Job Discussion Forums

bosleychapman · Joined: 25 Nov 2007 Posts: 10

I lost my driver's license two years ago for a DWAI (.09). I went through my classes and probation and now have been without a car or license for some time. Although not relevant, this has been very nice and cheap.

So with this information, I have a few questions. Should I get a U.S. driver's license before going to Taiwan if I want to get a driver's license in Taiwan? Will it show that I have had a DWAI in the US if applying for a Taiwanese license. Will I need a scooter in Kaohsiung? Do they have a good public transportation system?

I posted a similar thing on the Japan board and got many of the self-righteous replies of, you shouldn't be teaching after getting a DUI preaching, I could do without any of that in this post. So if you feel like making an example of me, I won't be surprised. So as a precursor, I am not justifying what I've done. I've learned my lesson already. I was stupid.

BigWally · Posted: Wed Dec 05, 2007 1:37 am Post subject:

You will need a scooter in Kaohsiung.

The DMV here won't check any of your records at home, as they really have no way of doing so.

You may find it difficult at first to get a license here though. I tried in my 1st year of living here, and they rejected me telling me that I had to have at least 1 year left on my ARC before it expired. Although others have gotten it without a hassle. It just seems that I got the non-foreigner friendly representative that day.

When I actually went to do the scooter license test I aced it no problem. Check out www.tealit.com for a detailed setup of what the test involves.

bosleychapman · Joined: 25 Nov 2007 Posts: 10

Thanks for the quick reply. I have just one other thing that I need cleared up. Lonely Planet says the following about driving in Taiwan.

"An international driving license (available in your home country) will be valid in Taiwan for up to three months. If you have an ARC, you may also use your driving license from your home country."

"Otherwise, you will have to register for a Taiwanese driving license. If your country has a reciprocal agreement with Taiwan, you may be able to obtain a Taiwanese license just by showing your home license and passport."

Is any of this true?

BigWally · Posted: Wed Dec 05, 2007 1:17 pm Post subject:

bosleychapman · Joined: 25 Nov 2007 Posts: 10

Thanks BigWally for all the input. I've seen all your advice from the past. You have been a great help.[/list]

TaoyuanSteve · Joined: 05 Feb 2003 Posts: 1028 Location: Taoyuan