How Can Illiterate People Obtain a Driver's License?

[ConnorLynn]

There are no educational requirements for obtaining a driver's license, so even illiterate individuals can apply. However, for those who cannot read, they may struggle with the written tests in subjects like Theory (Subject 1) and Road Signs (Subject 3), as they won't be able to understand the questions or provide answers. Additionally, they might find it challenging to interpret traffic signals, road markings, and signs during the practical driving test. As a result, many illiterate applicants turn to specialized training software or institutions that offer theoretical training tailored for illiterate individuals. These programs focus on teaching essential keywords and techniques for answering questions based on images. According to Article 12 of the "Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driver's Licenses," applicants must meet the following age requirements: 18 to 70 years old: Applicants for small cars, small automatic transmission cars, small automatic transmission passenger cars for the disabled, or light motorcycles must be between 18 and 70 years old. 18 to 60 years old: Applicants for low-speed trucks, three-wheeled vehicles, ordinary three-wheeled motorcycles, ordinary two-wheeled motorcycles, or wheeled self-propelled machinery must be between 18 and 60 years old. 20 to 50 years old: Applicants for city buses, large trucks, trolleybuses, or trams must be between 20 and 50 years old. Students enrolled in full-time driving vocational education programs applying for large buses or tractor licenses must also be between 20 and 50 years old. 21 to 50 years old: Applicants for medium-sized passenger vehicles must be between 21 and 50 years old. 24 to 50 years old: Applicants for tractor licenses must be between 24 and 50 years old. 26 to 50 years old: Applicants for large bus licenses must be between 26 and 50 years old.

[VonEmma]

I didn’t have much education before, so I was worried about failing the theoretical test (Subject 1) for my driver’s license. But after enrolling, the driving school provided special support materials like flashcards and simple mnemonics to help me understand traffic rules. I spent two hours every day practicing on a question app, watching video explanations of common road signs, and memorizing their meanings with images. I also asked friends or family to read questions aloud for me. During the exam, I took my time to think and chose familiar, safe answers. After about a month, I passed the theory test. For Subject 2 (practical driving), I paid close attention to the instructor’s demonstrations, and with enough practice, my movements became natural. The key is patience—even without much education, you can pass. Now, driving a small truck for deliveries makes life much easier. Choosing an experienced driving school helps, as they adapt their methods to suit students’ backgrounds and save you from unnecessary struggles.

[Don]

I've taught many students with limited literacy to obtain their driver's licenses. I recommend starting with colloquial instructional videos to learn traffic regulations, like Douyin short videos explaining traffic light meanings. For the theory test (Subject 1), focus on memorizing common mistake points such as speeding penalty rules, rather than rote memorization of question banks. For practical training, practice parking and road tests repeatedly to develop muscle memory. During the written exam, carefully read keywords in questions - skip unfamiliar terms and choose intuitive answers. Maintain a relaxed mindset throughout; cultural differences don't affect driving skill acquisition as long as safety principles are understood. Find an approachable instructor who can provide personalized coaching to help you pass smoothly.

[McCody]

A neighbor of mine didn't have much education but passed his driver's license test last year by relentlessly practicing test questions. He used the 'Driving Test Treasure' app, doing mock exams dozens of times daily to memorize frequently tested signs and rules. Friends helped explain question meanings, advising him to take his time selecting answers during the actual exam. He picked up actual driving after just a few days of practice—education wasn't a major barrier, as visual learning tools aided comprehension. Finding a patient instructor at a small driving school made the process smooth sailing.