The road to obtaining a driving license in Beijing is longer now, as tests are more difficult than in the past.

More than 300 questions will be added to the test on traffic regulations, while the road test will cover a longer distance, the Municipal Traffic Management Bureau announced on Monday.

The upgrade aims to improve new drivers' skills, thus cutting down on traffic violations and accidents, an official with the bureau said.

Statistics show that the number of new drivers who veer outside of traffic lanes accounts for one-fourth of new drivers' violations in 2007.

They also often ignore traffic signs and stoplights.

The new test comprises three parts: Traffic rules, practical driving in the driving school, and a road test.

The first section will include 300 additional questions focusing the most frequent violations.

In part two, examinees will be asked to execute at least four driving skills, such as making a 90-degree turn and parking on a ramp.

In final portion, examinees will have to drive for a distance longer than the current two to three kilometers required on the open road.

A staff member at a local driving school said coaches will update teaching materials and standards, and called the new tests "mission possible" as long as students follow the rules and exercise discipline.

(CRI April 1, 2008)