New research from temporary car insurance provider Tempcover reveals that driving anxiety is affecting career opportunities for Gen Z motorists in the UK. More than one in 10 (12%) have missed dream job interviews because they were too anxious to drive, while 10% have turned down promotions requiring additional travel.
The findings are based on a survey of 2,000 UK adult motorists conducted by Mortar Research between 9th and 11th February 2026. They highlight a significant confidence gap among younger drivers despite their legal qualifications.
Only 32% of Gen Z drivers feel confident driving alone for journeys of three hours or more, while 8% say they could not manage a solo drive of even 30 minutes. One in three (33%) regularly feel overwhelmed or out of their depth when behind the wheel. Additionally, 92% admit to finding at least one common motoring task daunting, contributing to broader driving anxiety.
Jake Lambert, a temporary car insurance expert at Tempcover, said: “The research exposes a hidden crisis on our roads where a generation of drivers, despite being legally qualified, are finding the reality of driving so overwhelming that it is potentially life-limiting.
When motorists are turning down promotions or missing interviews because they are too anxious to drive to the location, this ceases to be just a motoring issue and becomes a broader societal one. Confidence comes with experience, but if drivers are avoiding the road, they never bridge that gap.”
The survey results mirror reports in outlets such as the Daily Mail, which note similar patterns of fear around tasks like parallel parking, hill starts, and merging onto motorways. For many young drivers, these challenges go beyond technical skills to emotional barriers that deter independent travel.
For HR professionals and business leaders, the research signals a need to recognise driving anxiety as a potential barrier in recruitment and retention. Young professionals may avoid applying for roles, attending interviews, or accepting promotions that involve travel. Employers could offer support by encouraging gradual driving experience opportunities or providing flexible travel alternatives, such as public transport allowances or remote work options.
Experts suggest practical strategies to build driving confidence. Gradual, supported practice can help drivers address challenging scenarios such as long journeys or parking. Utilising temporary insurance allows young drivers to safely gain experience in different vehicles and conditions. Planning shorter, manageable trips before progressively increasing distance or complexity can also help. Incremental experience can help close the confidence gap over time.
The research comes amid broader discussions about Gen Z driving challenges. Despite high pass rates for younger learners—17-year-olds achieved a 61% average between 2024 and 2025—many continue to experience post-qualification anxiety. Temporary solutions like short-term insurance can facilitate low-risk practice, but sustained exposure remains essential to building lasting self-assurance.
As driving remains critical for many career paths in the UK, addressing this anxiety could improve social and economic participation for a generation entering the workforce.