In America, for the first time to receive a driver's license, a person has
to take a vision test, a written test about the rules, and a driving test
to demonstrate correct application of the law to the driving. A license
will be denied if, for example, the applicant fails to come to a complete
stop behind the stop sign.

As part of the driving test, the applicant must show knowledge about how
the lights, horn, windshield wipers and brakes work on their vehicle, as
well has having a valid license tag on the vehicle and, if required by the
state, a current inspection sticker. They must also have insurance and the
car must be registered. The property taxes on the vehicle must be currently
paid up, and proof of that furnished. There is a charge for the taxes once
a year; the license tag usually once a year, though a truck may be once
every 3 or 5 years; and a fee, about $5, to take the driving test. The
insurance can amount to hundreds of dollars, especially for a new driver
under age 25.

If the applicant is under age 18, they must also have their parent's
permission, and will probably first pay for a permit which allows for
practice driving before taking the test. The written test includes one
section on the laws and another of recognizing traffic signs, such as a
deer crossing warning.

If the applicant fails the test, they may take it again after a certain
amount of time has passed. But they will need to pay again for the test and
furnish proof of everything again.

To renew a license, the applicant will have to pay for the test, furnish
all the proofs, take a vision test, and, if they do this before the
expiration date of their driver's license, that is all.

New American laws will require furnishing 4 different types of
identification including Social Security card, birth certificate, proof of
residence and some sort of photo ID. This goes into effect by May, 2008,
but some states are already requiring some of this.
Lynn