Driving Test

I wonder how taking the UK driving test compares to taking it in the Bronx/Queens/Brooklyn on the streets. I don't know if they offer tests in Manhattan, but I sure hope not. Driving in a lot of New York City, especially during the day, is like playing a crazy video game, but with real cars and pedestrians and definitely takes more skill than typical US driving. Personally I love it. I passed my driving test on a closed course in NJ, though, where you had to maintain a speed of between 10 and 15 mph. Ridiculously easy.

I think it all depends on your locality.  My cousin lives in Egg Harbor Township and she had to go the Expressway.  Ahhhhhh! 

I wonder how taking the UK driving test compares to taking it in the Bronx/Queens/Brooklyn on the streets. I don't know if they offer tests in Manhattan, but I sure hope not. Driving in a lot of New York City, especially during the day, is like playing a crazy video game, but with real cars and pedestrians and definitely takes more skill than typical US driving. Personally I love it. I passed my driving test on a closed course in NJ, though, where you had to maintain a speed of between 10 and 15 mph. Ridiculously easy.

I also passed my first driving test in NJ.
I almost flunked it because I borrowed a friends new car that had power steering and when I went around a corner the wheels didn't automatically return to the center so I almost went on the curb. I apologized to the examiner and I think he said 'thats alright I don't want to get killed thats all' He made my day by passing me. (NJ yes, UK no )

That doesn't sound right.There should be some kind of safety risk to get a major. Was it just one of 16+ minors?

Also, let us not forget that these guys are British civil servants -- the driving licence equivalent of the immigration officers we all came to know and love during the residency permit portion of this journey. They can do whatever they want to you. Are you sure you were sufficiently grovellingly polite, worshipful and trembling with fear of them?

Nope, I only had three minors that time and I was extremely polite! The instructor said it was because I hadn't paid attention to the sign listing the hours that the lane was open to cars. The truth is, I saw the sign, but didn't move over because no one else was driving in the bus lane and figured they knew something I didn't - shouldn't have doubted myself, I suppose.

Everyone I've told that story to has responded the same way - "That doesn't sound right/fair".  Personally, I think instructors are harder on first-time test-takers on purpose - I had more minor faults the second time round, but passed that time. Maybe it's a money-making thing?

I'm with you Cheers!!

"F*CK YOU. I WON'T DO WHAT YOU TELL ME."

/unless I'll get in trouble. In that case I'll do what you tell me. But I don't have to like it. But I'll smile anyhow.
//Crap, I'm powerless....

Is this topic STILL up for discussion???  lol