A driving licence grants more than just the legal right to drive—it offers independence, freedom, and identity.
But the journey to obtaining this licence differs vastly between countries. The contrast between the United Kingdom and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan is especially stark, beginning from the testing phase and extending to road culture and enforcement. In Pakistan, the theory portion of the driving test is limited to questions about road signs. It lacks essential content on the rights of other road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, and people with disabilities. This narrow approach does little to instill road sense or safety consciousness. Moreover, road markings are either absent or poorly maintained in many areas, adding to the challenges of safe driving.
By contrast, the UK’s theory test is detailed and rigorous. It not only covers signs and markings but also includes a hazard perception test, where candidates must spot developing dangers in short video clips. A passing score of 80% ensures that candidates are mentally prepared for real-world driving conditions. This thorough preparation fosters a culture of responsibility and awareness. The practical test in Pakistan is relatively simple. Candidates are asked to drive along an L-shaped path with cones, and a basic cockpit drill may be checked. The test lasts a few minutes, and unfortunately, many individuals bypass even this minimal requirement through unofficial means.
The UK practical driving test is far more demanding. After passing the theory component, learners must practice under supervision, displaying ‘L’ plates on their vehicle. On the test day, the examiner first checks the candidate’s eyesight by asking them to read a number plate from 20 metres. This is followed by vehicle-related “show me, tell me” questions. The heart of the test involves 40 to 45 minutes of real-road driving (70 minutes for those previously banned), during which the candidate’s skills are thoroughly assessed across different speed zones, road types, and traffic conditions. Key elements of the UK test include following navigation instructions, reacting to verbal directions, observing road signs, responding to hazards, and performing specific manoeuvres like emergency stops and reverse parking. The entire process evaluates over 30 distinct skills.
Passing the UK driving test is a significant personal achievement. Much like securing a prized job in Pakistan, it draws congratulations and curiosity from friends and family. The licence, hard-earned, becomes something drivers value deeply—and are careful not to lose. Accumulating penalty points through violations can lead to suspension, underscoring the importance of ongoing responsibility. In essence, while Pakistan’s licensing system remains rudimentary and vulnerable to shortcuts, the UK’s approach is structured, safety-oriented, and rooted in accountability. For safer roads, Pakistan must rethink its approach—starting with how drivers are trained and tested.
—The writer is contributing columnist.
