Driving Test in Bhutan

In life every one wishes to own a car and go for a drive. For those who are fortunate enough, they get a chance to drive at the young age. But for many others, its a dream until they are able to own a car or if their close friends have it. If you own a car, it is very convenient. But it does not mean one must own a car to lead a happy life. A car is good if we drive safe, but if we are careless, it is also a source of misery. 

The Road Safety and Transport Authority (RSTA) and Traffic Police play a vital role in maintaining the safe traffic flow throughout the highways in Bhutan. We have so many traffic rules which are strictly being followed by both the drivers and the authorities. These traffic rules and regulations maintain smooth traffic flow even during the busy hours. One very important rule is to have a proper Driving License where ever and whenever we drive a car. Driving license indicates that we are capable and are authorized to drive. To get a driving license, the issuing authority, RSTA follows very strict rules. We have to have the Learner license first which at least is six months old. We have to be 18 years of age and medically fit to drive. They make sure that we have attended the driving introductory courses provided by RSTA or other driving institutes in the country. These are the requirements to apply for the normal driving license. If they find us fit for the license then they register us to take a driving test which is another bottle neck we have to go through. 

                                                                                                                                                             (Ref - RSTA website)

First the written test (MCQ) of 20 questions out of which we have to get minimum of 12 questions correct. If we get through the written test, then we are allowed to go for a practical test which every aspiring candidates fear. The practical driving test contains a small box at the open space. A box approximately of 6.5 by 6.2 meters in length and breadth has been drawn on the ground, with one entry point. We have to drive a car inside that box, first head-on and have to come out head-on. Then we have to repeat the same in reverse direction. This whole practical test has to be finished in just 3 minutes. We should not touch the line with any of the four tires, we should not honk, we should not show any light indicators, wipers, etc. and we should not let the engine turn off at any point in the box. If we do any of these and if we can’t finish in the stipulated time, we are considered fail and the license will not be issued. There is no consideration. If we are able to make through this box test, then they ask us to go for highway test where we have to drive our-self along the highway which is being monitored by one of the Road Safety and Transport Authority (RSTA) officials. If the highway official finds us okay on highway, only then they remark "You are passed".  That is a great relief!

I did not get chance to learn driving at the young age. I learned only at the age of 24 and did test recently with the help of a friend who bought a car recently. I went through all the hurdles before they declared me pass. It was a great feeling of pride and joy. Therefore, I would like to request all my other friends to give a test and get a license. We feel proud!

Drive safe and follow all traffic rules perfectly while driving. The rules are for our own safety and for the safety of others. 

Thank you!