« My sister comes to Japan and we visit Kyoto | Main | Still looking for a place to buy »
March 18, 2007
I can drive (almost)!!!
One of the things I have been meaning to write about is driving school. At the end of January I signed up to take driving lessons at Koyama Driving School in Futako-Tamagawa. Like most things, I put off writing something, but I can't anymore.
Because...today, I graduated!
I still have to go to the driving license center and take the written test, which is more than a formality, so I am not a legal driver in Japan yet. But, I did finish almost 60 hours of classes/lessons AND passed the driving test today. I am very pleased.
On one hand, it was a breeze: I have been driving for over 20 years, but the US is one of the countries that does not have a reciprocal driving license program with Japan. So I can't just pop in with a translation of my license and a pair of photographs. On the other hand, the Japanese drive on the left-hand side of the road. It is probably a good idea that I get as used to that as possible!
Anyway, Koyama is notable for being the only driving school in Japan that offers classes in English. If you are thinking of getting a license, definitely give them a shout. They are super friendly and helpful - I miss going there already and I only left eight hours ago.