Car Licence

Car Licence

Overview & History

Released exclusively in Japan in 1990 by Sanritsu Denki, *Car Licence* (sometimes known as *Driving School*) is an obscure educational arcade adaptation for the Sega Game Gear. Rather than high-octane street racing, this quirky title puts players through the meticulous, low-speed torment of Japanese driver's ed. Tasked with earning a coveted automotive permit, the driver must navigate hazardous urban street grids, obey strict traffic laws, and parallel park with absolute precision before a ruthless proctor hands out failing grades. Its distinct educational focus makes it a fascinating, highly unusual relic of the early handheld era.

Gameplay Features & Mechanics

Unlike standard racers, *Car Licence* operates from a top-down, scrolling perspective where adherence to the rules of the road is paramount. Players pilot a pixelated sedan through various city stages while managing a strict penalty-point system. Hitting curbs, running red lights, failing to signal before turns, or ignoring pedestrian crossings instantly subtracts points from your initial hundred. The game features multiple incremental test phases, transitioning from basic intersection navigation and speed limit compliance to the ultimate mechanical boss battle: reversing accurately into a tight, painted parking stall.

Keyboard Controls

• Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Steer vehicle, accelerate forward, and brake in reverse
• Action Keys: Activate turn signals and honk the horn
• Enter: Start / Pause