I've been driving in my car, it don't look much but I've been far...

Madness!

Well, yes the lyrics are 'Madness' but the driving here even more so!

I spent this morning at the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) to take my drivers test/ license. Firstly the paperwork require is crazy, you need more ID to get your permit than to get a social security number which is just ridiculous. Nic had to dash out from work to bring HIS drivers license as proof of... god only knows what! The employees were as Nic commented 'Simpsons Characters'. Every bit as quirky and odd as you'd expect. (Not all mind you just some)!

I arrived early as I had to take the written test first. It wasn't hard, you need 80% correct and there are a few off questions in there as always but it went fine and I passed - phew!

Love her!

After waiting around a bit, the examiner called me and we headed out in my big ole pickup! We basically drove around the area for about 8/10 minutes then back to the parking lot and job done and passed! NO reversing, NO parallel parking, NO emergency stop, NO gears, etc etc. Nada. Now, great for me as I passed with flying colors but seriously scary that new drivers can be on the road after that.

I can honestly say, the driving standard over here is terrible. Each driver is in their own little bubble with absolutely no awareness of whats going on around them. They break, change lanes and dawdle along on the highway but don't think about what else might be trying to enter those lanes etc. Honestly its pretty terrifying at best and downright critically dangerous at worse. You have to drive here with much more awareness that you would in the UK and given that the roads are huge and fast here its quite challenging.

I love my car and am pleased that I am so huge on the roads, it makes me feel a tad safer at least! Well, I'm official now so full steam ahead!