Never got driving test in uk

[Big Papa Zone 93]

Question!

I have a drivers licence here in Croatia and, before I leave, I'll get the international version of it. When I come to the US, what happens with it? Or, well, I know I can use it, but how do I get an American licence? Is my current licence valid, or can it not be 'translated' to the American version and I'll still have to take a test of some sort?

When you come to the US, you will be able to drive on your foreign licence. For how long differs from state-to-state. For example, in Illinois where I am, I was allowed to drive on my UK licence for 90 days. And wherever you are, you will absolutely have to take a test (written, vision, and practical - all incredibly easy).

Edited May 2, 2009 by Damian P

[fozzie 41]

I never learned to drive in the UK but its on my list of to-do's. I think that the NYC road test will be be substantially harder than some posted here, does anyone have any experience of learning to drive in NYC?

[HikerMark 5]

Here in Arizona my experience of the driving test was the same as most of the others here. A relatively simple multiple choice written test, a parallel parking test at the DMV and then a very quick 5 minute road test which was round the block in a residential district. A lot lot easier than the UK driving test even when I took it 30 years ago.

Once you get used to the four way crossings and the turning right on red I am finding it quite easy to drive here. One big plus here in Phoenix are the big wide roads forming the major grid lines. Three lanes each way a lot of the time giving loads of space. The only scary part I have experienced on a couple of occasions has been the freeway near to downtown Phoenix at rush hour. Six lanes each way and totally solid!!!

[RUSSandRACHEL 3]

No one has posted on here in a while so I thought I'd get it started up again as this is another one of those essential things to overcome in coming to America (if you have never took your UK driving test that is).

So... how exactly do you go about taking your driving test here? Whats all this business about a permit etc and how do you apply to take your driving test? Can anyone shed any light on the subject, step by step?

This isn't something that I have to do right now, I just like to be organised and want to get this all set for when I get my K1 visa next spring (fingers crossed)

Any help would be appreciated!

[Welshcookie 17]

I never did learn to drive in the UK either and thought that I might do it here...but the roads completely freak me out, I don't think i have the confidence at all to drive here.

As for the no helmet rule in FL. my husband started riding without his after a while....the roads around us were so straight and speed limit so low he felt safe enough, although after one trip on the interstate without a helmet he never did that again

[familyguy 2]

The HARD part is getting the DMV to issue you a learners permit/DL. After that everything else is easy.

Oh and Russ/Rachel I have driven in 34 of the States and without doubt NJ has the WORST drivers of them all. They are suicidal maniacs.

Edited September 10, 2009 by familyguy

[JeremyR 8]

So... how exactly do you go about taking your driving test here? Whats all this business about a permit etc and how do you apply to take your driving test? Can anyone shed any light on the subject, step by step?

There are state-by-state variations but the process is pretty much like this:

Once you can satisfy the state requirements for proof of identity and legal presence, you can apply for a Learner's Permit. The proof of ID part is simple, passport and birth certificate will suffice. Proof of legal presence is a little trickier and varies from state to state. Some (a minority) will accept the NOA1 for the I-485 as proof of status, most will not. In all cases though, an EAD or a green card is acceptable. You will also be required to provide proof of residence in the state (bank statement, bill, etc), give a social security number and pass a very quick vision test.

Part of the application process for the learner's permit is normally a 'road rules and signs' test. It's not typically very difficult, just read the state's driver's manual (equivalent of the Highway Code) a couple of times and pay attention to understanding the all-way stop and right-on-red rules - the two main differences from UK driving laws. 15 year-olds pass this test all the time so it can't be that tough Pass that and you'll be given a learners permit.

The learner's permit itself is roughly equivalent to a British 'provisional' license in that it allows a learner driver to drive on the roads so long as they're accompanied by a fully licensed adult. Unlike in Britain, LP holders are allowed on any road (including free-ways and interstates). Once you've got the permit, you practice for as long as necessary before taking your 'road test'.

As has been mentioned already, the road test is a lot quicker and easier than the UK equivalent. It takes place on a closed course at the back of the DMV parking lot. There's a quick 'safety check' where the tester checks your insurance status, lights, mirrors and horn and then a short (less than 15 minute) driving test. The examiner may take you out on the open road but they don't have to and it's normally only briefly.

Again requirements vary by state but for my road test I was asked to:

- Start the car, pull forward to a stop sign and stop.

- Reverse in a straight line for about 75ft.

- Reverse into a parking space.

- Parallel park

- Accelerate to 20 and stop within about 100ft, without passing a stop sign.

- Drive around the block, once, on quiet 25mph roads and park back at the DMV office.

That done, you get given a regular driving license and can then drive around without having to nag your spouse to come with you like some teenaged kid

If you hold a full UK drivers license, you can skip the LP stage and go straight to the road test. All of this assumes the learner is over 18. K-2's experiences may vary because states tend to have a 'graduated licensing program' for 15-18 year olds.