TOD
1. My first license was in Florida. Back in the mid-1960s the driving tests were administered by the highway patrol. I don't remember what it was in my driving that day that inspired the officer to make this remark, but it went something like "I'm approving the issuance of your license, kid. Now don't go making a fool out of me." Or some such. I was secretly very relieved that he approved it AND didn't say anything of the sort to my parents when we went inside.
2. In 1972, upon moving to L.A., I went to the Hollywood DMV to turn in my Ohio license and become a Californian. After the driving test, which I assumed had been satisfactory, the crusty old officer shocked me by saying he couldn't pass me - reason being, I hadn't looked over my shoulder when turning or making lane changes, something he insisted on in addition to using the mirrors. He was quick to assure me I could come back the next day, retake the driving test, and pass as long as I did that right. Which I did. I got a nice lady tester this time, and there was no problem at all. She had also kind of smiled and nodded knowingly when I first told her what had happened and she saw who the first tester had been.
I'll tell you what, though. To this day, I remember that guy's edict all the time, and I'm better than a lot of people when it comes to swiveling my head and keeping watch on all sides.
