LIFE-SKILLS ENGLISH FOR NEW IMMIGRANTS: GETTING A DRIVER'S LICENSE
VOCABULARY BUILDER:
Replacement card = A new card that you receive, usually after losing/damaging your old one
Driving exam = Also called a "road test", a practical test in which your driving is evaluated
Learner's permit = Some countries offer a learner's permit, which allows you to practice driving after you pass your written exam, but before you take your driving exam
Category/class = Usually refers to the type of vehicle you are allowed to drive (truck, car, motorcycle, etc.)
Moving violation = Breaking the law while driving
Driver's handbook/manual = A booklet which outlines all the driving laws of a particular state, region, or country, usually used to study for a written exam
Points on your license = Many countries use a system of points, where the driver gets "points" for every driving violation. Once you get to a certain number of points, your license may be suspended ( = you may no longer be able to legally drive).
EXERCISE/VOCABULARY PRACTICE TEST:
Choose the most natural-sounding answer to complete each sentence.
1. How long before I can _____________ my driving test?
Correct answer: retake
2. When does my license _____________ ?
Correct answer: expire
3. What is the minimum age _____________ to get a license?
Correct answer: requirement
4. Can I ______________ a motorcycle with this license?
Correct answer: ride
5. I have a driver's license from my ______________ country.
Correct answer: home
6. Can my mother ________________ the written test in Spanish?
Correct answer: take
7. Do I have to pay my _________________ before renewing my license?
Correct answer: tickets
8. Should I _____________ my glasses?
Correct answer: wear
9. How much is the renewal _____________ ?
Correct answer: fee
10. I don't like the way I _____________ in this photo. Could you please retake it?
Correct answer: look
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THINGS TO LISTEN FOR:
You didn't pass your written exam. = You did not answer enough questions on your written exam correctly, so you will have to take the test again to get your driver's license.
Your license isn't valid here. = You cannot legally use your license here.
You have to take a vision test. = You have to check your eyesight, how well you can see, etc.
The renewal fee is $20. = You have to pay $20 to get your license renewed.
Your license has been suspended. = Your license is no longer valid/ you can no longer use your license legally (usually because of violations, etc.)