Driving represents freedom and independence, yet for many people, just the thought of getting behind the wheel sparks overwhelming fear. Known clinically as driving anxiety, this condition affects thousands of people worldwide. Whether you’re newly licensed or a seasoned driver, the fear of driving — also called vehophobia or amaxophobia — can interfere with daily life, career opportunities, and personal independence.

If you’re struggling with driving phobia, you’re not alone. In this blog, we will explore the symptoms, causes, how to overcome fear of driving, and how to reclaim your confidence on the road.

What is fear of driving?

Fear of driving, or vehophobia, is an intense and persistent fear related to operating a motor vehicle. Some people are scared of driving altogether, while others experience anxiety only in specific situations — such as fear of driving on highways, fear of being in heavy traffic, or fear of driving over bridges. Driving phobia is not a formal diagnosis in the DSM-5, but it is commonly considered a form of specific phobia.

Although some level of caution while driving is healthy, driving anxiety goes beyond nervousness. It can cause individuals to avoid driving entirely or restrict their driving to extremely limited routes, significantly impacting quality of life. In some cases, people experience a panic attack while driving, making the situation even more distressing.

Symptoms of driving phobia

Symptoms of driving phobia can range from mild uneasiness to full-blown panic. Common signs include:

  • Rapid heartbeat, sweating, and shaking when thinking about driving
  • Intense dread or terror before getting into the car
  • Shortness of breath or chest tightness while driving
  • Feeling detached from reality (derealization) when on the road
  • Obsessive worrying about car accidents or getting lost
  • Avoidance of driving at all costs
  • Experiencing a panic attack while driving, often characterized by dizziness, nausea, and a feeling of losing control
  • Specific fears such as fear of driving on highways or fear of cars in general

These symptoms can occur before planning a road trip, during driving, or even days in advance when planning a journey.

What causes fear of driving?

Driving phobia or driving anxiety can develop for a variety of reasons. Understanding the root cause can be a powerful step in learning how to get over fear of driving. Some common causes include:

  • Previous car accidents: Being involved in a car crash, whether minor or major, can create long-lasting trauma.
  • Witnessing accidents: Even seeing a car accident happen can lead to fear responses associated with driving.
  • Anxiety disorders: People with generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder may be more prone to driving anxiety. In some cases, OCD may also play a role.
  • Lack of driving experience: New drivers may feel overwhelmed by all the responsibilities on the road.
  • Family influence: Growing up around parents who were nervous or critical drivers can instill fear from a young age.
  • Medical issues: Conditions like vertigo, vision problems, or heart conditions may trigger fear of losing control while driving.

Fear of driving and PTSD

For some individuals, fear of driving is closely linked to PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder). A car accident can be a traumatic event that leads to PTSD, characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance when driving or even thinking about driving.

In these cases, driving anxiety isn’t just fear — it’s a trauma response. Avoiding driving may temporarily ease distress, but over time, it can reinforce fear and make recovery more difficult. Signs that PTSD may be contributing to your fear of driving include:

  • Persistent, intrusive thoughts about past accidents
  • Intense emotional or physical reactions when passing accident scenes
  • Feeling numb, detached, or emotionally “flat” while driving
  • Hyperawareness and extreme caution to the point of impairment

For driving anxiety rooted in trauma or PTSD, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) may be helpful in reducing distress.

Tips for coping with fear of driving

While overcoming the fear of driving takes time and patience, many people find success through gradual exposure and coping strategies. Here are some practical tips for how to get over fear of driving:

  • Start small: Begin with short, familiar routes during times of light traffic.
  • Practice mindfulness: Breathing exercises and body-awareness techniques can be helpful before driving or during breaks.
  • Use a support system: Bring a trusted friend or family member along for early practice sessions.
  • Practice positive visualization: Imagine yourself successfully completing a drive before you start driving.
  • Listen to music: Music can be helpful in improving your mood and keeping your mind from drifting off to negative thinking patterns.

Treatment for driving phobia

If driving phobia significantly interferes with your life, professional treatment can help. Effective treatment options include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps identify and challenge the irrational thoughts fueling your fear of driving.
  • Exposure Therapy: Exposure therapy involves facing your fear under the guidance of a therapist to reduce symptoms over time.

Everyone’s path to healing is different. Finding the right mix of therapy, practice, and support is key to how to get over driving phobia.

What to expect in therapy for driving phobia

Starting therapy for driving anxiety can feel intimidating, but knowing what to expect can make the process less overwhelming. Whether you’re dealing with vehophobia or a specific fear of driving like a fear of driving on highways, therapy offers a structured, supportive path toward recovery.

Here’s what you can expect in driving phobia therapy:

  • Initial assessment: Your therapist will begin by asking about your history with driving, the severity of your fears, and any underlying conditions such as PTSD, OCD, or panic disorder. This helps tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs.
  • Understanding your triggers: Therapy often focuses on identifying what situations trigger your driving anxiety — such as traffic jams, highways, nighttime driving, or the fear of having a panic attack while driving.
  • Building coping skills: You’ll learn practical tools to manage anxiety symptoms. This could include breathing techniques, cognitive reframing, and mindfulness exercises designed specifically for anxiety and driving situations.
  • Gradual exposure: One of the most effective strategies in therapy is gradual exposure. Your therapist may help you slowly face your fears in a controlled and supportive way — starting with imagining yourself driving, then sitting in the car, and eventually taking short drives.
  • Building confidence: As you work through therapy, you’ll set small, achievable driving goals that help you rebuild trust in yourself. Successes are celebrated, reinforcing the belief that you are capable of overcoming your car phobia.

Therapy for driving anxiety is a process of gradual, empowering progress. With the right guidance and support, you can move from being scared of driving to feeling calm and confident behind the wheel.

What to expect in therapy for driving phobia.

Finding help for fear of driving

If you feel scared of driving, remember — you are not alone, and help is available. Therapists specializing in anxiety and driving can offer customized treatment plans to address your specific fears, whether it’s a fear of driving on highways, fear of cars, or broader car phobia.

When looking for help:

  • Search for therapists who specialize in anxiety, phobias, PTSD, OCD, or panic attacks.
  • Check if your insurance covers therapy for anxiety-related disorders.
  • Consider online therapy options if in-person therapy sessions feel intimidating.

Overcoming fear of driving is possible with the right support, patience, and practice. Whether your driving anxiety stems from a traumatic experience or general anxiety, taking proactive steps toward healing can restore your confidence and independence.

Takeaway

Facing your fear of driving might feel overwhelming, but small, consistent steps can lead to big victories. With understanding, support, and persistence, you can regain your freedom and move past the anxiety that’s holding you back.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of car phobia or symptoms of driving anxiety, our network of therapists are here to help. Choose your therapist at findmytherapist.com and schedule your first appointment online.