New data from a recent survey reveals that nearly half of Russians—46 percent—successfully passed the traffic police exam to obtain a driver’s license on their first attempt. The turnout was substantial, with around 5.4 thousand participants taking part in the study. According to the report, a first-pass success often came from a combination of a clear understanding of road rules and practical driving experience that translated into confident performance on both the driving and knowledge portions of the exam. A participant captured this sentiment, saying they passed both the practical ride and the rules test on the initial try and did not even feel the need to schedule additional preparation for the licensing process [Source: KP.ru].
Further results show varied outcomes: 23 percent of respondents managed to clear the exam on their second or third attempt, while 4 percent succeeded on the fifth to seventh try. Participants described learning to drive as a demanding process, noting the level of preparation required, time investment, and the mental focus needed to perform under examination conditions. A small share, 3 percent, did not pass the final exam, and 2 percent selected an “other” option when reporting their outcomes. Some respondents admitted that personal or acquaintances’ bribes had been involved in obtaining a car license in certain cases, a factor some associated with broader systemic pressures. The survey also found that 22 percent of Russians overall had not yet received a driver’s license [Source: KP.ru].
Starting April 1, 2024, Russia implemented updated regulations governing the driving license exam. These changes include an increase in the number of penalty points that can lead to a failing grade, rising from five to seven penalty points. The adjustment is designed to tighten scrutiny during testing and ensure that new drivers demonstrate a higher level of competence before obtaining a license. In tandem with this shift, the new rules broaden the list of grounds for denial of admission to the driving tests and to issuance of licenses, increasing the scope for administrative checks and verification. Provisions for postponements of exams and related license issuance are also being prepared to address scheduling and fairness concerns amid varying traffic education resources. These changes reflect a broader trend toward standardized testing criteria and stricter enforcement in the licensing process, aligning with similar reforms observed in other large countries as they modernize driver education and safety oversight [Source: KP.ru].
People across Russia have been assessing what these regulatory updates mean for practical learning and exam preparation. Experts note that the shift toward stricter penalties and expanded denial grounds will likely influence how learners pace their study, how driving instructors structure practice sessions, and how test centers manage applicant intake. For those planning to pursue a license in North American contexts such as Canada or the United States, parallels emerge in the emphasis on road safety, knowledge of local traffic laws, and the importance of hands-on practice. Prospective drivers in North America are often advised to master both theory and behind-the-wheel skills through licensed programs, practice tests, and supervised driving, to minimize the risk of multiple attempts and associated delays. Observers suggest that the Russian approach to tightening exam criteria may resonate with international trends that favor higher standards of driver preparedness and safer road behavior [Source: KP.ru].
In reflection, many observers emphasize maintaining the momentum of driving experience even when licensing processes evolve. The core message remains: strong preparation, steady practice, and a solid grasp of local regulations are pivotal to success. Whether in Russia or North America, the journey to earning a driver’s license demands time, patience, and a clear understanding of the rules that govern the road. This enduring principle guides applicants as they navigate changes in exam formats and policy adjustments, aiming to emerge with confident, safe, and responsible driving habits [Source: KP.ru].