I live in Canada, not the U.S., but the process here is almost identical to what you're describing.

You go for driving lessons, then get a certificate from the school that you basically need to take the tests: both written and practical.

There's only one "written" test, and it's not actually written per se. You go to a kiosk and select answers to questions on a computer touch screen. The test has audio and video, in addition to text. If you pass, you get your G1 license. This is a restricted license where you're not allowed to drive alone, late at night, or on the major highways.

After that, you take two driving tests. The first one is to get the G2 license. The G2 is almost like the final license, virtually all of the restrictions have been removed. The only real difference, is that it's temporary.

If you pass the second driving test, that's when you get your G license and you are set!

I remember how I passed the first two tests with flying colors, but then made a small mistake on the final one. Right at the end of the test, too! I was just about to pass! I was so angry. So I had to take it again, and then I passed.

In Az. you can get your learner's permit when 15 1/2. You can drive at 16, if you pass the "test".

The big deal here is not so much the license, as it is the insurance.

well, The Canadian way seems the most similar to the British way.


here, at the age of 17, you apply for a provisional license [which is a green card with a silly photo on it.], this lets you drive on roads [excluding motorways] under the supervision of someone who had had a full licence for 3 years.

it also allows driving lessons on the open road and to take the tests...

now for the tests:

first there is a theory test. this consists of 2 sections: one with touch screen multiple choice questions and the other with 14 short video clips and the person taking the test has to spot all the hazards.

when that test has been passed [and only when it's been passed] then comes the practical test, which consists of a short drive with an examiner in the passenger seat. getting marked down for all the mistakes made.

if the cantidate gets 14 or less minor errors and 0 major errors, they have passed and can apply for a full license [which is pink. i don't like pink. i think we should be able to choose the colour [other than green]
so i still got quite a way to go, but i'm getting there.

oh, and insurance is a pain in the side for young, just-passed-test drivers here too. i got a quote on a 1996 ford fiesta for £1400

thankyou for your insights into different methods of becoming roadworthy... very interesting.

Well in Florida kids are allowed to get their restricted license at 15 (it means a licensed driver over 21 must be with them while they drive). At the age of 16, you can apply for a regular license. All you have to do is pass a written test and a 10 minute driving test. Honestly it's pretty scarey how easy the process is here in Florida :^(. I wish states would *require* either drivers education in high school or some type of formal driver training.

redrain85 Wrote:Mine started off at about $300+ per month. Now it's dropped to about $160 per month. I know some younger people that were quoted close to $1000 per month!

YIKES! Although it's been a few years now, I remember paying only $180 a month AFTER I had 3 tickets within 12 months.

-Timothy

Starhawk.exe Wrote:We recently moved to Florida, and the drivers here are AWEFUL! I don't know if they are finding their licenses in a box of ceral or what, but man! Add old people and toursits, and you might as well be asking for a death wish everytime you drive here. It's that bad!

LOL! Thanks for the laugh Starhawk. While it's easy to blame the elderly and tourist (especially in Central & South Florida), I prefer to blame all of the transplants from the North . Danm Yankees !

-Timothy