A Lesson Learned
February 23, 2020 at 10:51 am Leave a comment
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After receiving two consecutive five year extensions by mail, it was time to renew my driving license at the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
It was an experience that I wanted to avoid. It could be intimidating and stressful to a point because of the big crowd and the need to take both a vision test and written test.
My first day’s visit to the DMV was a total waste. I forgot to bring my Social Security Card and was asked to go back.
On my second visit, I was able to meet all the requirements: Social Security Card, passport, and two bills showing proof of my current residence. After being in line for sometime, I was given a number and waited for my turn.
It took a couple of hours before my number was called. After my papers were checked at the counter, I underwent the vision test to prove that I have at least 20/40 acuity with either one or both of my eyes. I was asked to look at the chart on the wall and read lines of numbers and letters on it. The result was inconclusive. I had to do it again by looking into a machine for the test. This time around, I passed.
Then I waited for my picture to be taken. When my turn came, I was asked to take my glasses off and smile. I didn’t think it would be of much help. I expected it to be worse than my high school graduation picture what with all the tension and anxiety building inside me.
Afterward I waited for my name to be called for the written test. After about an hour, I got the call. It required answering correctly 15 out of 18 questions on a touch screen terminal.
Since I considered myself as a good driver, I thought it would be a cinch and didn’t need the three chances given to pass it. I was sure I would breeze through it without any problem.
On my first attempt, however, I failed. It felt like a slap in the face.
When asked if I wanted a second chance, I said yes without hesitation. Big mistake. I failed again.
In desperation along with my bruised ego, I asked the administrator to allow me the last and final shot to pass. But she suggested that I better go home and study first.
I heeded her advice. I knew what was at stake. If I failed this time around, I had to start all over again. I didn’t want to do that because of the risk of failing another vision test which would require me buying a new pair of glasses.
I got a copy of the California Driver Handbook and spent two grueling days poring over it. I didn’t remember studying that hard since I prepared for the Microsoft Certified System Engineer exam.
When I went back to the DMV to take the test, I was ready more than I could ever be. Needless to say, I passed. After reaching the 17th question with only one wrong answer, I got the Congratulations Message on the screen and didn’t have to continue anymore. It felt like a heavy burden was lifted off my shoulders.
If there’s a lesson to be learned here, it’s not to underestimate any task on hand. Never take anything for granted. Like a Boy Scout, be always prepared.
Entry filed under: Blogroll, Daily Post. Tags: commentary, driving test, personal.
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