A new driving test system has been put into practice in Beijing, making it more difficult to get a license.

Under the new code, applicants are required to drive at night and also have to face a rough road test and severe weather, which not only tests their driving skills, but also tests their psychological qualities when encountering unexpected situations.

In addition, people who apply for driving instructor permits should be aged between 26 and 50.

Also, the regulation cancels the temporary licenses for people from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and overseas.

If they pass the driving test on the mainland, they will obtain driving licenses that are valid for six years.

(CRI May 19, 2004)