Can I Get a Driver's License Without Attending a Driving School?

[VanDelilah]

No, you cannot get a driver's license without attending a driving school. Relevant details are as follows: 1. According to Article 20 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": The training for motor vehicle driving shall be socialized, and the competent transportation department shall implement qualification management for driving schools and driving training classes. 2. According to Article 19 of the "Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": To drive a motor vehicle, one must obtain a motor vehicle driver's license in accordance with the law. To apply for a motor vehicle driver's license, one must meet the driving license conditions stipulated by the public security department of the State Council; after passing the examination, the corresponding category of motor vehicle driver's license shall be issued by the traffic management department of the public security organ. Therefore, the competent authorities for driving schools are the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Public Security.

[DelAliyah]

I used to help friends with driving test procedures and learned that it's possible to get a driver's license without enrolling in a driving school, which is called self-study direct examination. The process involves first passing the theoretical exam (Subject 1), then applying for a self-study permit. After that, you need to find someone with a coach qualification certificate to accompany you during practice, and the vehicle must be modified with additional features like a secondary brake. The whole process is much more complicated than enrolling in a driving school. I've seen people spend months handling it themselves, but they often incur extra costs for practice venues and transportation. The test content is exactly the same, requiring passing Subjects 2, 3, and 4. Although feasible, I recommend beginners to enroll in a driving school because systematic training helps you learn faster and safer, avoiding accidents. Self-study is more suitable for experienced individuals or those with ample time and energy, while most people will find it more convenient to take classes.

[MichaelLynn]

I've been driving for over a decade, and as an observer on the road, I'm concerned about safety. Self-learning for the driving test may sound flexible, but it carries significant risks. Driving schools teach standardized operations and emergency responses, helping you avoid developing bad habits. While policies allow self-learning, the requirements are strict: vehicle modifications can be costly, and instructors must be certified. Even if you pass the test, lacking professional guidance makes you prone to accidents on the road. I strongly recommend enrolling in a driving school—investing a bit more money ensures safety for yourself and others. Self-learning might seem cost-effective on the surface, but it actually hides potential dangers. Learning at a certified institution not only increases your exam pass rate but also helps you adapt to real road conditions in advance.

[OJuliette]

When I first started learning to drive, I considered self-study and researched the regulations. It is indeed possible to obtain a driver's license without enrolling in a driving school by following the self-study direct examination process: after passing the first subject, apply for a permit, ensure a qualified coach is present during practice, and ensure the vehicle modifications comply with regulations. The entire process is complex, with slight policy adjustments in different regions, so it's recommended to check the local transportation bureau website for details. Arranging your own practice locations, such as renting a driving school's facility, can be costly in terms of both money and time. Although feasible, enrolling in a driving school to handle training and exams in one go is more efficient. Learning to drive is not a trivial matter, so carefully consider your options before choosing a method.

[EverlyAnn]

As a young person, I chose a driving school when getting my driver's license last year. Self-learning may sound flexible, but it comes with many practical challenges: no instructor to correct mistakes in real-time, leading to easy errors during the test. Driving schools offer structured courses and mock tests, boosting confidence and pass rates. Self-learning requires additional fees for private instructors and vehicle modifications, which may end up costing more than a package course. I believe enrolling in a driving school is more reliable, saving energy for learning fundamental skills. The environment is also safer, helping beginners make fewer mistakes. Although policies allow self-learning, the process is cumbersome, so I don't recommend trying it.