By God, it can be terrifying taking a driver's test if you have previously failed one or more of them! When I took my first test (in Toronto) there was no reason I should have failed it, because I was quite good at everything I needed to be good at, and fairly relaxed too...but...I missed ONE little detail, by not turning out of the left lane when turning left out of this dinky little one-way street! And the guy failed me!!! He also had me out there for a very long time before that happened. Why? I think they have an unofficial policy in Toronto to fail virtually everyone on the first driving test if they can possibly find a way to do it. My instructor was astounded that I had been failed on that test.

On my next test at the same location I was so nervous that I totally screwed it up...uncharacteristically. My instructor was again astounded. I always drove great with him in the car.

Well, I decided (after some thought) to arrange to take the next test NOT in the big city, but in a small town. This was simply arranged by applying for the test at a relative's address in the town.

Bingo! Passed it with absolute ease. Driving in Toronto is hellish, even for experienced drivers, but driving in a small town is a snap.

Consider making a similar arrangement if you have to...and practice your shifting in the empty grocery lots in the meantime until you've absolutely got it down pat.

Good luck!

- LH