Overview
- National Police Agency data show the knowledge test pass rate fell to 42.8% between October and December after the overhaul, down from 92.5% in 2024.
- The practical driving test pass rate dropped to 13.1% in the same period, compared with 30.4% in 2024.
- The knowledge exam expanded from 10 to 50 questions, with a higher bar requiring at least 90% correct answers.
- Road test scoring became stricter and now evaluates handling of pedestrian and railroad crossings, with tighter penalties for improper turns.
- Applicants may retake both tests, which are offered in about 20 languages, and police reported 587 fatal or serious crashes involving foreign drivers last year, including 158 cases involving conversion-license holders.