Finally passed my PDR exam after two failed attempts — here's what worked

Okay so I've been wanting to write this for a while. I took the PDR exam twice last year and failed both times — 68% and then 71%, both just under the passing threshold. I was honestly ready to give up and just keep working without the certification. But my shop owner basically said it would mean a raise if I got it, so I buckled down one more time.

What actually changed my approach was finding a solid PDR practice test online and doing it repeatedly until I could identify exactly where my weak spots were. For me it was the business/estimating section — I kept underestimating how much they tested on customer communication and insurance documentation, not just the technical repair stuff. I put in about 3-4 hours a week for six weeks, focused heavily on those areas, and scored an 84% on my third try.

Has anyone else struggled with the non-technical portions? I feel like most study guide resources focus on the dent repair techniques and skip over the business side. Would love to hear what others did to prepare, especially if you're also a working tech trying to squeeze study time in around a full schedule.