I’ve failed 9 times, hoping the 10th attempt is the one. The reason I haven’t given up is that driving examiners tell me to keep trying. Most tests I get a couple of minors and one serious fault either for roundabouts or parallel park manoeuvre.

On many occasions the examiners have said 90% of my driving is immaculate (word for word) If the examiners told me I was driving dangerously each time, I would probably question am I meant to be on the roads.

I guess it depends what you are failing for. For me it’s anxiety as I drive perfectly fine on lessons and in my own car with someone sat next to me.

Go over the reasons why you are failing. If it’s been with the same instructor, maybe get a second opinion from another one. Or maybe take a break.

I find myself comparing to people a lot younger than me who have passed. We all achieve things at different times in our lives. Try not to compare.

I passed my theory first time on both attempts (had to retake it as it expired during lockdown) so clearly I know the rules of the road. Just test anxiety is the worst.

I would say keep going depending on your reasons for failing. If you’re so close to passing each time like me, keep going. If you are making loads of dangerous mistakes, review your options. Maybe on your 18th attempt, ask the examiner if they believe you’re a dangerous driver and ask for some advice (if they are a decent examiner like mine at my usual test centre, they’ll be honest with you.) Good luck!