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Driving has become an essential part of daily life—whether it’s commuting to work, running errands, or dropping the kids off at school. But have you ever wondered how different countries decide who gets to sit behind the wheel?
Around the world, each nation has its own unique driving tests, some of which are surprisingly challenging! In this gallery, we explore the fascinating and sometimes unusual requirements drivers must meet to earn their licenses. Click through for a real lesson!
For several years, obtaining a driving license in Egypt was as simple as driving 20 feet (six meters) forward and then reversing.
In recent years, the test has become slightly more challenging. Candidates must now navigate an S-shaped track and demonstrate parking skills before being granted a license.
Australians go through extensive preparation before they can get behind the wheel legally.
Learners must complete 120 hours of practical driving lessons before they can even take a driving test to show their skills behind the wheel.
Obtaining a driver's license in China requires extensive preparation, with the most challenging part being the theory exam.
Candidates must study from a set of 1,000 questions. During the test, they are given 100 questions and must answer at least 90 correctly to pass.
In Brazil, getting a driving license is about more than just demonstrating basic driving skills. Candidates must undergo 25 hours of practical lessons, including four hours of night driving and five hours of simulated driving under an instructor’s supervision.
A unique aspect of Brazil's driving test is the focus on defensive driving. Candidates must complete 45 hours of theory lessons covering topics such as defensive driving techniques and first aid.
A few years ago, India had a more relaxed system where candidates weren’t required to take theory lessons or attend practical driving tests in person.
Today, stricter laws have been introduced to improve driving standards. Candidates must now complete 29 hours of theoretical and practical training. Interestingly, instead of attending a government facility, they can take their driving test at any certified private training school.
The minimum age for applying for a regular driving license in Saudi Arabia is 18, but those wishing to ride a motorcycle can apply at 16.
However, motorcycle applicants who are 16 must provide a guardian’s letter and a good conduct certificate from a local authority before they can take the test.
Getting a driving license in Andorra involves attending theory lessons and practical driving sessions under a certified instructor.
Interestingly, all driving tests in Andorra are exclusively conducted on Wednesdays.
In Nigeria, applicants must navigate several bureaucratic steps before obtaining a driving license.
One key requirement is proof of age, which must be verified either by official documentation or through an affidavit sworn by a family member in court.
For many years, Honduras had one of the easiest driving tests—because there wasn’t one!
However, recent reforms introduced a basic test. Candidates can now obtain a license by passing a simple questionnaire, but they still aren’t required to attend an actual driving test.
Russia has one of the most challenging driving exams in the world.
Applicants must log at least 50 hours of practical driving experience. They must then pass two practical tests—one on obstacle navigation and another of on-road driving. Additionally, they must provide a mental fitness certificate and prove they have no history of substance abuse.
Croatia has the second highest requirement for practical driving hours in the world, following Australia.
Applicants must complete at least 100 hours of driving experience before taking the test. The process is also one of the costliest in the world, with learning and licensing fees reaching approximately €1,025 (US$1,110). Beyond driving skills, candidates undergo physical and mental evaluations as well as personality assessments.
Getting a driver’s license in Jamaica is relatively straightforward, except for an unusual but important requirement.
Candidates must read a sentence as part of the theoretical exam. In addition, they must answer written questions about vehicle mechanics before proceeding to a practical driving test.
Vietnam has one of the most detailed driving tests in the world, with a rigorous evaluation process.
Candidates must first pass a written test containing more than 400 questions covering traffic rules, road signs, driving techniques, and driver ethics. The practical test includes various scenario-based assessments, such as stopping for pedestrians, navigating winding roads, making precise 90-degree turns, driving through intersections with or without traffic lights, parallel parking, and much more.
Before 2018, many regions in Mexico didn’t require applicants to take any test to obtain a driver’s license. Even today, some areas only require a simple theory exam.
One interesting fact is that individuals as young as 15 can apply for a driving permit. However, they must follow specific restrictions such as speed limits, curfews, or special license plates, depending on state regulations.
Sources: (Gulf Oil International Ltd) (Daily Express) (Jamaica Information Service) (Business Standard)
See also: Renting a car abroad? These countries drive on the left side of the road
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Driving has become an essential part of daily life—whether it’s commuting to work, running errands, or dropping the kids off at school. But have you ever wondered how different countries decide who gets to sit behind the wheel?
Around the world, each nation has its own unique driving tests, some of which are surprisingly challenging! In this gallery, we explore the fascinating and sometimes unusual requirements drivers must meet to earn their licenses. Click through for a real lesson!