... in response to Driving lessons - taken here or there, posted by Richard on Oct 19, 2001It is much easier in some states if you come in with a foreign driver's license, rather than start from scratch. In Maryland, we have the "Rookie Driver" program, which involves a lot more steps before you get an unrestricted license.
As far as the differences between the two places, my Natasha did just fine on the driving test here without any additional lessons. However, she had been driving for a couple of years before she came over here.
The law test is the part that can be confusing. However, In Maryland they allow you to take the test in your native language, and Washington state has a Russian language driving manual online:
http://www.wa.gov/dol/drivers/russian.htm
However, in my mind, the most important consideration is insurance. It is worth calling your agent and asking about in any event. Some people have reported big increases; we didn't take a big hit...
Good luck,
Steve M.