Driver's License

Information about Driver's License

Current EU driving licence, German version - front
1. Family name
2. Given name(s)
3. Date and place of birth
4a. Issuing date
4b. Expiry date
4c. Issuing authority
5. Licence number
7. Signature of bearer
9. Categories

German version reverse
9. Licence categories
10. Issue date of the category
11. Expiry date of the category
12. restrictions (number coded)

A driver's license or driver license (U.S.), driving licence (UK, Ireland, Hong Kong, Pakistan, India, Singapore, Malta), driver's licence or driver licence (Canada, Australia^†, New Zealand), or operator's licence is an official document which states that a person may operate a motorized vehicle, such as a motorcycle, car, truck, or a bus. In some jurisdictions, driver's licences are issued after the recipient has passed a driving test, while in others, a person acquires a driver's licence before beginning to drive. (This is largely a matter of nomenclature - generally an official document by some name is required to undertake practical driving in either case.) Different categories of licence may exist for different types of motor vehicles. The difficulty of the driving test may vary considerably between regions, as do prerequisites such as age restrictions and the required level of tuition.

History

France and Germany were among the earliest countries to require mandatory driver licensing, right at the start of the 20th century. As automobile-related fatalities soared in North America, public outcry provoked legislators to begin studying the French and German statutes as models.^[1]

On August 1, 1910, North America's first driver licensing law went into effect in the U.S. state of New York, though it initially applied only to professional chauffeurs.^[2] In July of 1913, the state of New Jersey became the first to require all drivers to pass a mandatory examination before receiving a licence.^[3]
Identification
Because a large number of countries, including Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States have no national identification cards and because of the widespread use of cars, driver's licences are often used as a de facto standard form of identification.

These U.S. states: Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, and Wisconsin require licenses and ID cards issued to those under 21 to have a vertical orientation instead of the usual horizontal one in order to aid in determining whether one is of legal drinking age. California and Oregon have adopted a similar system for its licenses, having the picture appear on the right for drivers under 21 and on the left for drivers 21 and older. New York, on the other hand, prints "Under 21" in red bold letters on the licenses of underage drivers, but otherwise these licenses look identical to those for adult drivers. North Carolina recently started a color program for varying age groups: A red border indicates the driver is under 18, a yellow border for ages 18-20, and a green border for those 21 and over, as well as "Under 18" or "Under 21" written down the right side of the driver's picture if they are under 18 or 21. Many states also add information to their licenses, such as "Under 21 until 08-15-2007" to aid in enforcing the drinking age and age of majority of 18 (for tobacco and lottery in most states).

Many European countries and Canada require drivers to produce their licence on demand when driving. In such countries the driver must always carry their licence on them when driving. In the United Kingdom, when required to produce a driving licence, the driver may have up to 7 days to produce the licence at a Police station.

Many European countries also require adults to carry an ID card at all times. Citizens of EU countries which have no national ID cards also have to carry their passports when travelling in these countries, whether driving or not.

In the People's Republic of China, the driver's licence number is synonymous with the citizen's ID number (and is up to 18 digits long).

Similarly, Saudi Arabia requires all drivers to carry an ID card in addition to a licence, and present them whenever requested. Using a driver's licence instead is only permitted if the request is made for on-site inspection/identification purposes, especially at check points. Expatriates may be requested to present their visas as well.

Many countries have established a driver's licence exchange arrangement after reviews of the foreign jurisdiction's licensing processes. Where standards in the other jurisdiction are comparable in areas such as medical standards, minimum driving age, and knowledge and road testing, an exchange (or honoring) of the foreign jurisdiction's license may occur.[1]
Organ donations
An organ donation is when potentially functional organs are removed from a deceased person and used in a patient who needs that specific organ. When used in this context, if a driver is killed in an automobile accident, the functional organs would be used for transplants. A small picture of a "heart" or the term ORGAN DONOR is printed on your driver's license to indicate that you're an organ donor. It is not mandatory and does not cost any extra to choose to be an organ donor.

In the United States, the Uniform Anatomical Gift Act encourages the various states to set up programs through which licensed drivers can make organ donations for the purpose of transplant by a notation on their licenses.

Likewise, in the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Ireland, many choose to have an intention to donate organs listed on their license, however it is by no means compulsory.

In Australia, the system of notating organ donation requests on driver's licenses was replaced in July 2005 with a national organ donor register, administered under the auspices of Medicare, with a separate card that can be carried for fast identification as a donor.
Country specifics

Australia
Licensing laws in Australia differ between different states and territories; however, most involve a similar procedure and a graduated licensing scheme. Nomenclature varies between the different states and territories of Australia between "driver's licence" and "driver licence".
Australian Capital Territory
The minimum age for a Learner Driver Licence in the ACT is 15 years and 9 months. The licence can be obtained after completing the Road Ready course (road safety program, run in many secondary schools, or at a Road Ready Centre), and passing a computerised road rules test. The learner licence lasts for two years. Learner drivers must display black on yellow 'L Plates' and drive with a full Australian licence holder.

The provisional licence can be obtained after reaching 17 years of age, holding the learner licence for 6 months, and either completing a logbook with an accredited driving instructor, or passing a practical driving test. The provisional licence is valid for 3 years. Provisional drivers must display red on white 'P Plates' for three years, unless they take the Road Ready Plus course after six months, or are over 26 and have held the licence for 6 months.

After holding the licence for three years, it can be upgraded to an Open Licence.

For more about driver licensing in the ACT, visit ACT Department of Territory and Municipal Services - Driver Licence.
New South Wales
The minimum age for a Learner Driver Permit is 16 years (for cars) and for a Learner Rider Licence 16 years and 9 months (for motorcycles). Since the introduction of an enhanced graduated licensing scheme in 2000, new drivers must proceed through 3 different stages before gaining a full, unrestricted licence. A learner driver licence is gained after passing a computerised knowledge test. Learner drivers are permitted to drive accompanied by a supervising unrestricted licence holder (usually a parent or professional driving instructor). Learner drivers are subjected to numerous restrictions: a maximum speed of 80 km/h, a zero alcohol limit, cannot tow a trailer, and must conspicuously display black-on-yellow 'L-plates' while driving. As of July 1, 2007, learner drivers must complete at least 120 hours (verified by a log book completed by the supervising driver) of on-road driving experience, and must hold the permit for at least 12 months, before they may apply for a provisional licence, stage 1. In an intentional quirk of the system, drivers may apply for a learner licence at the age of 16 and six months, but the minimum age for a P1 licence is 17; drivers who apply for a Learner's permit on their sixteenth birthday must therefore hold the licence for a year before progressing to the next stage. This is thought to encourage extra driving experience for younger applicants.

A Provisional licence, stage 1 (P1 - red) (commonly called Ps and Reds) is gained after a minimum twelve months of holding a Learner Licence, 120 hours of on-road driving experience, and successful completion of an on-road practical driving examination. The licence holder can drive unaccompanied, but is limited to a maximum speed of 90 km/h, towing trailers of up to 250 kg, and a zero alcohol content. They must display red-on-white 'P-plates' while driving. P1 drivers are limited to a total of three demerit points during the term of the licence, as compared to the 12-point limit on unrestricted licences. P1 drivers must hold the licence for one year before progressing to the next stage. In New South Wales the minimum age to be eligible for a P1 Licence is 17. As of 1st July 2007, new laws for P1 drivers have been introduced, including a limit of one passenger under the age of 21 between 11pm and 5am, and instant disqualification for 3 months for any speeding offence. Furthermore, it is also now a requirement that red 'P-plates' be displayed on the outside of the vehicle.

A Provisional licence, stage 2 (P2 - green) (commonly known as Ps and Greens) is gained after one year and successful completion of a computerised hazard perception test. The driver is restricted to a speed limit of 100 km/h, a zero alcohol limit, and a maximum of six demerit points; however, they are eligible to upgrade the class of their licence, such as those for heavier vehicles. P2 drivers must display a green-on-white 'P-plate' at all times. P2 drivers must hold the licence for two years before progressing to the next stage.

A full, unrestricted licence is gained after two years and successful completion of another computerised test. Unrestricted drivers might progress through different "colour" licences: black, silver and gold.

There are several common complaints about the NSW licensing scheme. The relatively high number of road accidents and traffic offences (such as speeding and drink-driving) involving P-plate drivers has prompted calls for further driving restrictions, such as curfews and passenger restrictions, as implemented in other countries. Some consider 50 hours to be insufficient experience for learner drivers. Also, the blanket speed restrictions on Learner and Provisional drivers can pose problems on country roads and freeways, where learner drivers are restricted to 80 km/h while other drivers may travel up to 110 km/h. In Queensland and Victoria, this problem is avoided by not imposing speed restrictions on newly licensed drivers. There has been some criticism, especially amongst holders of provisional licenses, that the new laws punish the majority whilst it is only the minority that are the offenders.

For more information about Driver's Licenses in New South Wales go to The Roads and Traffic Authority and click on Licensing
Victoria
A Learner's Permit is gained after passing a computerised knowledge test and eye-sight test. Drivers are restricted to driving only with a BAC of 0.00%, whilst accompanied by a fully licensed driver (non-Probationary) who has a BAC below 0.05%, as well as displaying 'L' plates, and not towing a trailer. There are no speed or vehicle restrictions. Learner's Permits must be held for at least 6 months, unless the holder is over 25, in which case it is 3 months. In a new scheme slowly being implemented, the current recommendation of 120 hours practice will become mandatory for learners aged 16-20. The minimum age for obtaining a Learner's Permit is 16 years.

A Probationary Licence is gained after passing a computerised Hazard Perception Test and a practical driving test, as well as an eye-sight test. Drivers are restricted to driving with a 0.00% BAC, and are not permitted to drive 'high powered vehicles' (those powered at more than 125kw/tonne or 3.5 litres/tonne). They must also display white-on-red 'P' plates. If the driver was tested in an automatic vehicle, then they must not drive a manual vehicle. There is no speed restrictions, and trailers may be towed. Currently, there is only one level of Probation, which lasts for 3 years. In July 2008, there will be a new P1 and P2 system implemented similar to New South Wales. From then, the red P plates will become the P1 level, and last for 1 year. However, towing will not be allowed on the new P1 level, nor will any mobile phone use - hands-free or otherwise. The minimum age for obtaining a Probationary Licence is 18 years.

A P2 Probationary Licence is a future level of licence in Victoria, that will be implemented from July 2008. It will be gained if a good driving record is maintained whilst holding the P1 licence. The same P1 restrictions apply, except P2 drivers may tow trailers, and use hands-free mobile phones. They must also display white-on-green 'P' plates, rather than red. P2 licences last for 3 years, making the minimum age of receiving a full licence 22 years, up from 21. The minimum age for obtaining a P2 licence is 19 years.

A Full Driver Licence is obtained after finishing the probation period. There are few restrictions, other than not being able to drive while holding a mobile phone, and the need to have a BAC under 0.05%. Full licences are issued for a ten year duration, but can be made available for three years if requested.

For a greater explanation of the new system, see the Victorian Government's Arrive Alive website.
Western Australia
A Phase 1 Learner's Permit to drive a car in Western Australia can be gained by anyone aged 16 or over after successfully passing a computer-based driving theory test and an eyesight test. Drivers with Learner's Permits may only drive whilst accompanied by either a qualified driving instructor or a person who has held a valid licence of the same type as the permit for 4 years. Learner drivers must display black-on-yellow "L" plates, and must not drive with a Blood alcohol content exceeding 0.02%. Phase 1 Learner drivers are not permitted to drive on Perth freeways or within Kings Park. Learner's Permits expire after one year.

A Phase 2 Learner's Permit is awarded to those Phase 1 Learners who pass a practical driving test accompanied by an examiner employed by the government. Only those aged 16 years and 6 months or older are permitted to undergo the practical assessment. Successful drivers are presented with a log book, in which they must record subsequent driving experience and conditions. Phase 2 Learner drivers are permitted to drive on Perth freeways, however they must still be accompanied by an experienced driver whenever they drive and the other restrictions continue to apply.

A Provisional Licence is awarded when Learner drivers aged 17 years or over complete 25 hours of driving experience in their log book and pass a computerised "Hazard perception test". Drivers with provisional licences must display red-on-white "P-plates" whenever they drive, can drive unaccompanied and still cannot drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.02% or higher. Provisional drivers have half the demerit points of regular drivers.

The provisional licence automatically converts into a Full Driver's Licence after the two year probationary period. Drivers with full driver's licences may drive with a blood alcohol content less than 0.05%, and may drive at up to 110 km/h (the maximum speed limit in the state) where as a "P" plate driver may only drive up to 100 km /h, where permitted by the state.

Drivers who have had their licence revoked can obtain an Extraordinary Licence if they can demonstrate that the loss of their licence inflicts hardship. They must pay a $A500 fine, and display black-on-yellow "E" plates. The Extraordinary Licence permits them only to drive to avoid the hardship, such as to and from work.

For more information on Driver's Licenses in Western Australia go to The Department For Planning and Infrastructure and click on Licensing Services
Queensland
As of 2005, Queensland licences are now called a "Driver Licence" (as opposed to the traditional "Driver's Licence" or the variant "Driving Licence"), and no longer carry information about the holder's organ donor status. The Australian Organ Donor Register^[4] is now used for national registration of tissue donation status, due to criticism of the previous schemes.

There are no additional speed limit restrictions imposed on learner drivers.

Elderly drivers are required to have their licences renewed more often and required to have compulsory eye tests, which does not include colour vision (which is in theory important for understanding traffic signals, although colour blind people can in practice tell by position, this requires more concentration).

As of July 2007, New, tough, and controversial licensing laws were enforced on drivers under the age of 25. These included decreasing the minimum age of learners from 16 years 6 months, to 16 years, but increasing the minimum length of time the learner's licence is held to 1 year instead of 6 months, and included a compulsory 100 logged driving hours.

For more information about Driver's Licenses in Queensland go to Queensland Transport and click on Licensing
South Australia
A person who is at least 16 may apply for a Learner Permit (commonly called Ls) in South Australia. Applicants must pass a theory test to qualify. A learner driver must be accompanied by somebody who holds a full licence for the vehicle being driven. They must display yellow L plates, not have any alcohol in their blood, not get more than 4 demerit points, and must not travel above 80 km/h.

To get a Provisional Licence (also commonly called a probationary licence or Ps), you must have held a learner's permit for at least 6 months or have an equivalent interstate or overseas driver licence. If you had a learner permit, you must also have a log book showing you have had at least 50 hours driving experience (including at least 10 hours of night-time driving). All applicants must pass a practical driving test or be signed off on several points by a driving instructor in a competency-based training course. Drivers are then issued with a P1 licence. The main restrictions on P-platers are a maximum speed limit of 100 km/h (even where the posted speed limit is higher), a requirement that no alcohol or party drugs be in the system, and not being allowed to accrue more than 4 demerit points. They must also display red P plates (shown on left).

After a 12-month good driving record on normal Ps (P1s) or successfully completing a driver awareness course, a driver qualifies for P2s. This is the same as P1s, but the driver doesn't need to display P plates.

A driver must have held a provisional licence (combined P1s and P2s) for at least 2 years and a P2 licence for at least 6 months before becoming a fully-licensed driver. Fully-licensed drivers have their restrictions on alcohol relaxed to 0.05 per cent blood alcohol concentration and may drive at the full speed limit (which is 110 km/h on many country roads).

For more information about Driver's Licenses in South Australia go to The Department for Transport and click on Licenses & Certification
General
Tourists and visitors staying less than three months are permitted to drive on the licence of their home country. If the licence is not written in English, then an acceptable translation of the licence must be carried at all times. Visitors staying more than three months must apply for a licence in the state in which they reside.

Licences and Photo Cards are hologrammed, and contain a photograph, signature, and the holder's address. In some states, they also show organ donor status.

In Australia, where there is no form of national identity card, driver's licences serve as the primary means of photo identification; 'proof of age' cards were available for non-drivers. In New South Wales, these were replaced by photo cards in December 2005. Tasmania calls their equivalent card a 'personal information card'.
The Road and Traffic Authority of New South Wales
A ‘Demonstration’ Driver Knowledge Test for Learner Drivers
Road Users Handbook (PDF)
ACT Learner and Provisional Driver Licensing Requirements

Canada
Canada's driving age is determined on a province-by-province basis.

The driving age in the various Canadian provinces are:
Quebec:^[5]
Learners permit: Available at age 16 (with adult consent), with the passing of a multiple choice road theory test, a driving permit is issued which allows the learning driver to drive on roads accompanied by someone with full valid driver's licence.
Probationary licence: Available after having held a learners permit for 12 months or eight months if the driver has completed a certain number of driving lessons with recognized driving school. Probationary licence is acquired after successfully completing a road test.
Driver's licence: Finished a two year probationary period, if aged 16-24; or if the driver has passed the probationary licence driving test, if age 25 or older.
Ontario:^[6]
Learners permit (G1): Available at age 16, with the passing of a multiple choice road theory test, a driving permit is issued which allows the learning driver to drive on roads accompanied by someone with full valid driver's licence whose BAC is less than 0.08 and has been fully licensed for four years. The driver also cannot drive on 400-series highways and other high-speed expressways (unless accompanied by a licensed instructor) or between 12:00 AM - 5:00 AM and must maintain their own BAC at zero.
Probationary licence (G2): Available after having held a learners permit for 12 or eight months if the driver has completed and passed a ministry-approved driver education course. Probationary licence is acquired after successfully completing a road test. At this point the driver must still maintain a BAC of zero. As of 2005 teenage drivers with a G2 licence are restricted in the number of passengers under 19 that they can carry during night-time driving [2].
Full licence (G): After 1 year of possessing the G2 licence a driver can take an additional road test that often includes driving on a four lane divided highway. With successful completion they will obtain a full licence which carries no restrictions and are not required to take any further tests until 80 providing they renew their licence regularly. Drivers 80 years of age and over must complete a vision and knowledge test and participate in a 90-minute group education session to renew their licence, and the maximum number of years that a license can be issued for is two years.
Ontario has been using a graduated licensing system since 1994. A driver can take as little as 20 months to get a full licence, however a driver must have a full licence (G) within five years of obtaining a learners permit (G1).

The exact same process, except with other restrictions, is used for obtaining a motorcycle (M) licence.

In Ontario, there was a recently proposed legislation to deny driver's licences to high school dropouts until they turned 18. It was meant as an incentive for students to graduate.^[7]

Traffic Violations convictions usually come with demerit points against your licence. Although contrary to popular belief, the points have no direct impact on insurance rates, and rather are used by the Ministry of Transportation to determine license suspensions due to repeated traffic violations.
Nova Scotia:^[8]
For Class 7 or 8 licences, the Learner's stage of the system lasts for 6 months, which may be reduced to three months if a recognized driver education or training program is taken. Operating conditions at this stage include: No passengers, except an experienced driver who holds at least a Class 5 licence; and, zero blood alcohol level for the learning driver. suspensions will delay graduation to the newly licensed driver stage by the minimum time requirement; that is, three months if a recognized driver education or training program was taken, six months if not. Once a road test has been successfully completed, the learner becomes Newly Licensed for a minimum of two years. Operating conditions include: Zero blood alcohol level for the newly licensed driver; Only one front seat passenger and rear seat(s) passengers limited to the number of available seat belts; No upgrade beyond a Class 5 driver's licence; and, No driving between midnight and 5:00AM, unless accompanied by an experienced driver. A newly licensed driver may apply for an exemption from the night time driving curfew for employment purposes. The driver must take the most direct route to and from work, and is not permitted to have any passengers in the vehicle.
To "graduate" from the newly licensed driver stage, the driver must successfully complete a 6 hour Defensive Driving course or complete the full Driver Training Course (25 hours theory, 10 hours driving time). A copy of your graduation certificate must be provided, in person or by mail, to any Registry of Motor Vehicles office for recording purposes. Licence suspensions will delay graduation to the regular driver stage by two years from the date the licence is reinstated.
British Columbia:^[9]^[10]
Class 8L (Motorcycle Learner's Permit): This permit can be first obtained at age 16, just as the Class 7L. There are many restrictions until the rider passes a "Motorcycle skills Test," which is conducted on a parking lot and involves basic manoeuvering skills. After this test, the rider can ride alone, with much fewer restrictions.
Class 7L (Learner's Permit): This permit can first be obtained at age 16, and requires a person under the age of 19 to be accompanied by their parent/legal guardian. To obtain this permit, one must take a medical and knowledge test, which requires 80% to pass. A person holding this licence must be accompanied by a fully licensed driver over 25. The driver must maintain a blood-alcohol count of 0 (e.g. none in their blood), display a large 'L' decal on the back of their vehicle, have no more than two passengers (including the supervisor), and must not drive between 12AM-5AM. The 7L licence is good for two years. After 12 months (9 if the person has taken an approved driving course before March 31, 2007), the driver may take a 45 minute driving test to advance to the next level.
Class 7 (Novice Permit): Also called the "N" stage, the permit is obtained after completion of the Class 7L driving test. A Class 7 licence is good for five years, and the stage takes a minimum of two years to complete. Restrictions include 0 blood alcohol and a limit of one passenger (the limit being waived for anyone in the immediate family). Furthermore, any infraction of the traffic law by the possessor of a Class 7 Licence can result in a prohibition, after which the possessor must begin the Class 7N program from the start. After two years, the licence-holder may take the 60 minute Class 5 road test. Passage grants a full licence (a Class 5 passenger vehicle licence).
Class 6 (Motorcycle Licence): This licence allows the holder to operate a motorcycle with no restrictions.
Class 5 (Full Vehicle Licence): This is a full passenger-vehicle licence. It has no additional restrictions, unlike the Class 7 licences.
Class 4 (Commercial licence): Permits the holder to operate taxis, limousines, ambulances, special buses used to transport people with disabilities and other special vehicles - also permits the holder to operate vehicles in Class 5. Minimum age: 19.
Class 3 (Commercial licence, heavy trucks): Permits the holder to operate trucks with more than two axles, including dump trucks and large tow trucks - also permits the holder to operate vehicles in Class 5. Minimum age: 18.
Class 2 (Commercial licence, buses): Permits the holder to operate buses, including school buses, special activity buses and special vehicles - also permits the holder to operate vehicles in Classes 4 and 5. Minimum age: 19.
Class 1 (Commercial licence, semi-trailer): Permits the holder to operate semi-trailer trucks - also, permits the holder to operate all motor vehicles or combinations of vehicles except motorcycles. Minimum age: 19.
British Columbia has been using a graduated licensing system August 1998.^[11] The program was last revised in October 2003, which involved large changes in the time it took to acquire a licence (previously, a person could complete the Class 7L stage in as little as 3 months, and the Class 7N in 12, and no passenger limit was enforced above Class 7L). British Columbia requires new residents who hold UK driving licences to take a test but does exchange US licences.
Alberta:^[12]
Learner's Permit (Class 7): This permit can be obtained at 14 years of age, and can only be used when a non-probationary licensed driver (see below) over the age of 18 is accompanying the driver. However, mopeds may be driven without an accompanying driver. A knowledge test requiring a mark of at least 83% as well as a vision test must be passed.
Motorcycle / Moped (Class 6): This permit allows an operator to drive a motorcycle or moped. Minimum licensing age is 16.
Probationary Driver's Licence (Class 5, Probationary): This licence can be obtained at age 16 if the driver has had a Learner's Permit for at least a year. This licence allows one to drive without an accompanying fully licensed adult, although it has more restrictions than a non-probationary licence, including fewer allowed demerit points. A road test must be passed to obtain this licence.
Non-probationary Driver's Licence (Class 5): This licence can be obtained after having had the probationary Driver's Licence for two years without suspension, therefore the applicant must be at least 18 years of age. An advanced road test must be passed to obtain this licence. A driver with this licence is referred to as a "fully licensed driver".
Class 4: This permit allows the operator to drive a taxi, ambulance, or bus with seats for up to 24 passengers. Minimum learning or licensing age is 18.
Class 3: This permit allows an operator to drive a single motor vehicle with 3 or more axles, or a motor vehicle with 3 or more axles pulling a trailer with one or more axles (assuming the trailer does not have airbrakes).
Class 2: This permit allows an operator to operate any bus, in addition to the vehicles permitted by holders of class 3/4/5 permits. Minimum learning or licensing age is 18.
Class 1: This permit allows an operator to any motor vehicle except a motorcycle. Minimum learning or licensing age is 18.

European Union

Driving licences within the European Union are subdivided into different categories.
See also:European Driving Licence

In most European countries (after the standardisation of driving licences across the European Union in 1998) a person must be at least 17 or 18 years old to drive a car.^[13]
Categories valid in all EU countries

Category A: Motorcycles.
Category A limited: Motorcycles up to a maximum power of 25 kW.
Category A1: Light Motorcycles with a maximum engine capacity of 125 cm³ and a maximum power of 11 kW (minimum age: 16 years; speed limit of 80 km/h in some countries).
Category B: Passenger vehicle with a maximum mass of 3.5 t and not more than 8 seats (excluding the driver); with a trailer with a maximum mass of 750 kg, or the mass of an empty car if the total mass of both is less than 3.5 t.
Category C: Vehicles of more than 3.5 t mass and not more than 8 + 1 seats (lorry); with a trailer with a maximum mass of 750 kg.
Category C1: light lorry with a mass not more than 7.5 t; with a trailer with a maximum mass of 750 kg.
Category D: Vehicles with more than 8 + 1 seats (buses).
Category D1: light buses with a maximum of 16 + 1 seats.
Category E (combined only with B, C, C1, D or D1): other trailers which are heavier than 750 kg. In combination with C1E and D1E, the maximum total mass of vehicle and trailer is 12 tonnes and the mass of the empty vehicle must be higher than the mass of the trailer. Carrying passengers in a trailer of category D1E is prohibited. Some countries write the E before the other category, e.g. EB, ED. An articulated lorry is category EC.
Furthermore there are more national categories for tractors, very light motorcycles, motorised wheel chairs, motor tricycles (modern voiturettes, Category B1 or S) and military categories such as for driving tanks.
Denmark
In Denmark learners can start when they are 18 years old, only with an authorized driving teacher. The multiple choice theory test can be taken before the 18th birthday, but not the practical test. The theory test consists of slides with 25 pictures and 2-4 questions for each picture. Maximum of 5 errors is allowed. Category E is 20 pictures/4 errors.

Many people take category A and B at the same time, as well as C and C/E at the same time.

Denmark does not use the C1 and D1 categories. This means a truck (C) or a bus (D) licence covers all trucks or buses, respectively, that are not covered by the car (B) licence. A B/E licence only allows heavy trailers on cars, even if the driver has a C or D permit.

Tractor/Motorized equipment (T/M) permit can be obtained when the driver is 16 years old, as well as a moped licence. T/M allows driving a moped, but not the other way. Anyone older than 18 can drive a moped, and anyone with B licence can drive tractors and Motorized equipment. Motorized equipment would be things like combine harvesters, steam rollers, loaders, excavators and other vehicles driving maximum 30 km/h.

Driving forklifts requires a special permit.

Carrying hazardous goods requires an ADR permit.

Commercial passenger traffic (route bus, tourist bus, taxi) requires a 5-year licence.

The price of taking the multiple choice test is 580 DKK, and 580 DKK for any re-test if one should fail. The price of taking the practical test is included in the 580 DKK one pays for the multiple choice test, unless one should fail, in which case one will have to pay 580 DKK to take a new practical test. One has to take and pass the practical test no later than one year from the date which one took and passed the multiple choice test.

The law subscribes a minimum of hours in which the student must receive theoretical and practical instruction. It is now by law obligatory to take a first aid course for one to obtain a driving licence. Driving schools have a fixed agreement to charge 750 DKK for this course. Furthermore, one has to pass a test which consists of driving on slippery and wet ground, a session that takes several hours. There is around a month's wait on both the multiple choice test and the practical test. If one wishes to take either of these tests before a month has passed one has to meet at the driver's licence police office early in the morning to add one's name to a list that is read by the office when it opens. Those who wish to take a test earlier are then given the opportunity to book any cancelled tests. There is no guarantee that one receives a cancelled tests. Applicants often come in at 5-6 a.m. to add their name to the list, since ordering by phone or internet is impossible.

Some severe driving offences will incur a strike on one's license. This is logged in a central police database, and if one exceeds the maximum number of strikes, the license is lost, but can ultimately be reacquired. The maximum number of strikes are two for driver's license holders having held the license less than two years and three for everybody else.

The price of a driving licence in Denmark is ultimately in the neighborhood of 11000-12000 DDK (ca. $1800-$2000) depending on the number of tests one should fail and will have to take again.
Finland
In Finland, the car driver's training can be obtained either in a private driving school or given by a near relative who has a driver's licence. If the person is trained by a relative, the relative must obtain a special instructor's permit and have a car fitted and inspected with an extra set of brake pedals for the front passenger. The training for B class licence requires 30 hours of instructed driving, including a spell on a slippery driving course, and 20 theory lessons. After this, the person must pass a computerized theory test and a driving test in city traffic. C class training is similar, but longer.

The initial licence is issued for two years. During this time, the new driver may receive a maximum of two traffic fines in total. If the number of fines is exceeded, the licence is revoked and the driver is required to re-take the exam. Even with one fine, the interim period may be extended for a maximum of two years. During the interim period, the new driver must pass a short refresher course, which includes a slippery driving course, and participate in dark time driving training, unless this was part of the initial training. (Finnish lighting conditions prevent the dark time training during summer.)

The motorcycles are divided in three categories. Anyone born before 1985 may drive a moped. Persons born in 1985 or after may obtain a moped driver's licence at the age of 15. This requires passing a simple computerized theory exam. The A1 licence, allowing the use of light motorbikes, may be obtained at the age of 16. The practical training is done independently in traffic after a training permit has been obtained from the police. Theoretical training includes 12 theory lessons. A person who has A1 licence can get a full A licence after holding the A1 for two years. After the age of 21, a person can obtain the A licence directly, without holding an A1 licence first.

The use of tractors and motorized sleighs is allowed for anyone with a valid B class licence. However, it is possible to obtain the T class licence for these vehicles already at the age of 15 by passing a simple theory exam.
Netherlands
In the Netherlands, a driver's license can only be obtained by following lessons with a certified driving instructor. Lessons may commence when the candidate is aged 18 years or older. An instruction car must be equipped with an extra set of pedals in the passenger seat, which the instructor controls. The average price of a one hour lesson is €40. Typically, 30-50 hours of driving lessons are required to prepare for the exam, depending on how quickly the candidate learns. The candidate must pass a computerised theory test (€30) before they may undertake the final practical examination (€235), after which an official license may be obtained.

If three serious offenses are committed within five years of a license being issued to a new driver, the holder will have their license revoked and must undergo the examination process again to reobtain their license.

A moped can be driven by persons aged 16 or over who are in possession of a moped license (Category AM), which can be obtained after sitting a computerised theory test. Practical training or an examination are not required. Holders of an automobile license are allowed to drive a moped without any additional documents or testing.
Republic of Ireland
In the Republic of Ireland, learner drivers must complete a computerised theory test before obtaining a two year provisional licence in any category. In Ireland the EU categories are used, including A1, C1 and D1. Other categories of licence are M (motorcycles under 50cc, i.e. mopeds) and W (work vehicles, usually tractors). The driving ages are 17 for B category, 16 for M and W categories, 18 for A and C categories and 21 for D category. There is no compulsory driver education system or service other than the theory test. There is no graduated licence system for newly qualified drivers, except for newly qualified motorcycle drivers' engine size. Provisional Licence holders must be accompanied (except A and M categories and those on a second B provisional licence) by a full licence holder, may not use motorways and must display red 'L' plates. The waiting times for a test are usually over 1 year. There are over 400,000 Irish drivers on provisional B licences and there is a high failure rate of the test. As of June 2006, figures released by the Department of the Environment shocked the public when it emerged that over 29,000 drivers were in possession of their fifth or subsequent provisional licence. In real terms this means that these drivers have failed their driving test, maybe as many as four times. However, one does not necessarily have to fail their test in Ireland to be granted a subsequent provisional licence; if a driver misses a scheduled test, the appointment letter issued by the licensing authority can be used to obtain the provisional licence. This situation can be continued indefinitely, and has led to the widespread non-enforcement of the restrictions on provisional licence holders. People who have failed their driving test will typically drive home from it, as the licensing system is not linked to the testing system and those on their second provisional B licence do not have to be accompanied by a qualified driver.

There is a points system similar to other EU states. If a driver achieves 12 points his licence is lost.
Romania
The minimum driving age is 18.[3]
Sweden
Swedish driving licences (Swedish: Körkort) adhere to the EEA-standard. A learner's permit can be issued from 16 years of age. The student may choose to learn by going to a driving school or in private with up to four different instructors. Usually a mix of the two ways is used. These private instructors must be 24 or older and have hold a valid driver's licence for the last five years. The instructors and student must go through a traffic safety course together before permission is granted - this takes about 3 hours to complete and is usually given at all driving schools at certain dates.

When the driving student reaches the age of 18 he or she is allowed to take a theory test (Swedish: Kunskapsprov) - to pass a score of 52 out of 65 questions is required. After or before the theory test the student must attend a hazard lesson (Swedish: Riskutbildning), which may, for instance, take place at a track which is sprayed with oil to make it slippery. First the student learns about the human factor and other dangers in traffic; after that they drive the course and try to make the car spin out of control on purpose to get a feeling and understanding how to act during these situations.

When both of these are finished the student takes a driving test and if the student successfully completes this test, the driver's licence is granted and usually comes by mail a few days later. Until then the student is handed a signed note by the test inspector which serves as a valid drivers license until the actual card is collected (though no longer then 12 months, after which the right to a drivers license is forfeith if it has not been collected). 18 is the minimum age in order to obtain a car driver's license in Sweden.^[14] The licences are issued by the Swedish National Road Administration. After the licence is granted there are no kinds of restriction on new drivers except the fact that the two first years are considered a test time (Swedish: Prövoperiod). If the driver commits a serious traffic offense during this time which would cost other drivers their licence for a certain amount of time, the newly licensed driver loses it altogether and must retake the driving test altogether after that time to regain it.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the driving age for a car or van is 17 (unless in receipt of a full disability allowance, when you can obtain a provisional licence at the age of 16 years), while a moped or restricted-power motorcycle can be ridden at 16.^[15] Until a driving test has been passed (which consists of three sections: a theory test, a hazard perception test (Part of the Theory Test), and a supervised driving examination) a driver will hold a Provisional Licence and must display learner plates (a large red L on a white background, or optionally a large red D (Welsh: Dysgwr) on a white background if the learner does not leave Wales) on the front and back of the vehicle. Learner drivers must be accompanied by somebody aged at least 21 who has held a full driving licence for three years [4], and are not permitted on motorways [5]. In Northern Ireland, learner drivers are limited to a speed of 45mph (72 km/h), and drivers who have passed their test within the previous year must display "R" plates (restricted) and are also limited to a speed of 45mph (72 km/h) until the expiry of the restricted period. "R" plates are similar in style to "L" plates, with a thick-set dark orange R displayed on a white background.

The average student driver in the UK has anything between 20 and 50 hours instruction with an ADI (driving instructor) before applying to take the test. The driving test is 35-45 minutes in length, and students are allowed up to 15 'driving faults' (such as being in the wrong gear), but an accumulation of driving faults, or a 'serious' or 'dangerous' fault leads to a fail.

UK licences distinguish between automatic and manual vehicles. Whilst a manual vehicle licence permits the holder to drive a vehicle of either kind, an automatic vehicle licence is solely for an automatic vehicle.

After passing a driving test, the provisional licence changes into a full UK licence for the relevant kind of vehicle, although full car licences allow use of mopeds and motorcycles provided a CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) course is completed. There are no extra speed/signage/alcohol consumption restrictions on newly passed drivers (unlike some other countries) and the same set of rules applies for all drivers. It is optional to display newly passed green on white 'P' plates on the vehicle of newly passed drivers.

Forklift trucks can be driven off-road without licence, however the law requires that some prior training or instruction has to be provided, whether informal or otherwise. Forklift truck licences are issued by third party training companies and not by the UK DVLA/DSA which regulates all other vehicles.

Registration was introduced in 1903 with the Motor Car Act. Competency tests were introduced in 1934 by the Motor Vehicles Regulations 1935; they were suspended in 1939 for seven years due to the Second World War and in 1956 for one year due to the Suez Crisis. The only person in the United Kingdom who is not required to have a driving licence in order to drive is the Queen. She also does not require number plates on any of her cars.^[16]

Until July 1998,^[17] driving licences outside Northern Ireland did not have photographs. Anyone who holds a licence issued before this date may retain their photo-less licence until expiry (normally one's seventieth birthday) or until they change address, whichever comes sooner. The new "photocard" driving licences are a two-part document, a plastic photocard which has to be renewed every ten years, and a paper sheet (the "Counterpart Driving Licence") which is valid until the holder's seventieth birthday. The Counterpart details the individual's driving entitlements and convictions ("Endorsements"). Endorsement codes stay on the licence for 4-11 years depending on the offence.

The UK uses the point system to handle repeat offenders. Points are given for traffic offences, e.g. typically three to six points for a speeding offence. Points remain on the licence for four years from conviction (eleven years for drink- and drug-related convictions) - twelve points on the licence makes the driver liable to disqualification by a court, but not automatic disqualification, contrary to popular belief. Since the coming into force of the Road Traffic (New Drivers) Act 1995 in 1997, if a person in the two years after passing their first practical test accumulates six penalty points, their licence is revoked by the DVLA and the driver has to reapply and pay for the provisional licence, drive as a learner, and pay for and take the theory and practical tests before being allowed to drive on their own. In the case of particularly egregious offences, the court may order the driver to pass an extended driving test before the licence is returned, even for people out of the two-year probation period.

Licences issued to residents of England, Northern Ireland and Scotland appear only in English, whilst those issued to residents of Wales appear in both English and Welsh.

Each licence holder has a unique driver number, which is 16 characters long. The characters are constructed in the following way^[18]:
1-5: The first 5 characters of the Surname (Padded with 9s if less than 5 characters)
6: The decade digit from the year of birth (e.g. for 1987 it would be 8)
7-8: The month of birth (7th character incremented by 5 if driver is female e.g 51-62)
9-10: The date of birth
11: The year digit from the year of birth (e.g. for 1987 it would be 7)
12-13: The first two initials of the first names, padded with a 9 if no middle name. (or a 0)
14-16: Three computer check digits (the first mostly being a 9)

See also: UK Driving Licence codes

India
In India, being a state matter, each state has a "Regional Transport Authority or "RTOs" (Regional Transport Offices) that issues licences. Minimum age is 18 years for all vehicles, however mopeds and small motorscooters may be driven at age 14. Drivers have to appear for an oral test to get a learners licence which is valid for 6 months. Drivers can then pass a driving test to get the driver's licence. In many states of India, a learner's licence is granted after passing a written test and then if one passes the practical test, one receives a full licence. There are different categories of licence such as Motorcycle, Light Motor Vehicle (LMV), and Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV). Most of the legislation as regarding licensing is done through the 'Rules of the Road Regulation' and the Motor Vehicle Act 1988. As per the MV Act, every vehicle should have 1) Certificate of Registration 2) Certificate of Taxation 3) Certificate of Insurance 4) A Fitness Certificate (in case it is a public transport vehicle) India's first smart card system in Gujarat

The driver of the vehicle should have the original copy of the driving licence. He/she should also have an additional Badge if he/she is driving a taxi or any other public transport vehicle. A police officer or any other official notified by the government can ask for the vehicle-related documents, and the driver would have to produce them within 24 hours at the police station (or the concerned department). The law permits the officials to seize the driving licence, and issue a temporary one for a specified time. The law also allows the state government to fix the amount of fines/jail terms for minor traffic violations, and who has the rights to enforce these rules .
Licences and Other Services Provided by Traffic Authorities and RTOs in India
Driving Licence in India

Israel
In Israel, someone 17 years old can receive a Type B license (passenger car, after the standardization of the Israeli driving licence to the European ones). After receiving both a medical and eye checkup, (and paying a fee at the local post office) an applicant can take a 30 question multiple-choice test. Before taking the actual driving test, they must receive at least 28 lessons at a certified driving school. After successfully passing the internal driving school test, the instructor will arrange the test, which will be taken in the driving school's vehicle. If someone fails either the written or driving test, they must wait at least two weeks before retaking it, as well as repaying the testing fee. Once the driving test has been successfully passed, the licensing authority will issue a temporary license together with a payment voucher. Once the fee has been paid, the actual license will be sent in the mail. The total cost for all license related fees is around $900, increasing by $100 for every test retake.

For the first three months, the new licensee must be accompanied by someone over 24 with a license for at least 5 years, or someone over 30, with a valid license over 3 years. In addition, during the first two years, the new driver must hang a sign reading "נהג חדש-New Driver" in black letters on a yellow background. Anyone failing to comply with these requirements is subject to be fined and tried in traffic court for driving without a license. If a new driver violates a traffic law, one may be required to retake the written and driving test.

Anyone possessing a foreign driving license residing in Israel for more than 12 months must convert their driving license. The applicant is required to undergo both a medical checkup and eye checkup. After applying at the local license authority office for an exemption from the written test and the requirement for 28 lessons, one is required to take one driving lesson, pay for a test at the local post office, and the instructor will arrange for an abbreviated driving test. If the applicant fails two such tests, they must pass the written test before retaking a thorough driving test.

Guide to Driving and Vehicle Licenses in Israel
New Zealand
New Zealand has had a graduated driver licence system since 1987. It consists of three phases for a car licence:
A Learner License which is gained after scoring 32 out of 35 (or better) on a multiple-choice test relating to road rules. Once gained, it allows a learner to drive provided they display black-on-yellow learner plates and are accompanied by a "supervisor" (being any person who has held a Full licence for at least two years). The learner licence is a blue plastic card, and can be applied for any time after the age of 15.
A Restricted License is able to be obtained after having held a Learner licence for at least six months and passing a twenty-minute practical driving test. This allows a driver to drive without L-plates, or a supervisor, between 5am and 10pm. Drivers are only allowed to carry certain passengers with them. These passengers are limited to spouses, a person over 18 who has held a full licence for at least 2 years, and dependents. All other passengers are only allowed to be carried as long as one of the passengers has held a full licence for longer than 2 years. Failure to meet this requirement can incur a $400 fine, with liability going to the driver of the vehicle. The restricted licence is a yellow plastic card.
A Full License, which requires the driver to have held a Restricted licence for eighteen months, or twelve months for someone who has taken a defensive driving course. However, if you are aged over 25, you only have to spend six months on a restricted license or three months upon completion of a defensive driving course. The driver must pass a more thorough, hour-long driving test. It allows a driver to drive at any time with passengers and, after two years, to supervise Learner and Restricted drivers. It is a green plastic card.
Alternatively, people who gained a licence before 1987 can usually obtain a Full licence without needing to take a driving test.

Holders of overseas licences may be required to take a driving test before they qualify for a full New Zealand license. Holders of licenses from countries with similar road rules to New Zealand are required to take a theory test within one year of arrival, during which time they may continue to drive on their foreign drivers license provided it is either written in English, or they have an authorised English translation available.

Since a Learner licence can be applied for at age 15, the minimum possible age to gain a Full licence is sixteen and a half. In recent years, there have been proposals to raise the minimum driving licensing age to 17 or 18, but so far they have never come to pass, due to objections from farmers who say that their children need to learn to drive early in life because of limited public transport.

The car licence allows the holder to drive a moped, tractor, or all-terrain vehicle as well as a car, however, motorbikes and heavy vehicles require separate licences.

Driver licences carry a unique identifying number, date of birth and photograph of the holder, and apart from passports and a special-purpose 18+ card are the only legal form of ID for buying alcohol or tobacco. They also carry a legend declaring whether or not the holder wishes to donate his or her organs if he or she dies on the road; however, the next-of-kin are consulted first and decide whether or not organs will be donated regardless of the wishes of the licence-holder.

Drivers must carry their licence at all times while driving. If they fail to do so they may face a fine of NZ$55.
Land Transport Safety Authority car licensing site

Norway
Norwegian driving licences (Bokmål: Førerkort, Nynorsk: Førarkort) adhere to the EEA-standard. One of the more peculiar security features is Ivar Aasen's poem Nordmannen engraved in minuscule writing in the lower right corner on the back, as well as lines from Hávamál.

Minimum age for cars is 18 years. Mopeds (50 cc, max 45 km/h), smaller motorcycles (engine capacity equal to, or less than 125 cubic centimetres) and tractors are 16 years. Most larger truck licences require holder to be 21 years old. Although Norway is not part of the EU, the licence is in the form of an EU licence. At the age of 16, you are allowed to drive accompanied by a parent, as long as you've finished a course called "trafikalt grunnkurs" (traffic elementary course). This "trafikalt grunnkurs" course will cost you $270-$415, depending on different seasons of the year. Some secondary schools offer a "trafikalt grunnkurs" along with a moped or tractor course, which is significantly cheaper than regular driving schools.

Since January 1, 2004, the point system (Norwegian: Prikkbelastning) is used by Norwegian authorities to handle traffic offenders. Two points will be issued for most violations except for in the smallest speeding cases. If eight points or more is issued during a three-year period, the driving licence holder loses the right to drive for six months.
(Norwegian) Statens Vegvesen (Directorate of Public Roads) - explanation of the point system
In Norway it is not unusual to end up paying in excess of 4,000USD for a driving licence
Pakistan
In Pakistan, driving licences can be obtained by applying to any traffic police office/licensing authority in applicant's place of abode.

Any person male/female of the minimum age of 18 years can apply for a driving licence. The applicant must show his/her National Identity Card and must be able to read a car number plate from a distance of 20.5 meter (65'). Driving licences issued in Pakistan carry no security features. Some are as basic as a laminated piece of paper with the essential information and photo of the licensee with a stamp and signature of a high ranking traffic police official.

There are tests and procedures involved in getting a licence in Pakistan.
Pakistan Driving License

Philippines
There are three types of driver's license in the Philippines, Student Permit, Non-Professional driver's license, and Professional Driver's license. The minimum age for driving in the Philippines is 16 years old provided that they must have a student permit and must be accompanied by a person with a professional driver's license.

Age Requirements for licenses:
1) Student Permit - Must be at least 16 years old
2) Non-Professional - Must be at least 17 years old
3) Professional - Must be at least 18 years old
Restrictions:
Restriction 1 - Motorcycles/Motorized Tricycles
Restriction 2 - Vehicle up to 4500kg Gross Vehicle Weight
Restriction 3 - Vehicle above 4500kg Gross Vehicle Weight
Restriction 4 - Automatic Clutch up to 4500kg Gross Vehicle Weight
Restriction 5 - Automatic Clutch above 4500kg Gross Vehicle Weight
Restriction 6 - Articulated Vehicle 1600kg Gross Vehicle Weight & Below
Restriction 7 - Articulated Vehicle 1601kg up to 4500kg Gross Vehicle Weight
Restriction 8 - Articulated Vehicle 4501kg & above Gross Vehicle Weight
Note: Restrictions 1, 2, & 4 only for Non-professional driver's license.
Philippine Driving License

People's Republic of China
Minimum age varies from 18 (for cars) all the way up to 26 (for large buses) in the People's Republic of China. Learner's licences, although granted, have little effect, as most training takes place within the confines of specially-designed training areas inaccessible, on paper, to the general motoring public. Previously, expressways were inaccessible even for holders of a normal driver's licence if they did not possess the licence for a full year; however, such a regulation has now been invalidated. Drivers with licences less than a year old, however, are still considered "intern drivers" or "new drivers" (Simplified Chinese: 实习司机; Pinyin: shíxí siji), and certain limitations apply to them (for example, they must display a uniform label on the car when they are driving). The PRC considers the driving licence, under a new law, an administrative licence (Simplified Chinese: 行政许可; Pinyin: xíngzhèng xuke).

It should be noted that some areas do not issue motorcycle licenses or three wheeler licenses any more. This promotes driving without a license, a fake license or an illegally purchased license.
Russia
Russia was one of a first countries to ever adopt driver's licences, with first ones issued in 1900 by Saint-Petersburg authorities, and joined international convention in 1909, but due to relatively small number of automobiles these attempts were rather sporadic and limited to major centers only. No comprehensive system of drivers' licensing were present until 1936, when Soviet government finally organized and standardized traffic and driving regulations, with this state-wide system to be regulated by specialized police authorities.

Currently Russia employ a system of driver's licences very similar to EU standard with two additional categories:
A2 similar to European A limited, as A does not limit the specs of motorbikes
Bikes with engine displacements lower than 50 cc and speeds lower than 50 km/h are considered mopeds and doesn't require licence to drive
B1 for tricycles and quadracycles
Current licence style, introduced in 1999, is a laminated plastic card similar to the EU licence card in dimensions and outward appearance, with bearer's photo to the left and name (in Latin and Cyrillic scripts), place/date of issue, allowed categories and signature to the right. Reverse of a card feature a detailed list of allowed categories in Russian. Older booklet-style licences are also to be seen sometimes, however as they aren't issued anymore and licences are to be renewed each 10 years, they are increasingly rare. Licence is also sometimes supplemented by a special card called "временное разрешение" (temporal permission), which serves for registering an offense points and as a temporal licence if main one is seized by authorities for serious traffic offences. This supplement is abolished and reinstated a countless number of times following a current views in the traffic police.

Legal driving age is 18 years and to obtain a licence one have to be physically fit to driving (including a certificates of mental fitness and lack of registration as a substance abuser) and have to pass the test at the local traffic police authorities for a certain fee. Tests are divited to theory and practice. Theory test is usually the computerized multiple-choice test on traffic rules. 20 questions are asked with 5 answer options provided for each question, with two incorrect answers allowed for passing the test. Practice ride includes a demonstration of basic driving skills (steering, slope starting for a manual transmission cars and backwards driving) on an obstacle course and road driving. Five errors are allowed for obstacle course and road drive is basically a pass-fail system. Number of retries is unlimited.
Singapore
The classification of motor vehicles and eligibility of a driving licence in Singapore is as follows:
Class 1: Invalid Carriages
Class 2B: Motor cycles with an engine capacity not exceeding 200cc.
Class 2A: Motor cycles with an engine capacity between 201cc and 400cc.
Class 2: Motor cycles with an engine capacity exceeding 400cc.
Class 3: Manual & Automatic transmission motor cars of unladen weight not exceeding 2500 kg.
Class 3A: Automatic transmission motor cars of unladen weight not exceeding 2500 kg.
Class 4: Motor tractors of an unladen weight not exceeding 7250 kg but exceeds 2500 kg.
Class 5: Motor vehicles of an unladen weight exceeding 7250 kg.
The minimum age to drive a motorcar and getting a Class 3/3A Qualified Driving Licence (QDL) in Singapore is 18 years old. A learner who wishes to commence on practical driving lessons must acquire a Provisional Driving Licence (PDL) before driving on public roads and operating a motorcar. You can only apply for a PDL if you pass a multiple choice test known as the Basic Theory Test, which can be taken at any of the established driving schools in Singapore. This licence itself carries several restrictions, some of which are listed below:
A Certified Driving Instructor (CDL) must be present to guide the learner driver.
A learner driver is not allowed to use the expressway.
A "L" plate must be placed at the front and rear of the car.
A learner driver must complete the Final Theory Test before he may apply for the Practical Driving Test conducted by the Traffic Police.
Upon the passing of a Final Theory Test, the learner driver can then proceed to take the Practical Driving Test. A driving licence will be issued upon the passing of the Practical Driving Test. The novice licence holder undergoes a 1 year probation period. During this period, he is required to display one triangular plate at the top right portion of the front windscreen, and the another triangular plate at the top right portion of the rear windscreen. The driver must not accumulate 13 or more demerit points within a period of 12 months will have the licence revoked. Failing to abide by these rules will result in licence being revoked or suspension from driving.

If you hold a foreign driving licence and intend to remain in Singapore for less than twelve months, you are not required to convert your foreign driving licence to a Singapore driving licence. You may drive in Singapore with a valid foreign driving licence. However, if your licence is not in English, in addition to a valid foreign driving licence, you are required to have an International Driving Permit. If an International Driving Permit is not available, an official translation of your driving licence in English is required.

To convert to a Singapore driving licence, you are required to pass the Basic Theory Test (BTT) which will familiarise you with traffic rules and Singapore's Highway Code pertaining to traffic related issues peculiar to Singapore. A Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) who wishes to drive in Singapore is required to convert his foreign driving licence after becoming a PR.

Driving under the influence of alcohol and using a mobile phone while driving (without a hands-free set) are serious offences. In addition to your licence being revoked, the offender may be charged in court and be fined and or jailed.
Singapore Traffic Police's website on Driving in Singapore

Switzerland
Since the 2000s, Switzerland uses the EU system of vehicle categories, issues EU-style credit-card licences and has generally adopted much of the harmonised EU legislation with regard to drivers' licences.

To apply for a car driver's licence (category B), the applicant must be 18 years old. They must first pass a theoretical exam to receive a learner's permit valid for two years. This allows them to drive a car. A so called "conduite assisté" meaning assisted driving in french can be obtained at 17 years of age but the driver must drive with an adult 23 or older who has had his licence for 5 years. During the two years ,after having obtained a licence, eight hours of theoretical traffic instruction by a cantonally certified driving instructor must be attended. Practical driving lessons are not legally required, but are considered a de facto prerequisite for passing the practical exam with a government expert, which around two thirds of trainees manage to do on the first attempt.

Since 2005, the driver's licence issued upon passing the practical exam is no longer permanent, but valid for three years only. In this time, two days of further training must be completed and no serious infractions of the rules of the road are allowed, or the permanent licence is not acquired.

For motorcycles and heavier vehicles, the regulations are different, and some agrarian vehicles can be driven without a licence. As of 2006, a 45-minute driving lesson costs around 90 CHF, while the various fees and theoretical instruction costs associated with getting a car driver's licence can amount to up to CHF 600, without counting the costs for the two days of further training.

To assist with the integration of foreign residents, some cantons such as Bern have recently stopped allowing the theoretical exam to be taken in any languages other than German, French, Italian and English. This measure is also being discussed at the national level.
Taiwan
Driver licences are categorized pursuant to the Road Traffic Security Rules in Taiwan ():
An ordinary driver licence for a small vehicle (Traditional Chinese: 小型車普通駕駛執照) is good for a vehicle with up to 9 seats including the driver and a gross weight up to 3500 kg. A light trailer, i.e. with a gross weight up to 750 kg may be towed. A holder of this licence may also drive a light motorcycle, i.e. up to 50 cm³ or 5 horsepowers.
An ordinary driver licence for a heavy truck (Traditional Chinese: 大貨車普通駕駛執照) is good for a heavier truck as well as a vehicle that may be driven with a small vehicle license. A light trailer may be towed.
An ordinary driver licence for a bus (Traditional Chinese: 大客車普通駕駛執照) is good for a bus with more than 9 seats including the driver as well as a vehicle that may be driven with a heavy truck licence. A light trailer may be towed.
An ordinary driver licence for a combination vehicle (Traditional Chinese: 聯結車普通駕駛執照) is good to tow a heavy trailer, i.e. with a gross weight of more than 750 kg, as well as a vehicle that may be driven with a bus licence.
A professional driver licence for a small vehicle (Traditional Chinese: 小型車職業駕駛執照) is good for occupational purposes to drive a vehicle that may be driven with an ordinary small vehicle licence, especially a taxi.
A professional driver licence for a heavy truck (Traditional Chinese: 大貨車職業駕駛執照) is good for occupational purposes to drive a vehicle that may be driven with an ordinary heavy truck licence.
A professional driver licence for a bus (Traditional Chinese: 大客車職業駕駛執照) is good for occupational purposes to drive a vehicle that may be driven with an ordinary bus licence.
A professional driver licence for a combination vehicle (Traditional Chinese: 聯結車職業駕駛執照) is good for occupational purposes to drive a vehicle that may be driven with an ordinary combination vehicle licence.
An International Driving Permit (Traditional Chinese: 國際駕駛執照) multilingually translates a Taiwanese licence and is good abroad where honoured. As the Republic of China has lost diplomatic relations with most countries since the 1970s, certain countries do not honour international driving permits from Taiwan.
A driver licence for a light motorcycle (Traditional Chinese: 輕型機器腳踏車駕駛執照) is good for a light motorcycle, i.e. up to 50 cm³ or 5 horsepower, but not any more powerful one considered more risky to drive.
A driver licence for a heavy motorcycle (Traditional Chinese: 重型機器腳踏車駕駛執照) is also good for a heavy motorcycle, but no new licence of this type is issued since a separate licence for an ultra-heavy motorcycle (see below) is issued.
A driver licence for an ordinary heavy motorcycle (Traditional Chinese: 普通重型機器腳踏車駕駛執照) is good for a motorcycle up to 250 cm³ or 40 horsepower.
A driver licence for an ultra-heavy motorcycle (Traditional Chinese: 大型重型機器腳踏車駕駛執照) is also good for a more powerful motorcycle.

The minimum age pursuant to Article 60 is normally 18, but one must be at least 20 to get a professional licence or a licence for an ultra-heavy motorcycle. A professional licence must be converted to an ordinary one upon 60 years old, but a professional small vehicle driver may keep the licence until 65 years old when passing annual physical examinations. Since driving job is not open to foreigners, foreigners cannot get professional driver licences.
United States

North Carolina driver's license (censored for security), showing some of the security features which relate to the Wright Brothers. Note: the holograms are not visible due to the way in which the document was scanned. New NC driver's licenses contain RFID, a bump that can be felt, under the North American Logo visible on the back of the license.

In the United States, the driving age is determined by the state or territory, with the most common age being sixteen. The minimum age for a license varies from 14 years 3 months to 18 years. Most states and territories also have learner driver's licenses (also called learner's permit), which allow a person to drive provided they are accompanied by a licensed driver. There has also been a trend toward "graduated driver's licenses," in which new (especially young) drivers are gradually allowed more driving privileges instead of being given complete driving privileges all at once. Learner's permits are granted by some states to drivers as young as fourteen. Some states also issue driver's licenses to 14 or 15 year old drivers to drive alone. New Jersey issues licenses to 17 year olds and in New York City only those over 18 with drivers ed are permitted to drive alone.

In all of these states, the laws which apply are those of the state in which the driver operates the motor vehicle. (Example: a 14 year-old learner's permit holder in Arkansas would have to wait until 14½ to drive in Montana, or a 16 year-old driver's license holder from West Virginia must follow all learner's permit standards for driving in Pennsylvania until he or she turns 16½).

The United States has a common system of license classes among all states, which is important, especially for commercial drivers who cross state lines:

Commercial Driver's Licenses (CDL)

Class A: Combination vehicle of 26,000 lbs (11,790 kg) or more

Class B: Single (straight) vehicle of 26,000 lbs (11,790 kg) or more (also includes most busses)

Class C: Commercial vehicle that doesn't fit classes A or B, but is placarded for hazardous materials or is intended to carry 14 passengers or more (excluding Georgia)

Standard Qualified Driver's Licenses

Class D: Passenger vehicle (although this category is universal, the actual title varies by state: for example, Mississippi calls this Class R, while Texas calls it Non Commercial Class C, Georgia calls this Class C, Florida calls this Class E and Hawaii calls it Class 4)

Class E: Taxi Driver or Chauffeur. Taxi driver licensing in the United States is somewhat complicated. A Class E (or similar) licesnse is issued by the state department or agency with the power to issue driver's licenses. Not all state licensing boards (such as Massachusetts) require or issue a chauffeur license. However, regardless of whether a license is required at the state level or not, a license or permit must be obtained from local authorites to operate a taxi, usually the city or county one wishes to drive in. This is separate to and must be obtained in addition to any license required at the state level.

Class M: Motorcycle-{excluding any motorcycle 50cc and under} (unlike in Europe, the United States does not differentiate between low and full powered motorcycles for the purposes of licensing)

Some states also have additional classifications. Hawaii, for example has a separate license category for drivers who only operate mopeds. South Carolina has non-commercial versions of every commercial class license.

Commercial Driver's License Endorsements

Professional drivers are usually required to add endorsements to their CDL in order to drive certain types of vehicles that require additional training, such as those equipped with air brakes. CDL endorsements are also common among all states, and the training and testing requirements are regulated by the Federal Government. Endorsements are as follows:

P: Passenger Transport (Required to drive a bus that carries 14 people or more)

H: Hazardous Materials (Also requires a TSA criminal background check as well as a written exam. You must be a US Citizen to obtain an H or X endorsement.)

N: Tank Vehicles, Required for carrying liquids in bulk

T: Double/ Triple Trailers (Road trains) (Class A licenses only)

X: Hazardous Materials and Tank Combination

L: Air Brakes

S: School Bus (Also requires a TSA criminal background check, a sex offender registry check, and a "P" endorsement.)

In the U.S., minimum driving ages vary from state to state ranging from 14 to 18. Some examples are below. The minimum age for a Commercial Driver's License is typically 21, except for school bus drivers, which is sometimes as high as 25, although some individual states permit drivers who are 18 to apply for a non HazMat, non school bus intrastate only CDL.
Alabama: 14 years, 6 months (learner's permit), 16 years (License upon having learner's permit for 6 months)
Alaska: Small Motorcycle: 14 years; Automobile: 14 years (Learner's Permit), 16 years (Provisional license with restrictions), 6 months after receiving provisional license and completion of several requirements (Full license)
Arizona: 15 years 7 months (Learners permit upon completion of 30 question written test), 16 years provisional license, 18 years unrestricted license^[19]
Arkansas: 14 years (learner's permit), 16 years (restricted license), 18 years (unrestricted license)
California: Automobile: 15 Years, 6 months (Learner's Permit upon completion of classroom and registration of behind the wheel classes of driver's education), 16 years restricted license.
Colorado: 15 years (with drivers ed), 16 years (without drivers ed) (learner's permit), 16 years (with drivers ed), 17 years (without drivers ed) (license)
Connecticut: 16 years, 6 months (16 years, 4 months with Driver's Education)
Delaware: 16 years (learner's permit), 16 years 6 months (restricted license)
District of Columbia: 16 years (learner's permit), 16 years, 6 months (provisional license), 17 years (full license)
Florida: 15 years (Learner's Driver License ), must have learner's license for one year; 16 years full license (16-year olds may drive unaccompanied from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., or with a driver 21 years and older from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.;when completing the year with the permit 17-year olds may drive unaccompanied. Age 18 no restriction.
Georgia: 15 years (learner's permit), must have learner's permit for one year and one day before applying for License, (16: Provisional Class D License, allowed to drive with only one passenger outside immediate family, after 6 months can drive up to 3 persons, 18: Full Class C License)
Hawaii: 15.5 (learner's permit), 16 with parental consent^[20]
Idaho : 14 years (in daylight), 15 years.
Illinois : 15 years (Learner's Permit), after 9 months - 16 (License with restriction) (30 hours of Classroom Study and 10 hours of Behind-the-Wheel driving with a Certified Driving Instructor and 50 hours of driving with a parent/guardian as well as 12 hours of Night driving and the 6 hours of the Behind the Wheel segment count as part of the 50 hours of driving. (Changed August 2007.
Indiana: [One can take Drivers Education at 14 years 7 months though not required] 15 years [Learner's Permit] , 16 years 1 month [Restricted License] with an approved Driver's Education course, 16 years 6 months without [Restricted License]
Iowa : GDL system (Approved Driver's Education Course required for all licenses/permits ages 14-18 with the exception of the learner's permit, parent consent required for all licenses/permits years 14-18): 14 years (learner's permit, may drive with family member 21 or over and anyone with a full license 25 and older, written or computerized test of road knowledge required), 14 years (moped license), 14.5 years (minor's school license; must live 1+ miles from school (although, it is up to the school's administrator whether or not to enforce the 1+ rule), may drive to any official school event or activity within the district of residence or a contiguous school district), 16 years (license with restriction: Can not drive between the hours of 12:30 am to 5 am, unless you apply for a waiver), 17 years (full license), 21 years (full license with a Blood Alcohol Content of .08)
Kansas: 14 years (learner's permit), 15 years (restricted license), 16 (full license)
Kentucky: 16 years (learner's permit), 16 years 6 months (restricted license), 17 years (full license)
Louisiana: 15 years (with parent), 16 years (full license with BAC of .02) *Under 17 years of age restricts driving from 11pm-5am central time
Maine: 15 years and a certificate of completion from a licensed driving school to obtain a learner's permit. 16 years and 6 months following the issue date of the permit to obtain a driver's license. License is provisional for first six month, forbidding driving between 12:00 AM - 5:00 AM, and also carrying passengers other than immediate family.
Maryland: 15 years, 9 months (learner's permit) 16 years, 3 months (provisional license) 17 years, 9 months (full license)
Massachusetts: 16 years (learner's permit after passing a written test on the rules of the road), 16 1/2 years (restricted junior operator license after driver's education (30 hours of classroom instruction and 12 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a certified driving instructor) as well as 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent, guardian, or designee), during the junior operator phase, driving between 12:30am and 5am is forbidden without a parent in the vehicle, as is driving with passengers under the age of 18 for the first six months that one has a junior operator license. 18 (unrestricted license, .02 BAC legal limit), 21 (unrestricted license, .08 BAC legal limit). Several proposals have been made to raise the minimum age for a driver's license to 17 1/2 or 18, and/or extend the restricted junior operator's phase to age 21, but this has been repeatedly shot down by the Massachusetts Legislature.
Michigan: 14 years, 8 months and completion of driver education segment 1 (Graduated Driver License (GDL) Level 1 aka "learner's permit"), nighttime restrictions 16 years, possess GDL Level 1, 50 hours driving experience, complete driver education segment 2, and pass road test (GDL Level 2 - no nighttime restrictions), 17 years and possess GDL Level 2 (GDL Level 3 - full license). All drivers under 18 must enroll in an educational course to receive a license, or the passing of a written test if a license was obtained elsewhere.^[21]
Minnesota: 15 years (learner's permit, upon completing certified driver's education and behind the wheel courses, and passing a written test) drivers using a learners permit may only drive with a licensed adult age 21 or older, 16 years (license-must have had permit for six months)
Mississippi: 15 years:learner's permit;15 6 months: intermediate license(must have permit for 6 months);16 years:full license
Missouri: 15 years (learner's permit), 16 years (intermediate license; some restrictions), 18 years (full license)
Montana: 14 years, 6 months (traffic education learner's permit), 16 years (normal learner's permit or restricted license, after 50 hours training and 6 months with learner's permit), 18 years or one year after restricted license whichever is sooner (full license).
Nebraska: 14 years, 3 months (learner's permit), 60 days after issuance of learner's permit and 50 hours of documented driving - 14 years, 5 months (school permit), 16 years (provisional operators license), 17 (operator's license)
Nevada : 15 years, 6 months (learner's permit), 16 years old (license after 50 hours of behind the wheel experience and 10 hours night time driving while having learners permit)
New Hampshire : 15 years, 6 months with an adult 25 or Older (no formal "learner's permit" required). 16-17: Junior Operators License, 18: Full License
New Jersey: 16 years (learner's permit) after completing a written test and 6 hours with a commercial driving school (required for at least 6 months), 17 years (provisional license) no driving between 12:01 pm and 5:01 am and only one non household member in the car under 18 unless a licenced driver of 21 or older is sitting in the front passenger seat, 18 years (full license aka. basic auto licence)
New Mexico: 15 years (instructional permit), 15 years, 6 months (provisional license), 16 years 6 months (full license)
New York: 16 years (learner permit), upon passage of road test within 6 months of having learner's permit and under 18 years (limited junior license: unsupervised driving only allowed between limited destinations), upon passage of road test after 6 months of having learner's permit and under 18 years (junior license: driver must be accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 between the hours of 9pm and 5am), 17 years with driver's education or 18 years (unrestricted license).
North Carolina: You must be 14 years and 6 months of age to complete driver's education. At age 15, you are eligible to receive a learner's permit. After holding the permit for one year without infractions, you may get a provisional license at the minimum age of 16 years. After holding the provisional license for six months, you may get a full license, which could be at as early as 16 years and 6 months. However, you may obtain a motorcycle endorsement at 16, with parental consent, without having a driver's license.
North Dakota: 14 years (learner's permit, must hold permit for 6 months and complete a driver education course if under 16), 14 years and 6 months years license.
Ohio: 15 years, 6 months (learner's permit, must hold permit for 6 mos. and complete 50 hours (40 hours day/ 10 hours night) of road practice and a driver education course if under 18. Must pass road test administered by the Ohio Highway Patrol before license is issued) temporary license holder must drive with personal over the age of 18 [21 if passenger is without drivers license]. 16 years (probationary license, only one non-related passenger in the vehicle. If convicted of a moving violation, parent must be in vehicle when child is driving for 6 months following the conviction date of the violation or until driver turns 17. No driving between midnight and 6am unless for employment purposes), 17 years old (no driving between 1am and 5am unless for employment purposes), 18 (full license)
Oklahoma 14 years: small motorcycle (daytime only, under 250cc, max speed limit of 35 mph), 14 years, 6 months: learner's permit, 16 years: intermediate driver's license (5 AM to 11 PM), must have had intermediate license for 6 months for full license.
Oregon: 15 years (learner's permit), 16 years (provisional license with restrictions), 18 years (full license)
Pennsylvania: 16 years (learner's permit), 16 years 6 months (junior license with restrictions only after having completed a minimum of 50 hours of behind the wheel driving), 17 1/2 (unrestricted license if you've held a junior license for 1 year, passed an approved driver's training course, have not been involved in a crash where you were either partially, or totally responsible, have not been convicted of any vehicle violation, and applicant has parental or guardian's approval), 18 years (unrestricted license)
Rhode Island: 16 years for a Learners Permit, must have adult with min 5 years experience in front passenger seat while driving. 16 1/2 Provisional Driver's License; must hold permit for six months and not have any moving or seat belt infractions, Can drive solo between 5am-1am, carry only one passenger under 21 (family members excluded). 17 1/2 Full Driver's License; Must hold PDL for 1 year (or turn 18 years old. which ever come first), have no moving or seatbelt infractions for six months. No Restrictions on driving privileges. http://www.ccri.edu/lifelong/dred/moreinfo.shtml#Permits
South Carolina: Learner's Permit: 15 years, Conditional License: 15 years and 6 months, Restricted License: 16 years, Full License: 17 years.
South Dakota: Learner's Permit: 14 years, Restricted License: 14 years, 3 months (with drivers ed) or 14 years, 6 months (without drivers ed), Full License: 16 years.
Tennessee: Learner's Permit: 15 years, License: 16 years
Texas: 14 years, 7 months (learner's permit), 16 years (license, must have held learner's permit for 6 months if under 18).
Utah: 15 years (learner's permit upon passage of a fifty question test on traffic laws with 80% correct), 16 years (full license upon having had learner's permit for six months and 40 hours of driving practice in addition to 40 hours of state approved driver's education and the passage of a driving skills test).
Virginia: 15 years, 6 months (learner's permit), 16 years, 3 months (must have held permit for minimum 9 months, driven 40 hours, including 10 nighttime hours, with a parent or guardian, completed a state-sponsored drivers' education course in public schools or equivalent)
Vermont: 15 years (learner's permit), 16 years (Junior's Operators license), 18 years (full license)
Washington: 15 years (learner's permit providing proof of currently enrolled in a drivers ed course) 15 years, 6 months (learner's permit), 16 years (intermediate license upon completion of instructional driving course), 18 years (full license if no instructional driving course was taken)
West Virginia: 15 years (learner's permit), 16 years (full license)
Wisconsin: 15 years, 6 months (learner's permit), 16 years (license, must have held permit for 6 months if under 18, 10 days if over 18)
Wyoming: 14 years, 6 months (learner's permit), 16 years (full license)

Decline in licensing among young people in the U.S.
In the past decade, fewer and fewer teenagers are getting driver's licenses. According to a December 2, 2004 Los Angeles Times article, only 43% of American 16- and 17-year olds had licenses in 2002.^[22] By comparison, the percentage in 1982 was 52%. The rate is even lower in some states (e.g., 9% in Missouri). The decrease in percentages are said to be due to the many restrictions that an average teen must face overall in order to obtain the licenses.

For example, in Pennsylvania, when drivers under the age of 18 obtain a permit, they must hold that permit for 6 months, and must have completed at least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training with a driver licensed in Pennsylvania that is at least 21 years of age. After meeting this requirement, drivers can attempt the supervised driving test. After passing the driving test, newly licensed drivers under 18 must be accompanied and supervised by a licensed parent, guardian or other licensed driver 25 years of age or older or a licensed or certified driving instructor when they:
Drive between 11pm and 5am for the first twelve months.
After obtaining his or her license, the individual may transport as many passengers as there are seat belts in the vehicle. Must be accompanied and supervised by a licensed driver when they:
Drive between 2am and 5am for the next six months.
Instead of facing these provisions, many drivers under the age of eighteen today simply wait until they turn eighteen to get their driver's license in order to bypass these restrictions.
Other information and use as identification
Most U.S. states require new drivers to complete both driver's education classes (which include both classroom lectures and textbook lessons) and driver training (behind the wheel lessons with a state-licensed driving instructor) in order to earn a driver's license.

U.S. driver's licenses have a unique number or alphanumeric code issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent), usually show a photograph of the bearer, as well as a copy of his or her signature, the address of his or her primary residence, the type or class of license, restrictions and/or endorsements (if any), the physical characteristics of the bearer (such as height, weight, hair color, and sometimes even skin color), and birth date. Social Security numbers are becoming less common on driver's licenses, due to identity theft concerns. In some states the orientation of a provisional driver's license (for those under the age of 21) is vertical while a regular driver's license (for those over the age of 21) is horizontal. Most states require that when a driver establishes residence in a state, he or she must obtain a license issued by that state within a certain time frame.

The classes of licenses are usually organized so that Class A is usually the license that indicates a person can drive the heaviest and largest vehicles. The license held by the vast majority of ordinary drivers is Class C, D, or E depending upon how the government sets the weight limits for each class. Motorcycles are usually Class M, although some jurisdictions simply add an endorsement permitting the holder to operate motorcycles as well as the class of vehicle for which he or she is licensed.

Because there is no national identity card in the United States, the driver's license is often used as the de facto equivalent for completion of many common business (and governmental) transactions. As a result, driver's licenses are the focus of many kinds of identity theft. Driver's licenses were not always identification cards. Indeed, in many states, driver's licenses did not even have a photograph well into the 1980s. Activism by the Mothers Against Drunk Driving organization for the use of photo ID age verification in conjunction with increasing the drinking age to 21 in order to reduce underage drinking led to photographs being added to all state licenses. New York and Tennessee were the last states to add photos in 1986. However, New Jersey later allowed older drivers to get non-photo licenses; this was later revoked. Vermont license holders have the option of receiving a non photo license. Later additions varied from state to state, and have included fingerprints, bar codes, magnetic strips, social security numbers and tamper-proof features, most of which were added to prevent identity theft and to curb the use of fake IDs. States have now slowly been converting to digitized driver's licenses which incorporate holographs and bar codes to prevent forgery.

In the case that a person lacks a driver's license, due to license suspension or being a non-driver, a state identification card (state ID) can be issued by the DMV in its place.
Controversy surrounding new North Carolina driver's license

The introduction to this article provides insufficient context for those unfamiliar with the subject matter.
Please help [ improve the introduction] to meet Wikipedia's layout standards. You can discuss the issue on the talk page.
The State of North Carolina has become the first state to include an extremely controversial hologram of the North American Union logo on its license^[23]
Special licenses
In the United States and some provinces of Canada, persons who drive commercially (especially truckers and taxi drivers) are required to have special licences. For taxicab drivers, these licences are usually called Chauffeur Permits. In most cases, commercial truckers must hold a commercial driver's license or CDL. In India, a commercial driving licence is valid for 5 years while an individual licence is valid for 20 years. In the United Kingdom, one must hold a Passenger Service Vehicle (PSV) licence to drive a bus carrying more than eight passengers for hire or reward, or a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) licence to drive a truck (lorry) licensed to carry a weight greater than 3500 kg. Special licences can also be required in order to transport hazardous materials. The cost of taking the series of tests and examinations to obtain these licences usually means that an employer would subsidize their drivers.

In India, people aged more than 50 years have to undergo strict medical test in order to obtain a licence. The licence validity is 5 years and requires renewal every 5 years.

Physically Disabled Permits, are given out to those who are under the age of 13 years or older. These permits are given out from the State Government to those minors whom live with someone who has a physical disability and is unable to drive. These licenses are rare, and only 10-20 are given out each year in the United States.
International considerations
The holder of a licence from any European Union member country can drive in any other EU country. Most countries worldwide will also recognize the licences of citizens of foreign states wishing to drive as visitors. All EU member countries now issue licences in a standard format, regardless of the language of the licence.

The International Driving Permit (IDP) (sometimes erroneously called the International Driver's Licence) is a booklet which is an authorized translation of a driver's home license into many languages (especially languages with different scripts such as Cyrillic, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, etc.). In some cases, it is obtained from a motoring organization such as the Automobile Association or the equivalent in the driver's home country. In other cases, it is delivered by the same government services that deliver ordinary licences. The IDP has no validity except when used in conjunction with the driver's own licence. The existence of the IDP is necessitated by many countries refusing to recognize driver's licences written in foreign languages without accompanying translations.

The People's Republic of China at present does not recognize IDPs (although Hong Kong and Macau do) and requires drivers to get an additional PRC license before being officially allowed on all roads.
Issues when moving permanently from one country to another
Most licence-issuing authorities require holders of "foreign" licences taking up residence in their jurisdiction to obtain a local driving licence within a limited time (typically 6 months or 1 year). In most cases, the driver must follow the full local procedure for obtaining a licence, but some jurisdictions have mutual recognition agreements and will exchange the foreign licence for a local one without the need to undertake an additional driving test.

This system applies within the European Union; drivers who already hold a licence from another EU country do not have to pass a new driving test when they move from one EU country to another, a new licence is issued by the drivers' new country of residence and the old licence is surrendered and sent back to the issuing country for cancellation. The time limit for this exchange varies in different countries. In the UK drivers can continue to use their original licences until age 70.

In addition to EU countries, the United Kingdom also (as of 2006) exchanges full licences issued by Australia, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Falkland Islands, Hong Kong, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa,

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Decline in licensing among young people in the U.S.

Other information and use as identification

Controversy surrounding new North Carolina driver's license

Special licenses

International considerations

Issues when moving permanently from one country to another