Sweaty palms. Heart racing. Breathlessness. For a lot of people, getting behind the wheel makes their bodies really want to "fight or flight." A lot of people have driving anxiety, or amaxophobia, especially in places with a lot of traffic, like the Bay Area.

We want you to know two things if you've been putting off getting your license because you're scared:

1. Your fear is real.

2. It can be gotten over.

We at AAA Car Driving School in Santa Clara are experts at helping nervous drivers. This is how we turn fear into self-assurance.

The "Dual Control" Safety Net

Most nervous drivers are most afraid of "losing control" or hurting someone. This is where going to school with a friend is better than going to school with a professional.

There are two brakes on our cars. This means that the teacher has a brake pedal on their side. We have you covered if you freeze up, hit the gas instead of the brake, or don't see a car coming. Your brain can relax enough to learn when you know you have a safety net.

The exposure therapy method

We don't throw you into the deep end. We use a method that is similar to exposure therapy.

• Level 1: We begin in a big, empty parking lot. There are no other cars. It's just you, the car, and the controls. We'll stay here until you get bored. Being bored is a good sign because it means the fear is gone.

• Level 2: Quiet residential streets, like those around Pruneridge or Homestead. Wide lanes, low speed, few cars.

• Level 3: streets with more traffic and traffic lights.

• Level 4: The highway (only when you're ready).

You have already learned how to control the car at Level 1 by the time you get to Level 3, so your brain has less to worry about.

The Instructor's Mood Matters

It's often very stressful to learn from a spouse or parent. They might gasp, grab the dashboard, or scream "Watch out!" This makes your cortisol levels go up, which makes it impossible to learn. The people who teach us are trained professionals. They stay calm, talk in a low, reassuring voice, and give clear, early instructions. We make a "no judgment zone."

Stories of Success

We have taught kids who were in car accidents when they were young and were scared to drive. We have taught seniors who lost their spouse and had to learn to drive for the first time in their sixties. We have seen the change from fear to a smile when they finally get their license.

Don't let fear make your world smaller. You can do this. We can help you. Call AAA Car Driving School today and tell them you're a nervous learner. We'll put you in touch with our most patient instructor.