“Congratulations, you passed…!” my driving instructor said last February, with some hesitance. As I let out a sigh of relief I’d kept in since I got my permit, I felt shocked that I had passed my behind-the-wheel test. With only three months of driving experience, I had triumphed with only six marks off (big thanks to the Arleta DMV). As I reflected on my knowledge of being behind the wheel, I began to wonder: “Do I really deserve my license?” Here are five of the countless reasons why I honestly should not have my driver license. 

1. I didn’t know what the “blind spot” was until the weekend before my test.

During my third and (thankfully) last professional driving lesson with Viva Driving School, my instructor noted my jerky rush to look over my shoulder and explained that my blind spot is actually just a calm glance at the back door window—NOT the rear window, my initial thought. I mean, now I know, but before I would just look over the shoulder to show my nagging parents I deserve my license, not to actually check if there was a vehicle next to me. 

         2. My parents still don’t trust me to drive alone.

While I successfully passed my test on the first try, my parents forbade me from driving anywhere alone until I prove to them I’m ready for the gloomy roads of South Pasadena. Personally, I do believe I am a well-experienced driver, capable of anything, but until I pass their own DIY driving test, I can’t drive the two miles to Erewhon whenever I crave a Hailey Bieber Smoothie or do anything independent with my license.

         3.  I don’t enjoy yielding to pedestrians or cyclists 

Nothing frustrates me more when I see a pedestrian walking across while distracted by the phone or tiny, soon-to-be-roadkill Pomeranian. Having to wait an additional minute for somebody to slowly cross the road when I, too, have places to be makes me wish automobiles were the ones to always have the right of way. And don’t get me started on the cyclists. Having to share the road with cyclists who are invading my lane when I know they’re only here because they made a hasty New Year’s resolution infuriates me even more.

         4. My favorite place for people-watching is on the road.

While waiting at a red light, I’m always curious about the people surrounding me. I try to look through their windows to see who they are or guess what they’re talking about. Ultimately, I get so distracted by those around me that I frequently do not notice the light switching to green until cars start honking. But better to be aware of my surroundings than be distracted by my phone!

         5. I got four points marked off my test because I didn’t know my right of way. 

Imagine this: I’m pulling off the perfect driving performance during my behind-the-wheel test. But, on the last turn back into the DMV, the protected left turn arrow changed to yellow after only two seconds. I was unsure on what to do at first, but next thing I know I’m braking into the pedestrian crosswalk—I should have just turned left. But, I fast braked, blocked the walkway, and got honked at. As I waited for the longest light change in my life, I drove back into the DMV parking lot assuming the worst, but apparently I passed with only six marks. I’m not complaining, but I would think not knowing your right of way on the test would mean a failure!