Did you know that there’s no universal standard for getting a driver’s license? It’s true.Testing procedures and driving requisites vary greatly from country to country, and some of them are extraordinary! We’ve put together a list of some of our favorite fun facts about driver’s licenses from around the world. Check them out!
Mexico City
Until recently, you didn't need to take a test before getting your license in Mexico City. All you had to do was verbally commit to being a safe driver and that was it. After a rash of serious accidents, these laws were changed and now you have to take both a written and driving test to get a license.
Egypt
In Egypt, people take a very short test that consists of only 10 questions to get a license. The driving portion of the test, however, is very hard to pass, with a challenging S-shaped course. More than half of the Egyptians who take it fail the first time.
Finland
When you get a driver's license in Finland, you don't have to sweat the renewal because it's good for 15 years. But, that means the tests are probably the most difficult in any country. Applicants need to exhibit car maintenance skills and their dexterity for driving on slippery roads. They also have to prove that they're adept at night driving, because the sun sets as early as 3:00 pm during the spring in Finland.
Italy
When you get a new license in Italy, you get a grand total of 20 points. If a driver in Italy loses all of his or her points by committing multiple offenses, such as speeding or using a cell phone while driving, he or she has to take another driving test.
North Korea
There are 14 different levels of driver’s licenses permitted in North Korea, although private car ownership is forbidden. Licensed drivers—typically from affluent families—often work for the government as chauffeurs.
United States – South Dakota
A kid can get a restricted driver’s license in South Dakota that allows unsupervised driving from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a parent or guardian’s permission.
India
You need to have a learner’s permit for 30 days in India before you can get a light motor vehicle license after a simple driving test.
Australia
The speed limit is 62 mph for new drivers in southern Australia, regardless of what the signs say.
China
Applicants in China must answer 100 questions in 45 minutes, and unless you get 90 right, you fail. The Ministry of Public Security offers no sample test to practice with, “as it is the intention of the Ministry that students must learn the traffic regulations and understand the intention of the rules rather than memorize answers to questions.”
Do you know some strange laws and rules for those wanting to get a driver’s license? Tell us about them! Leave us a comment below.
Sources: Wikipedia, DMV News and CNN.com
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Ed Attanasio
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