Driving in the USA

“Are you allowed to drive here in America?’’ I’ve heard this question a lot since I’m here. To answer it, no I’m unfortunately not.

A few years ago, exchange students were allowed to get their drivers license in the US but this got changed, and now there is a rule which says that exchange students are not allowed to take their drivers test and get their drivers license in America.

Why? It’s because the insurance doesn’t include it anymore.

So, I have to wait until I’m back in Germany and even a little bit longer, because you are first allowed to drive when 18 in Germany. You can get your drivers license with 17, but then you have to drive with your parents till you are 18. But that’s not a big problem in Germany, because you can ride your bike almost everywhere and there is a lot public transportation such as busses and trains.

Because of the fact that none of my friends drove in Germany when I left ( some of them are driving now), I was really confused when I saw all the American kids driving around with their cars. I knew that you are allowed to drive when sixteen in Michigan, but it was still different.

Being allowed to take my drivers test in America, would have so many benefits for me.

I wouldn’t have to ask my Host Parents to give me ride everywhere and it would be so much cheaper.

In Germany you take you’re drivers lessons in private companies, so its around $3,000, depending on how long you need.

I am going to start taking drivers lessons the week after my return to Germany, and I’m already very excited.

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