Driving Tests of the World Compared
If you’ve taken the UK driving test, you’re well aware of the frustrating experience, but have you ever given thought to the learner drivers in Brazil? Car Jacking in this South American country is so prevalent that learner drivers have to undergo defensive driving techniques in the event they are set upon Grand Theft Auto Style.
A recent survey revealed that UK motorists are seeking to change the laws that apply to drivers who’ve have passed their test abroad, and have them take a full test just one month after arriving in the UK. But the fact is that there are some countries whose driving tests can be cleared even without being physically present yet there are others whose tests are extremely challenging.
US Driving Test – Owing to the political laws in the US, driving laws vary from state to state, where Idaho and Kansas issue provisional licenses to teenagers as young as 14. Then there are others that do not issue learner licenses until the age of 21. Regardless of the age, all provisional drivers must successfully complete a six month government recognized graduated license programme before getting on the roads when accompanied with an individual over the age of 21. These laws may have certain limitations as well such as a late night curfew and driving with passengers.
Mexico Driving Test – Whoever told you that Mexico is the easiest place to obtain a licence was definitely not joking. To define easy, you don’t even need to appear for the test if you’re over the age of 18, but rather just fork over 626 pesos (or £28) and you’re road ready. Mexican roads cater to over four million vehicles, which combined with the lack of a standardized test is the reason for the substantial number of crashes.
India Driving Test – If that’s what you want to call it! Until recently, driving tests in India entailed driving through four cones and doing the same in reverse motion. Today, you have to physically be present with an examiner to undergo a through test.
Japan – Definitely worth a mention on this list considering that the pass rates are below 35%, making it the most stringent countries to get a driver’s license. During the driving test, driver’s must maintain a speed at 30 kph or lower per hour, and instantly fail if they fail to check oncoming traffic, fail to stop at a traffic light and even mistakenly drive over a kerb. Adding to this, driver’s can also fail if they don’t bend low enough to check for cats or kittens prior to starting the test.
South Africa Driving Test – The driving test in South Africa is divided into two sessions – yard test and a road test. On the road test, you can lose points inspecting the vehicle for leaks and not using your handbrake each time to come to a halt. The pass rate is just 35%, but this is substantially increased as official welcome bribes.
UK Driving Test – You can apply for a provisional driver’s licence when you hit 16, but can’t initiate lessons until yyou’re17. When you do start driving, you must have L plates and be in the company of a 21 or older driver with a full driver’s license. You must also ensure that you have adequate car insurance or traders insurance.