What is amaxophobia?
Amaxophobia is an irrational or excessive fear of driving a vehicle. It can appear from the moment of first getting a licence or emerge after an accident, a long break from driving, or simply with age. It is estimated that 15 to 20% of drivers suffer from some form of driving-related anxiety.
Manifestations of driving fear
Symptoms vary between individuals: palpitations, sweating, a feeling of oppression, catastrophic thoughts, systematic avoidance of driving, refusal to drive on motorways or in cities. Some people even refuse to take their driving test because of this anxiety.
The most common causes
Fear of an accident
The most widespread cause is the fear of having an accident, especially in people who have already been involved in a road incident. This fear can also be linked to a tragedy experienced indirectly (an accident involving a close relative).
Fear of judgement
Many anxious drivers are afraid of driving badly, of inconveniencing others, of being honked at or criticised. This form of social anxiety can be paralysing at the very first crossroads or roundabout.
A long break from driving
After several years without driving (maternity leave, illness, moving to a city with public transport), it is common to feel strong apprehension when getting back behind the wheel.
Practical solutions
Refresher confidence courses
Some driving schools offer specific courses for anxious drivers or those returning to driving. These short courses (1 to 3 days) allow you to rebuild confidence progressively in a supportive environment, with an instructor trained in psychological support.
Psychotherapy and EMDR
For severe cases of amaxophobia linked to a traumatic event (serious accident), psychotherapy or EMDR sessions (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing therapy) can be effective.
How to get the right guidance?
DevisPermis.fr connects you with driving schools offering confidence-building and refresher courses. Describe your situation in the form and benefit from tailored support.
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How to get the right support?
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Frequently asked
Your questions on this topic
Why are we afraid to drive after the licence?
Amaxophobia (fear of driving) affects nearly 15 percent of French drivers according to an IFOP 2024 study. Causes: lack of practice after obtention, previous accident, generalised anxiety or loss of confidence. Fear often arises after 6 to 24 months without driving. Good news: 80 percent of cases resolve with 5 to 10 hours of progressive resumption supported by an instructor.
What tips to overcome anxiety at the wheel?
5 effective tips: 1) restart with short trips (5 to 10 minutes) in familiar areas, 2) drive with a kind relative as passenger, 3) avoid rush hours in early weeks, 4) prepare your route the day before to reduce surprises, 5) practice abdominal breathing 5 minutes before each departure. Average result: return to calm driving in 6 to 12 weeks.
Are there anti-stress driving courses?
Yes, driving resumption or anti-stress courses are offered by most driving schools since 2020. They last 5 to 20 hours depending on need, in individual lessons with a specialised instructor. The rate varies from 50 to 70 euros per hour, or 250 to 1,400 euros total. Some health insurers reimburse up to 200 euros under mental health prevention.
How to resume driving after a long break?
After more than 2 years without driving, plan 4 to 8 hours of refresher with a certified instructor. Start with 30 minutes in a car park, then quiet roads, then fast roads progressively. Key tip: never drive tired or stressed in the first 10 hours of resumption. A 2025 study shows 92 percent of drivers regain their original ease after 15 hours of regular practice.
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