Why Did Ozzy Osbourne Struggle So Much With Getting His Driver’s License?
If you’ve ever felt nervous about a driving test, you’re in good company. Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, famously failed his driving test a whopping 18 times before finally passing on his 19th attempt. That’s right—19 tries. So, what made it so difficult for him?
First, Ozzy’s candid about his lifelong struggles with focus and anxiety. In interviews, he’s admitted that nerves would get the better of him every time he sat behind the wheel for a test. Add to that his well-documented history with substance abuse, and you’ve got a recipe for some serious roadblocks. Even after getting sober, the pressure of being recognized everywhere he went didn’t help. Imagine trying to parallel park with a crowd of fans watching your every move. Not exactly ideal test conditions.
What Drew Ozzy to Cars Despite His Driving Challenges?
Here’s the twist: Ozzy’s fascination with cars never faded, no matter how much trouble he had actually driving them. He’s a self-confessed car nut, with a particular soft spot for flashy sports cars and classic British models. In fact, his garage has boasted everything from Ferraris to Bentleys over the years.
Why the obsession? For Ozzy, cars represented freedom and a bit of normalcy—something he craved amid the chaos of rock stardom. He’s said that just being around cars, tinkering with them, or talking shop with other enthusiasts was a way to ground himself. It’s a reminder that even global icons have passions that keep them connected to the real world.
Did Ozzy’s Driving Mishaps Ever Cause Real Trouble?
Absolutely. The most infamous incident happened shortly after he finally got his license. Ozzy, thrilled to be legally driving at last, took his Ferrari out for a spin—and promptly crashed it. No one was seriously hurt, but the story became instant rock legend. It’s a classic example of how excitement and inexperience can be a dangerous mix, no matter who you are.
This wasn’t Ozzy’s only brush with automotive disaster. Over the years, he’s admitted to several fender benders and close calls, often chalking them up to nerves or distraction. The lesson here? Even the most passionate car lovers aren’t immune to the realities of the road.
How Do Celebrities Like Ozzy Cope With Driving in the Spotlight?
Being famous changes everything, even something as ordinary as driving. For Ozzy, the pressure of being recognized added a whole new layer of stress to an already challenging task. Paparazzi, fans, and the constant fear of making a mistake in public made every trip behind the wheel feel like a high-stakes performance.
Many celebrities opt for chauffeurs or private drivers for this very reason. But Ozzy’s determination to drive himself speaks to his desire for independence. It’s a reminder that fame doesn’t erase the need for personal freedom—or the thrill of a solo drive.
What Can We Learn From Ozzy’s Persistence?
Ozzy’s story isn’t just about cars or driving tests—it’s about resilience. Failing 18 times would make most people give up, but he kept going. That kind of persistence is rare, especially when the world is watching. It’s proof that setbacks don’t have to define you, whether you’re a rock star or just someone trying to pass their road test.
The big takeaway? Mastering a skill—whether it’s driving, playing guitar, or anything else—rarely happens overnight. It isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.
