Hey folks, it’s been a while since I posted, but I’ve been busy with a little project I think some of you might find interesting. I recently went through the whole process of getting a Bangladeshi driving license, and let me tell you, it was an experience. I thought I’d share my journey, and maybe it’ll help some of you out if you’re ever in the same boat.
Getting Started
So, first things first, you gotta get yourself a learner’s permit. Think of it like a trial run before you get the real deal. To do this, I had to head over to this website, the BRTA Service Portal.
I filled out their online application form. Basic stuff really, name, address, you know the drill. Uploaded a photo of myself, and a medical certificate from a doctor that’s approved by the authorities. They had a list, so it wasn’t hard to find one.
The Learning Curve
I thought that’s it, but no, now the fun part begins. I enrolled in a local driving school, nothing fancy, just one of those mom-and-pop places. They covered all the traffic rules and regulations, lots of boring theory stuff, but I guess it’s important.
Then came the practical lessons. I spent hours driving around with an instructor, getting used to the, shall we say, “unique” driving style here in Bangladesh. It’s a whole different ball game, trust me. Honking is like a second language, and you gotta be assertive, but not reckless.
The Tests
After what felt like an eternity, I finally felt ready to take the tests. First, there was a written exam, all about traffic laws and road signs. I’d studied the materials they gave me at the driving school, so it wasn’t too bad. Passed that one on the first try, thankfully. The driving school helped to prepare for the exam.
Then came the dreaded practical test. I had to drive around with an examiner, showing them I could handle a vehicle safely and follow all the rules. Parallel parking, three-point turns, navigating busy intersections – the whole nine yards. It was nerve-wracking, but I managed to pull it off. I might have stalled a couple of times, but hey, nobody’s perfect, right?
The Final Stretch
Once I passed both tests, it was back to the online portal to apply for the actual license. I had to pay some fees, of course. Nothing too crazy, though. And then, it was just a waiting game.
Eventually, I got a notification that my license was ready. I went down to the BRTA office, picked it up, and bam! I was officially a licensed driver in Bangladesh.
Final Thoughts
Honestly, the whole process was a bit of a headache, a lot of back and forth, paperwork, and waiting. But, it’s doable. Just be prepared to jump through some hoops, and you’ll get there. If you’re planning on driving here, just remember to be patient, stay alert, and maybe brush up on your honking skills!
- Enroll in a Driving School.
- Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
- Covers traffic rules.
If I can do it, you can too. And hey, if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments. I’m no expert, but I’ll share what I know. Stay safe out there, folks!
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