Yes, you do need it for 100%.
My suggestion is to put it away for a while. Go off and play some other part of the game that's more fun. Frustration will not help you get around the track earlier.
Go back to some of the Beginner Events, and run them with the lowest-power RWD car you can get away with. Keep reducing the power (and increasing the A-spec points) as you win. This will help teach you how to be smooth and utilize momentum, and it will help you be a better driver. Also, get gold the first couple tiers of license tests. Like them or not, they really teach you how to drive in-game.
But really, if you're frustrated, move away for a bit and come back. You may find that in itself helps.