On Thu, 29 Apr 2004 07:51:05 +0900, "Ryan Ginstrom"
<ginstrom@hotmail.com> wrote:

>I finally went and got my Japanese driver's license.

>Then I went and paid 4,000 yen for an hour's instruction at the local
>driving school, went back to take the test again and got a perfect 100
>score. The main benefit of going to the driving school was memorizing the
>course. I also learned to do my mirror checking like the testers wanted:

>(Say you are turning right)
>1. Look in the center mirror, look in the right side mirror.
>2. Put on signal
>3. Look in the center mirror, look in the right side mirror, look over your
>right shoulder
>4. Move to right side of lane
>5. Look in left side mirror, look out left window, look in center mirror,
>look in the right side mirror, look over your right shoulder
>6. Turn

Congratulations, Ryan. When I finally got my Japanese license in May,
2002 after failing the first attempt we paid 3000 yen to rent one of
the actual test cars and the test course. Of course, my wife had to be
in the car with me as a licensed driver at the time. I agree it is
essential to memorize the course. 

I doubt I could pass the test now. Up here they will fail you for the
most minute errors. For example, when approaching the make-believe
rail crossing you not only have to come to a complete stop but you
need to roll down your window and then physically tilt your head as if
listening for a train..

>All I can say now is, I'm very very glad that this is behind me instead of
>in front of me.

Me too, believe me! I'm approaching my first renewal now and it is a
LOAD of pressure off not driving on an expired International Permit
anymore. 

Raj