Did you learn to drive right away?

I waited three years before I got my license and I didn't take lessons because I'd driven for years in the States. No lessons meant I failed both my theory test (the hazard perception part (!)) and my practical test once.

I think it's definitely easier if you take a couple of lessons because they take you around the actual test routes and explain what is expected of you. And it's cheaper than doing everything twice!

On the other hand, because I waited so long it was no prob remembering the correct side of the road!

I had no choice - DH (at the time DB) bought me a package of lessons. I had my first lesson 5 days after moving here! 

Still took me 7mts to get my license, but I have a car and wouldn't be able to do much without it, plus I lost my US license due to not declaring my car sold and returning my license plates to the state of VA (long story, on another thread). So, without my British license, I wouldn't be able to drive in the US either without retaking a test!