Driving in other countries

If you are learning to drive, it may be comforting to consider that the one thing in common with every country is the worry of failing the driving test.

Most countries have adopted a system of testing that includes a theory element which is followed by a practical assessment. There are variations within the this theme that depend on decisions made by the driver testing organisation in each country.

As q qualified driver in your own country, if you intend to drive in another country, you can normally do so for a certain period of time before having to take a driving test. Regulations, arrangements and licence exchanges will vary from country to country or between states and provinces of each country. For instance US drivers should be aware that European countries can make agreements with individual states. As an example, that means that your New York driver’s license is valid (for the first year) in Spain, but your Massachusetts driver’s license is not.

The basic of rule of driving is which side of the road to drive on. From there on there will be many other rules and regulations concerning use of seat belts, keeping within speed limits and how much, if any alcohol is allowed in your blood when you are driving. You are responsible for being aware of regulations that will affect you.