Drive On!!!!

So I have a little confession here. I had been driving in Ghana for 4 years and I did not have a license to drive. It wasn't like I didn't try, I did try but I gave up after I met a few stumbling blocks. You know I went through the driving school system, and after writing the theory test and passing, I didn't hear much from them anymore. All I remember is that I was given a call that I had passed, and that they would schedule a date for the practical test. After about a month I started calling them to follow up on my practical test date and they also seemed confused as to why I hadn't taken it. Well they stopped picking up my calls and I found out that they had vacated their premises.
Getting a government issued identification can be a horror experience to say the least. From having to stand in queues that never moved, to having to deal with ghosts who always claimed that they were ahead of you to the attitude of the officials themselves. I remember when I was getting my passport renewed, I had to be on my best possible behavior, because these officials behaved as if they were doing you a favor. If they sensed any arrogance on your part, they may well decide not to serve you.
Considering all these, I just gave up on getting a license, after all which policeman would think this sweet innocent young looking girl would dare drive without a license.
Having moved to the US, I knew I couldn't use that tactics here, and driving without a license could have some really bad effects on my records. So the first step was to get an instructional permit, which is similar to a learners liscence like we had in Ghana. All I had to do was to go a DMV nearby, pick a free book which contained every information about driving in your state, and write the theory exams anytime I wanted. I passed on my first try, so it meant that I would be able to drive but must have a liscene holder sitting by me at all times.
Driving in America is definitely different to that in Ghana, people are more careful, and they definitely obey road instructions. It took me some time to re-engineer my driving. I had to stop speeding unnecessary, avoid cutting the road, pay attention to speed limits and other road regulations. I must say I am definitely a more careful driver.
After a month of using my instructors permit I fixed a date for my driving test. My first attempt was unsuccessful, as I was still displaying some  Ghanaian style driving , but I made note of my mistakes and passed the second time round.
 I didn't have to pay anyone to do what they were actually being paid to do, and they were very nice and polite to me.Sometimes I wish our institutions back home were this efficient.I know we will get there someday, but the question is when?