the adults who shouldn't be driving off the road!

[@lidelse666]

i love comments like these, that’s such a wonderful memory

[@mysteriousmusicx]

Sound like a Facebook mom 😂

[@merucrypoison296]

HIGHSCHOOL SWEETFART

[@Early90sBabyEnt.]

I am 30, and I could care less. I never will get my license.

[@lancethomas5701]

@@Early90sBabyEnt.yikes

[@SomethingSomethingg]

Another strange aspect of American culture: the idea that you MUST have a license. In most other developed countries you can easily get around without one.

[@ilikecinema1234]

We must expand the carbon footprint as much as possible!

[@MasonJarGaming]

I’m surprised by how few comments about urbanism this video has. Took me five minutes of scrolling just to find this one.

[@ninjireal]

uh yeah it’s the reason it’s America and not “other developed countries”

[@taiguy53]

I'm 20, and I don't have my license. I'm mostly afraid to go on the road in fear of crashing or making a mistake. My parents have been trying to encourage me to get on the wheel, but they want me to practice using their cars, and that just adds to the pressure because I don't want to potentially damage their vehicles. I do want the freedom to be able to go anywhere I want and whenever, but that fear is a hindrance. Edit: I'm 21 now and got my adult license. I still don't have my own car as of now, so I do still carry the fear of crashing or making mistakes. For those who struggle to get themselves behind the wheel, it helps tremendously to have someone especially calm and patient with you. Have them take you to a parking lot; the more empty, the better. That way, you can practice and get a feel of the car while going only as slow as 5-10 mph, and you don't have the pressure of slowing traffic on regular roads. Just take your time from there, get a feel of how soft/hard you have to press the gas to accelerate and brake. Get a feel of the steering wheel and how the car turns and how wide. You can even practice parking. Once you're comfortable and confident enough, you can promote yourself to driving around residential areas, and eventually highways. Most importantly, just be patient with yourself and applaud yourself for having the courage to get behind the wheel in the first place.

[@candlestixsmixedwithtrixs]

I understand you too, I’m your age as well and I have my license but I refuse to drive in the fear of someone else crashing into me and killing me.

[@richardmorrisproductions8151]

Me too I have my license but I don’t drive

[@danielszanto4738]

First time riding a bike is scary. Practice somewhere safe and away from traffic.

[@stanleysantos8422]

You're gonna make mistakes and potentially get into an accident, but that's part of learning to drive. Take a driver's education course, and they'll teach you everything you need to know about driving, plus they'll let you get behind the wheel and teach you hands on before you take your driver's exam. Good luck 👍

[@jasmineh.3002]

I have seizures so my fear is a lot more...extreme. But you can start simple. Take a drivers Ed course. To me they were 50x less stressful than family members. And it helps that there's tons of stickers and signs in the car saying you're a student driver. If it wasn't for thr driving courses, I know I would be waaaay more freaked out than I already am. But I do have a license in case there is an emergency. Having a license doesn't mean you have to drive. Just means you're able to in case there's an emergency.

[@MrStark-up6fi]

For me, I don’t really feel like driving because public transport just seems much better, especially in Europe and Asia where it’s very advanced

[@Priscilla-Prancercise]

Wow, this is really weird. The last thing I wanted to do at age 16 was ride around with my parents.

[@DavidKen878]

It's not weird, it's sad.

[@MisonoMika1]

believe me, I drive with my parents whenever I'm behind the wheel and what my mother does is backseat driving, which made me almost regret my decision to get my license

[@seanluzdeluna8153]

@@DavidKen878 How's it sad?🤨🧐 They're your parents. Besides, there's also the option of hitching rides with friends, neighbors, older siblings, aunts, uncles, boyfriends/girlfriends etc. Not to mention all the rideshare options like Uber and Lyft.

[@nychris2258]

​@@seanluzdeluna8153 Anything to avoid responsibility

[@DavidKen878]

@@seanluzdeluna8153 Its sad because this new generation is so weak. You're overly sensitive, literally everything offends you, and now you're scared to drive.

[@jaylopybrooks16]

I’m 27 and at 18 I COULD NOT WAIT to start driving. Yes I felt anxiety yet anxious at the same time to learn and get behind the wheel like a majority of novices. I’ll never forget when I asked an older woman if it was hard learning how to drive, she said “It’s not hard at all-as long as you pay attention.” That’s all I needed to know.

[@fabienzaca]

How long before you got on the freeway or highway? That's driving but amped up a few notches.

[@dbclass4075]

​@@fabienzaca Although highway driving has a slightly more controlled condition than city driving. The caveat is higher speeds mean less margin for error.

[@laurenhathaway496]

@@fabienzaca ll😊

[@strugglingcollegestudent]

@@fabienzacamy advice for highway driving is start learning on the weekends in the morning/early part of the day that way you have less traffic to deal with and very few crazy drivers compared to like a Thursday night

[@stupidkitty84]

​@@george9686 That's cap. You have to be at least 25 to drive a bus, let alone getting the required license for operating a bus.

[@mylifeasateenager6736]

As an almost 18 year old I wish I got my learners permit at 15 and then my license at 16! It definitely would have helped a lot.

[@thedevilhimself6557]

Just cause you get your license doesn't mean you can drive. Unless you can comfortably drive in any hand position, park anywhere that your car can fit in, and know the distance between your car and others such as double parkers, then you can't drive.

[@lavonnealexander6936]

Their is a lot people with a license who don’t know how to drive

[@bubzilla6137]

I've been driving regularly since I was 14. I'm 40 now and still very much enjoy it. I'm way more conservative and safe now though. I don't drive aggressively like I used to. People told me I'd get sick of it by the time I was 30, but they were wrong. I'm glad I learned on a manual transmission too because now I can drive almost any vehicle. I agree with the mom who said driving is a very valuable skill to have. However, I also think any teen who really doesn't want to drive shouldn't be forced to learn...

[@04angelbydeath]

14!?!?!?

[@so12productions]

​@@04angelbydeath back then the legal age to drive was younger according to my parents.

[@bubzilla6137]

@@04angelbydeath Yes. It wasn't legal though. I got pulled over on my first day because I was struggling to move from a stop on an incline. The officer made me park my car and he gave me a ride home. It was only 2 or 3 miles away so I walked back later today night and drove the car back home. He didn't even give me a ticket. 🙂

[@bubzilla6137]

@@so12productions Back then, it was 1996 and the legal age for a permit where I live was 15½ and 16 for actual license. I wasn't legal to drive at all, but circumstances at the time were such that I got to drive. I never got a valid license until I was 18 because of all the infractions in the first few years. I kept getting suspended before I even had a chance to get a valid license. Half of the times I was pulled over it wasn't even for moving violations. It was often for a burnt out light or a cracked window or something like that. They would stop me, only then learn I was suspended and the ticket would get me suspended even longer. That's the jist of it anyway. Edit: typo

[@so12productions]

@@bubzilla6137 oh wow!

[@greenman1116]

I’m 24 & cannot relate to this. I remember being 16 & getting my license and the feeling was insane.

[@BarryHallsack04]

Facts I’m 18 and I couldn’t wait to drive whenever I wanted

[@dangercat9188]

I'm 27 and still can't drive lmao.

[@missfortune8553]

I’m almost 24. My parents refused to teach/ or give me to tools to get going. I’m terrified, isolated, and infantilized and they still refuse. I want to leave. I live in a very rural underdeveloped state, everything is an hours car ride away minimum and I live in dense forest with terrible phone signals. There’s no way I could walk to driving school everyday. This is miserable. Being alive isn’t living. Uber is an option, I suppose. But I don’t have $500-$600 to drop on every ride.

[@BarryHallsack04]

@@missfortune8553They don’t have the right to keep you there. I’d get Uber set up first and then build on that. If you can get a cheap car off of Craigslist or something with a decent job then you can just rent somewhere else.

[@JDarkAngeI]

Same. Ever since a kid, always looked forward to being old enough to drive.

[@twgok3162]

It's ridiculous that in America in order to get anywhere u have to drive or get a driver no matter if ur sick, tired or drunk. Most other countries u could reliably take public transport safely or walk to most places

[@Sussex192]

Don't forget America is BIG. Australia, too, is the same. (which is where I live) In the moment, it is 50kms to get to basic shops, 150kms if you want anything other then the basics. You certainly can't walk that, and while there is one bus a day, you couldn't get there and home again by public transport. The USA is pretty much the same in many cases.

[@cesarm3218]

That's not a good excuse for the infrastructure to prioritize cars over people. It's very much a conscious political choice that continues to be supported. It has nothing to do with the size of the country, but more about the size of the wallets of politicians that enable this atrocity.

[@ale_yuki2263]

I got my license at 20. I knew how to briefly drive before but since I didn't go out often, I didn't find a need to get it. It's scary at first, you'll always bear the risk of crashing or losing control of your car, but it feels good to drive. You get to listen to music, sing along, carpool, go on road trips and just gain more experience. Driving isn't for everybody, but it never hurts to try. I'm afraid of heights so sometimes I'm scared to get on the freeway, but I'll get there eventually. Take everything at your own pace, don't stress.

[@brittanyburnam9893]

It’s ok y’all, don’t freak out. I didn’t get a license until I was 28. I didn’t drive in high school and when I went to college, we had a bus system, I moved to DC and I took the train. I moved back to Houston, I knew I needed a car. I was scared, but I signed up for lessons (yes, I was taking lessons with teenagers lol) but ultimately the real test was my learning to drive because I had no choice but to get in my car and drive off for an emergency. Please if you’re a teen, don’t feel bad, even if you’re in your early 20s. Take your time, learn how to drive, and don’t rush to get an expensive car. It might also help to wait until you get a stable job for car insurance and a car note

[@andrewcruz3837]

Im 28 and dont have mine. I failed the writtem test 5x. Plus my anxiety I don’t trust ppl on the road too

[@vce.john1734]

I didn’t got my driver license until I’m 21 now it been 1 year of having it but I a lot ever since I got my car which also 1 year ago.

[@J.J.Redick]

28 is ridiculous don’t encourage others do to that

[@lexdadominator2.096]

​@@J.J.Redick It doesn't matter. Everyone goes at their own pace

[@brittanyburnam9893]

@@J.J.Redick I didn't encourage anyone to do anything

[@thomash7294]

00:31 “a key step towards independence”. In America it is,where everything is designed for cars and not for people to walk, cycle, and everything else.

[@DavidKen878]

So to fix that issue cities should be designed where everything is within a 1 mile radius?

[@isaactwine]

This is true.

[@isaactwine]

​@@DavidKen878 Probably making more safe sidewalks and bike lanes so people can use another source of transport for free.

[@DavidKen878]

@@isaactwine But those things aren't stopping people from getting around? Seriously, who's saying they can't get to where they need to go because the sidewalks aren't safe?

[@seanthe100]

Before I had my license I did all of the above with no problem, driving is superior though

[@goofytuna6077]

Got my license when I was 18 because I was lucky to be able to walk to school. I was excited at first but it eventually becomes a chore. I would be fine if I never had to drive again, but as an adult it is a necessary part of life in most of America.

[@bubgerkirg]

For me, I was homeschooled and had no friends at that age. There was no point in spending all that money getting licensed (not to mention insurance + gas) when I had nowhere to go and nobody to see. I feel confident behind the wheel now after driving to work every day, but it took me a long time to even care. I would guess a major factor determining if a kid will opt out vs. eagerly await getting licensed is whether or not they have friends.

[@iiCounted-op5jx]

brutal, u explained it perfectly, I'm 18 and ion really have friends (at least not ones with the same interests as me) so I don't really have any motivation to get my license

[@sunisii]

I’m 16 and the only thing I’m terrified of about driving is taking the test. I’m not the one to perform well under pressure and it scares me, but I do want to be able to drive eventually. I have a 19 year old brother who hasn’t even gotten his permit yet and relies on our mother to take him everywhere, which is hard in college when you have places to be.

[@alexkizer639]

Depending on where you live the test is usually not that bad. I’m in Illinois. When I took it (about ten years ago) the computer part was so easy it was silly (like what do you do at a red light, what is the shape of a stop sign) and I just had to drive around the block and I think I made a small mistake or two. Just relax and do it and if you fail you can retake it again later.

[@bandit8433]

Where I live you can omit the behind the wheel driving test if you have fully completed your learners permit driving log hours before getting the license.

[@shebella4561]

Think positive and you will do fine! Study the book and especially go on KZbin to take practice written tests.

[@reclaimer405]

The test is really not that hard you just have to practice. I promise I was in the exact same situation as you procrastinating due to fear of failing, and when I eventually did the test it was a piece of cake. You have to practice though

[@FbllTwins]

I had a hard time too but taking deep breaths during the test helped me pass it.. take your time and don't rush

[@beautyfrompainxxx]

I didn’t get my license until I was around 19. I’m 23 now and I’m so grateful I learned to drive. It’s a form of independence that I’m so thankful for and now I can’t imagine having people drive me around, I just feel so uncomfortable not being the one in control of the vehicle.

[@sparklesupreme8170]

I also had bad anxiety. My mom screamed at me when I messed up, but now I'm good! It takes time but you will get over your fear.

[@evoevannismo8141]

I'm 22 years old and man when I was a teenager my twin brother and I kept begging our parents when it's time for us to drive and get our license. We had smartphones too and Uber was already a thing. It was scary when we first learned how to drive especially with our dad when he almost had little to no patience hints why we had our older brother take over teaching us due to him having more patience. Now that I live out of state, I don't have to worry about being told to watch out or anything like that because I have no one telling me to do that.

[@_.WildMoonChild]

I didn't get my license until 3 years ago... as someone with high anxiety and a brother who died in a car accident around the time we turned 16... I was wayyyy too scared to be behind a wheel. I was worried I'd change someone's lives the way our lives were changed. I didn't fear for me or my safety. I feared for the safety of others, and I didn't want to be the cause of something horrific. Obviously, I am so glad I have my license now, but at the time, waiting was the right choice for me. 😊

[@jenniferhansen3622]

I'm so sorry about your brother. I just can't imagine what you must have gone through. You definitely did the right thing by waiting until you felt safe. 😢

[@SeanChae702]

I got my learners permit at 15, and my license at 16. It was definitely a rite of passage back then, and a symbol of freedom. My Dad was very proud of me at the DMV, and I showed all my friends my license in the cafeteria. It was also scary at first, but I was able to improve as a driver and drive myself to school and work.

[@davidbautista4690]

Fr I was 15 And finished the class before 15 1/2

[@willc5723]

Don’t you have to be at least 16 to get the DJ permit or is it different in every state?

[@SeanChae702]

@@willc5723 Might be different in every state.

[@Atarian1979]

Driving is a privilege not a right of passage. I drove when I was able to pay for own car , insurance and gas.

[@anthonycantu1520]

i’m 20 and have been driving since I was 16. Initially yes it can be a little scary getting behind the wheel but delaying getting a license doesn’t help anything. You’re eventually gonna need it so might as well get it ASAP and those fears will go away within a year,

[@jaymoney5577]

I couldn’t imagine waiting so long to get your license it’s just a confidence boost when your independent in that area soon as I could I went for it at 17-18

[@williepearl278]

When I was 16, way back in 2002 I had no desire to get my license either. Of course my experience was a bit different, I didn’t care about having a license because I didn’t care about going anywhere. My parents were never home so I didn’t need to escape from them and I had friends that drove so if I did want to go somewhere they came and got me.

[@williepearl278]

@@JuneBug_87 That’s too funny. Those were some of my favorite shows😂.

[@Meilk27]

when 2002 is "way back" ugh

[@missfortune8553]

I wish.

[@-simplicity7551]

@@Meilk27 I was 16 in 2014, and kids now call that “way back” 😭

[@misterjwestcoast]

I was 16 in 2002, honestly I feel like it was last year.

[@shire69420]

It's not about how you drive, it's about how other people drive.

[@deez_bulletz]

Im the same way honestly. I will be 30 this year and I've never drove on the actual road. I've moved the car and such. In the last 6 months I've started taking more interest in learning to drive. My current situation is finding open areas that you can practice and get the feel of a vehicle.

[@AllyCat-ux1em]

Just go for it honestly, you can’t learn until you start driving like everyone else. I went in the freeway the second day I ever started driving.

[@soulfullportrait147]

I’m almost 29 and just got my license… driving anxiety is real and can be severe. The last thing you want is a nervous new driver on the road!

[@wereldvanriley7]

I can kind of relate to this. My brother didn't get his driver's license until he was 25. He was introverted and didn't go out much during his teen years, and he did do a course on it in high school but never continued with it. He finally decide to get his license when he was about to graduate college and get a job. I think driving is an ecential skill and can give you independence and privacy, but you should definitely do it when you're mature and ready. In fact, I applaud teens who realize that they aren't ready yet. Too many people these days think their ready and end up losing their license because of poor choices on the road

[@michellecox1933]

My son is an 18 year old high school senior and started driving on his own a couple of months ago. He wasn't ready at 16 and that's okay, I wasn't going to push him into driving.

[@moonheartsky]

having fewer 16 year olds on the road can’t be a bad thing 🤣

[@Unica655]

Everyone who was "scared" to get it at 16 is pathetic. Grow up.

[@erinhuggins1779]

I didn't learn to drive until I was 24 and I don't regret a thing. They have a reason to be worried about driving, it's not just your driving you need to watch it's every other driver to. They can drive when their ready and confident enough to get behind the wheel. And most importantly that there has to be some to teach them properly how.

[@Eric_Bassett]

sure but the thing is at 24 when you first got your DL, other 24 year olds who started driving at 16 already had almost a DECADE of experience. By 22 I had already driven cross country with friends for fun just because we could. Compared to a brand new 24 year old driver with zero experience in traffic, weather, and etc. I mean everyones life set up is different and as a suburban kid I had no choice. You had to drive to get anywhere where i grew up which is night and day compared to an inner city experience where public trans may be available. But at the end of the day.. that time/experience you lost by waiting is something you can never get back. Like with ANY other skill, the younger you start the more time you have to get better.

[@user-ok8yq6nc6x]

​@@Eric_Bassett It doesn't really matter, it takes very little actual skill to drive

[@Human1136]

@@user-ok8yq6nc6x except you have anxiety IE sweaty hands, fear of accidents.. not knowing how to reverse park or reverse in general... the awkwardness of steering wheel and getting a grip on it in order to maneuver...etc.

[@InfiniteTony]

@@Eric_Bassett Driving's not that difficult dude lmao everyone does it, you just gotta know the signs honestly

[@Harv3st]

This is really suprising, I am 24 and I remember wanting to drive so bad. Once you drive, its like a new world is totally opened up for you. You get so much freedom to go when and where you want. Learning to drive changed everything for me. It felt like I was truly a child before I could drive. I also live in a very rural area, so that could be it too.

[@bill4514]

I mean for what it's worth most suburban teens don't have much within bike/walking distance but I'm sure the rural part effects it

[@citizen565]

Nah if you live in a rural area you still don't know how to drive 😂😂😂 try a 9 million city traffic and then we talk

[@Saturnia2014]

​@@citizen565 I get their sentiment, but yeah, driving in the country is a cakewalk compared to driving in a major city

[@starrinight6114]

nah im good

[@Harv3st]

@@citizen565 I am a CDL driver, so I've been everywhere lol. Drove a 53 foot trailer in the Bronx. But I agree, most people out here don't know how to drive.

[@bobbyavitia]

This is what happens in a world where the main thing the media tells them is how they could be in danger. Danger exists but can be mitigated with some common sense. Driving is dangerous but that's why you take the responsibility to practice safety.

[@JuniorBloxHD]

i'm opting out because i hate cars

[@MaxRamos8]

Yes brother! Screw Cars and the capitalists who made cities for cars and not humans!

[@allergy5634]

Based + orangepilled

[@773Garage]

i feel bad for you

[@snowrocket]

WHY do you "hate cars"? There's a worthwhile conversation to be had there.

[@JuniorBloxHD]

@@snowrocket clunky, inefficient, dangerous

[@nickl.4168]

23 and never learned to drive, honestly in New York there’s no need. No regrets!!!

[@kalanatorres845]

But it always good to have a car even if you live in a transportation state. I grew up in Boston and relied on transportation for years then moved to Florida and it hit me, having a car is important and it’s never too late

[@-clipz-]

God Bless turn to God. You should also read and spread the Gospel. God Bless you and your family. Repent and accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior who died on the cross for our sins. Turn to the Lord ask for forgiveness and sin no more. Thanks, Faith, Trust, Love, Focus in God. Trust and have faith in God’s plan. Don’t use Gods name in vain or call yourself and worship other Gods for it is a sin. Repent for all your sins even one’s you may not know and ask God to show you those sins. I am nothing without God and his Goodness. Foul language is also a sin. Praying for you.

[@terrencecarter1915]

​@@kalanatorres845 Yeah, Live in San Francisco From Middle School until mid 30's. Even if you don't get a car, it is good to have a license just in case of emergencies.

[@user-kx5fb1nv4t]

me either. lol

[@anthonyaviles1]

I’m glad you’re being responsible then

[@nutmeg1029]

I was terrified at 16 to be driving anywhere. But this was before Uber and these delivery apps. My parents went slow with me, yet persistant.

[@RenegadesCS]

and thats how it should go, i was on the same boat. That doesn't mean I'm not going to drive. Not learning to drive will only negatively effect the teens of tomorrow who won't have parents to teach them.

[@moniquewrites9046]

And I’m terrified to get an Uber that’s not an Uber black and that’s expensive so

[@illestvillain1971]

@@moniquewrites9046 what's an Uber black?

[@snowrocket]

"Terrified"? Why? Who convince you to be so scared?

[@androgynous_artist]

Just got my license at 18. I don’t think this video considered how much covid plays a part in the thought process teens had/have behind waiting. Fear of being in an accident ofc plays a major role in the thought process too, I won’t deny that.

[@ilovesuga22]

im 17 and i got my permit (passed it the first time!) a few days before i turned 17. even though i have it and i’ve practiced driving a few times it still makes me nervous, so i understand where they’re coming from. but also at one point our parents won’t be there to drive us around and we have to step up and do it ourselves.

[@BriaBri]

I’m 20 and this is exactly how I feel, especially in a state that’s notorious for crazy drivers. I was practicing one day with my father and I had hit the back of someone’s car on accident. I balled my eyes out in the back seat even though I didn’t even dent the lady’s bumper 😭 The only damage done was to my car with a shattered headlight. She was very nice though and told me accidents happen especially with someone who is just learning to drive. But ever since then I haven’t been practicing as much.

[@mariojr8661]

Foo get behind the wheel

[@fearson7831]

Keep practicing don’t let fear take control of you

[@mariojr8661]

@@fearson7831 err haha

[@abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwyxz102]

everyone in this comment section is a bot. no doubt.

[@BriaBri]

@@fearson7831 yea I’m starting to get back into it slowly but surely

[@BennyTheAzn]

I was never interested in driving in high school, but I understood the importance of having a license just in case. Of course I was nervous and scared, but I was 23 or 24 when I first got my license. It's not too late!

[@greengreens6347]

Is it hard to learn? Or is it a lot easier than it looks?

[@BennyTheAzn]

@@greengreens6347 It's definitely not hard to learn! What I suggest is getting your permit first, and practice with someone in an empty parking lot late at night or on an empty road. Books can only tell you so much. You will have to get hands on experience to really grasp it. Just remember, it's okay if you mess up. Everyone does!

[@webguy943]

We all got nervous n scared the first time. Practice practice practice. Drive in an empty parking lot. Learn the rules n signs. Its all based on common sense.

[@mienafriggstad3360]

My daughter is in a similar situation. She is 18.5; she has mid-high functioning Autism. She has her learners drivers license and keeps practicing. Thankfully she knew how to drive well enough to drive me to and from the hospital emergency room; in October; after I crushed my fingers in the lawnmower. She keeps practicing driving.🤞

[@leoncaples2947]

I feel a bit better about being 22 and not have a driver's license yet.

[@averagebum7449]

Besides having to pay for a bunch of stuff if you get a car, having the ability to is important and easy. When I first started I was nervous and scared but if you're taught well and you know the rules, it's fairly easy. Just don't get too distracted and you're good. Plus you might discover a new pass-time of driving around for fun

[@alberttrudeau1756]

Having spent my teenage years in a rural area in a small town, most of us in high school NEEDED to have our licenses before graduating highschool just to be able to go anywhere, since there's basically no public transportation.

[@Walker-ow7vj]

I love how being independent in this generation means to be dependent on others to drive you and get you food

[@AfroCycle]

frfr

[@tacobell1299]

Have you seen drivers now days? It's scary

[@gbecks3672]

Seriously 😂

[@okamijubei]

Do I sense jealousy?

[@PepeLaRana1]

@@tacobell1299people have always driven bad, just drive bro you can’t avoid it because you’ll regret it one day

[@missgigglebox748]

There is nothing wrong with teens taking their time to get behind the wheel. To me, they know the responsibility it takes to drive a car and how scary it can be for someone that age and if they aren't ready then they shouldn't be pushed into it.

[@I1ght961]

Yeah it should be their decision. I think though some people just don’t want to because they don’t like the process. I have a cousin 16 who doesn’t want to get a linense and he drives. Some people see taking those tests as something scary I guess.

[@RenegadesCS]

@@I1ght961 your cousin knows that if he get's pulled over, by law, he has to go to jail for not having a license right? Officers discretion can save you a trip to the slammer, but even then, it's a super pricey ticket. Best of luck to lil homie🤣

[@MorganaBoss]

Heck, I’m 22, going to be 23 next month. I’m practicing driving and take it on from there. I was scared at first when I first did cuz I didn’t know what to do then, but now look at me I’m becoming better & better!!!

[@alexahndrxx]

Driving is so fun idk how anyone would not want to

[@BeesKneesBenjamin]

I always felt really bad as a teen constantly asking everyone to give up a chunk of their time to drop me off and pick me up. As soon as I could do my lessons and get my license, I got it the day after I turned 18 (legal driving age here). Till this day, I am so so thankful my family to sponsor my lessons, they truly bought me my independence.

[@jj-ce8bb]

Somewhere in the future I'mma ride a motorcycle

[@bubblelady8528]

for me it has nothing to do with that. im scared to operate a 3000 pound hunk of metal

[@BeesKneesBenjamin]

@@bubblelady8528 Yknow, that 3000 pound hunk of metal DOES have airbags and stuff

[@kennzfrenzy]

​@@BeesKneesBenjamin ppl still get super hurt though in crashes😭

[@BeesKneesBenjamin]

@@kennzfrenzy I mean, whether you're behind a wheel or someone taking you somewhere... I much prefer getting hurt on my own rather than someone else getting hurt for the fact I refused to get a license...

[@ryuunakano7786]

I didn't get my license until I was 21 and I am glad that I waited. Driving in the city is insane as it is and with everything that I already had going on in my life when I was younger, I just didn't feel like I was in the appropriate mental place to be behind a wheel. Also, it was incredibly hard, even at an older age, to find driving classes that worked for me (my first few instructors where terrible people who should not have been teaching) and my parents were not always readily available. I got into a few accidents and, if I had been younger, I believe I never would have gotten over my driving anxiety at that time and probably never would have went behind the wheel again. I still think having your license is important and you should get it by a certain time but I don't think its the end of the world if you do not want to get it when your 16.

[@kevin6218]

I think the reason why is that now days young people don’t necessarily need to drive since the advancement of public transportation. Most teens I knew who get their license asap were either car enthusiasts like me or at least enjoy driving somewhat.

[@gameaddict-9873]

I’m 18 and have my drivers license but I still refuse to buy a car to drive. I rather take my e-scooter to pick up groceries, buy fast food, and other activities.

[@gameaddict-9873]

I use my license as an id

[@TheCoDDmast3r]

I'm 28 and still don't have a license. A number of factors played into why I don't have one. I'll get around to getting it one day. I even have a friend that doesn't drive, his wife drives him everywhere.

[@BKME19]

Sad about your friend having his wife drive him around everywhere. This is taking advantage of her time due to his dependency on something like him refusing to drive.

[@TheCoDDmast3r]

​@@BKME19She doesn't seem to mind. He takes care of the house and they work together really well.

[@tacobell1299]

​@@BKME19its not sad

[@TerpLord710]

@@tacobell1299 No, it’s disgraceful. Be a man..

[@eggrollsoup]

@@TerpLord710 There’s nothing inherently masculine about driving.

[@tati7535]

I got my license when I was 16, and it was terrifying. I am 23 and I still don't feel comfortable driving in some areas.

[@alliechotikul1621]

i agree with her though! after covid, the roads seem to have gotten a bit scarier. people don’t know how to drive and it’s insane. ive been driving for years but still get a little anxious. it’s almost impossible to live in the states without a car and while uber and delivery services have aided in the lack of necessity for a car, the country just isn’t built like that.

[@roryleek1438]

I got my license at 16 but two years later and still nothing. I want to actually drive but I’ve had difficulties learning because of my dad. It’s important to have someone that’s patient and understating. I’m sure I’ll get it soon like everyone else.

[@purplequeen1727]

I'm 55 and it felt like forever waiting to get my license on the day I turned 16! It was rare not to have your license then. My first car was a stick shift. We have several cars and one of them is a stick shift but I prefer an automatic. I've always felt such freedom being able to drive. Times sure have changed! 😊

[@mannymm7887]

It’s also very expensive depending on the state you live in. Im not sure about other states but in CA if you’re under 18 you’re required to take driving courses by an accredited driving school which many people can’t afford. Why pay for all that when I can just wait until I turn 18 and I only pay the basic fees, nothing more.

[@fergy9king473]

I'm almost 18 and I think that learning to drive as early as possible is the best thing you can do, driving is a life skill and you really need to develop a responsible mindset while doing it. Doing it later on just seems too complicated.

[@nicholasmohr1619]

I know how it is. I was 12 driving my papas old beater 1989 Chevy S10 stick shift around in circles in his open half acre lot beside his house. To this day, I’m almost 19 and I still know how to drive a stick.

[@lesliegallegos97]

Literallyy I started driving at 15 and now I can drive with so much ease at 18

[@DivinityAwakened]

​@@lesliegallegos97 same. Now at 24 the car feels like an extension of myself. It takes zero effort to drive now that it's all muscle memory.

[@aqualms]

Learning yes, but actually driving often - no. Most that start driving early tend to have an irresponsible mindset while driving, even as they get older - at least in my personal experience. Having a healthy dose of fear of cars (and the damage they can do) is essential for responsible drivers - but most just do it for the fun aspect of it.

[@Butterrcuppp]

I’m 26. I was very anxious about driving and never chose or learned to do so. Now that I’m 26, it sucks not being able to drive. Also, it does seem like much more of a challenge. Now, if I want to learn, I don’t have my parents with me to teach me or drive with me, and I feel like now that I’ve waited until 26, I may never get my license.

[@bobbyxsoxer]

I took driver's Ed at 14, got my permit at 16/17 cause I was scared to drive, got my license at 18, to this day I still don't drive unless it's absolutely necessary. I have never driven on the interstate and I probably never will. I'm 24 now and not driving hasn't crippled me nor do I think it will in the long term. There is Uber, lyft, public transportation (depending on where you live)

[@e.t6374]

15 is when got my permit and coming up on 16 for my license. Honestly i was scared but I realized that am becoming a adult and have to jump in to the world of becoming a independent. I have two loving parents that help me and teach me the small tips of driving safe.All I can say to any teenagers is it takes time, but with learning and driving everyday, it well just be like walking.

[@madeline8873]

as a 15 year old girl who already struggles with awful anxiety and homeschool because of it, driving absolutely terrifies me :(

[@VTXHobbies]

Skill issue

[@iiCounted-op5jx]

as someone who got stuck doing homeschool and has no friends because of the pandemic, I feel no pressure to get my license any time soon because what's the point lol

[@CreeseDF]

@@VTXHobbies 😂

[@Iris_Sunset]

I was in the exact same situation at 15 and I still hate driving and it’s absolutely terrifying to me because there’s so many rules to remember and I’m always thinking I’m gonna get in a crash and die. I didn’t even get my permit until I was almost 17 because of anxiety and I still don’t have my license

[@davidshore3523]

My 27 yr old daughter still don't have her license. She states it's because how crazy the other drivers appear.

[@SebasL10]

Just get your license before 18 don’t pass up…… literally an emergency is a real thing……

[@Cruzinator4500]

I got my permit at 16, license at 17, but didn’t start officially driving until I was 21. I didn’t feel comfortable getting behind the wheel as a teenager. While I somewhat regret not driving until 21, I’m 24 now and I feel that I drive better than most people I know, and feel a lot more comfortable driving far distances and on the highway. People should drive once they feel comfortable to. You’re handling a 3-5,000 lb vehicle, having to look straight in front of you and at your sides simultaneously, and also be aware of what’s going on ahead of you. It’s something that should be taken on once someone has shown they can be completely responsible.

[@ariamuses]

With all the traffic incidents being uploaded for the world to see, I understand the hesitation and zero-desire to drive. I'm nearly 30 and I drive my teenage family members everywhere. They're definitely of-age to drive and it does get frustrating at times to rearrange my schedule to drive them around, but I cannot deny the possible consequences of driving that scare them. I am not one to push, but I am one to encourage at one's own pace. It is comforting to know that this issue is not just present with my younger family members.

[@JudelovesRiver12]

I’m 27 and I have an extreme fear of driving. Since I was a toddler I’ve had reoccurring dreams of me being in a car, it starts driving and I don’t know what to do. I still have these dreams but they’re a little different now. Now I’m stuck in the middle of town with the car all alone and have to find my way home. This was all because in the 90s my parents thought it was ok to leave me and my little brother alone in a running car while they went into the gas stations and stores.

[@nothx512]

Google maps and other maps apps helps...its not the 1990s

[@illestvillain1971]

I used to have the exact same recurring dream. Me and my brother would jack a car and start driving and the break wouldn't work and the gas was stuck to the floor and I'd go down a hill trying to navigate barely seeing above the wheel. Other dreams happened differently they were more driving around trying not to get spotted as a child driving without a license or insurance. The reason I had those dreams is cause when I was a kid I would drive a bit. Grew up in the country my grandad let us loose driving. Definitely helped but also some lingering anxiety.

[@illestvillain1971]

Oh and speaking on the last thing. My mother forgot the handbrake one time with my sister in it. Car slowly rolled down the street into traffic. Some dude had to stop it and call her. Traumatic I imagine

[@AtomicHouse]

What a pansy

[@JudelovesRiver12]

@@illestvillain1971 wow that is wild! You made me remember I was hanging out with a kid younger than me when I was about 8-9. He hot wired the jeep we were playing in and drove a few meters.

[@CYB3R2K]

Meanwhile I'm 34 male, I've never driven a car and probably never will...

[@lanlan3806]

Just do it

[@Jamhael1]

Welcome to the club - 37, never had a car or learned to drive. Too costly.

[@ClementineFrances-pm3kf]

I mean, if you don’t gotta, you don’t gotta.

[@jeffmorse645]

I'm sorry, this is not meant to be insulting, but I can't even imagine that. How to you function as an adult? Go to work, run errands, go on a date or be social? I can see getting away with it in some cities like New York, San Francisco or Chicago, but not anywhere else to speak of.

[@CYB3R2K]

@@jeffmorse645 I don't

[@MyEpiphany_92]

I'm now 30 and still scared of driving! I'm having difficulty getting over my anxiety..I've never driven a vehicle because I don't know how to drive. I'm willing to learn, and my husband has been pushing me to learn it's just that my anxiety is always in the way...😔☹️

[@pricelessppp]

Usually it’s women that push men to learn to drive women hate men that don’t drive.

[@HoloScope]

You’ll get there, just small steps! Don’t think of the entire thing, just take it one step at a time! I started by going forwards and reversing in my driveway. And then I drove in a straight line in my neighborhood. Then I turned on a stop sign. Then I kept driving around the neighborhood. Soon enough I was decently comfortable with it.

[@LongNight_Moonlight]

I decided not to get my license at 16 because I realized I would just be my family's errand girl if I did. I'm also a really introverted homebody so there aren't many place I want / need to travel to and never have the urge to just leave my house unless there's a reason because I'd rather be reading.

[@user-ev9ib1zs2f]

I got my license at 16 and I’m currently 19 and getting sued $75,000 for a minor accident that happened when I was 16. I feel like taking the responsibilities of driving and consequences really added so much stress and took away the freedom I’ve had before.

[@ellis20022]

i was so excited to learn to drive when i was younger and then i had an accident(not major, but my dad tore me up over it for months even though it wasn't my fault.) and only got my license at 19 because i was moving cities and would have to drive myself. and i paid for drivers ed lessons because my parents wouldn't teach me. i barely drive now and im 21. it gives me really bad anxiety and im lucky i have a partner who loves driving

[@bravo_01]

Scared of driving a car? Wait until the reality of being an adult kicks in.

[@so12productions]

I'm afraid of that already and I'm not even 18 yet!

[@seanluzdeluna8153]

Driving anxiety is real bro!

[@pathania3377]

tbh there is a huge difference between countries ...... Here you will see people around 40-50 years old learning to drive....n it's okay here. A huge huge difference

[@QueenTJ1991]

When I was 18 years and old enough to get my driver's license, I chose not to for medical reasons. I have epilepsy and didn't want to risk having a seizure behind the wheel. Alot of people didn't understand my reasoning behind the decision except for my parents and other family members.

[@delilahispeachyfresh2835]

Damnn.. ur reason is quite different from others so it’s understandable if you don’t want to drive. But everyone else is looking at them kids like it’s crazy that they don’t wanna drive 😂

[@martinobunny1655]

Finally a valid reason other than “omg I can Uber eats my Starbucks for $30 on daddy’s credit card instead of driving all the way there myself”

[@nerdloser9987]

I'm also 18 and don't drive. To be fair I'm from NYC so I don't need one. Even my parents don't have a car so I don't even know where to begin. The only real problem is going to and from college outside the city without a car

[@QueenTJ1991]

@@nerdloser9987 I'm actually almost 32 years old. Some strangers that I see around my hometown in Maryland have issues with my decision not to get my driver's license. Some of them say that I'm lazy and stupid for not learning to drive.

[@reynasanchez138]

Do you have one now? I have the same issue

[@shadetree1175]

I completely support this. My sister is not good at driving and rarely gets behind the wheel. Try driving out. If it’s not for you that’s ok! Plenty of taxi services and delivery services these days to get what you need when family is unavailable to give you a ride.

[@allys744]

I’m a licensed driver and it’s nice to drive in familiar areas just to get out of the house. I’m very cautious about the road, but it’s always scary. Often times, I’m at a stop light and I know full well that it’s not safe to go, but the person in back of me always honks nonstop because they’re in a hurry. Ofc they’re impatient because they don’t have a clear view in front of the traffic like I do. I respect these kids for being patient and deciding when they’re good and ready.

[@thelonercoder5816]

I'm 25 and was pressured throughout my teen years - early adulthood to learn how to drive. Still have no license. I got an ebike instead 2 years ago and it was the best purchase I made. Gets me around the city and I enjoy how "in the moment" biking feels vs riding in a car. Makes me appreciate cities more.

[@mistyunderhill5719]

As a mom to it scary the cost is huge to have a sixteen year old behind the wheel.

[@ILovePlayingZeldaGamesOnSwitch]

I am 36yo and just learning how to drive. (I'm not from US) My parents didn't even thought of sending me to a driving school...it's frustrating not knowing how to drive at this age.

[@NatalieSBG]

As someone who started driving not very long ago, I definitely had no desire to drive but nonetheless I started with my parents and also took some driving lessons. I must say that if you take that step out of your comfort zone and don’t let the fear stop you, it gets a lot better.

[@redditstoriesfuny]

my left ear enjoyed this

[@maddy.doesart]

I’m 18 and initially I was terrified of driving. In reality, I was interested, but my fear kinda drove me away from driving (pun intended). Then I got a job over the summer last year and I had to start driving more often, and I have to drive to school, and now I feel so much more comfortable and free. It’s a great feeling. I still gotta work on the parkway though. But once you see the independence you get from driving, and how it isn’t actually that bad, you will feel so much better.

[@vce.john1734]

Yup I was the same when I first got my driver license my dad make me go to get car parts but I didn’t want to go but now I’m more comfortable of driving so now I go get whenever he needs to.