Driving Test Too Stressful? Dutch Have an Answer

Germany's Mario Gomez, right, scores the opening goal past Dutch goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, left, during the Euro 2012 soccer championship Group B match between the Netherlands and Germany in Kharkiv, Ukraine, Wednesday, June 13, 2012. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda) / Vadim Ghirda

Some people flunk their driving tests because they can't parallel park. Others flunk for not entering traffic safely. And an unlucky few flunk for fear of flunking itself.

In response, the Netherlands has launched a special driving exam for people who suffer from acute test anxiety.

Examiners try to put test-takers at ease. The exam pace is leisurely, and drivers are allowed to take a "time out" if the pressure becomes too much for them.

But won't this put people behind the wheel who are liable to freeze in the face of a stressful traffic situation?

No, spokeswoman Irene Heldens of the country's Licensing Bureau said Thursday. Test anxiety is not linked to poor performance in real life.

"It will remain safe on the roads," she said.