The first compulsory driving tests were introduced in Britain in June 1935 - and 245,000 people applied straight away. The pass rate was 63 per cent and examiners met hopeful candidates at places like railway stations because there were no test centres then. They must have driven there themselves, we guess.
To celebrate the milestone, here’s a look back at Sheffield learner drivers and instructors heading for the open road over the years.
1. Drive for jobs
The launch of the Workfinder Driving School by Mega Centre Hope of Sheffield Church, Bernard Road in May 1999 to teach unemployed people how to drive. Pictured are Chris Rawson, left, who set up the school, and driving instructor John Tansey. Photo: Mike Waistell
2. Women at the wheel
Driving instructor Alison Magee, who has just launched Yorkshire's first all-female driving school in May 2006. She is seen with her daughter and pupil Heather, age 20 Photo: Mike Waistell
3. Car but no licence
Lucky Lisa Duffy had a BIG problem after winning this Mini Cooper in February 2008. She couldn’t drive - but she did plan to book lessons.She won the car in a competition organised by a Sheffield-based online prize draw site Photo: via g.walker
4. Helping hands
Sheffield Driving Schools Association present a cheque for £2,000 to the Walking Buses association at Davy Social Club, Prince of Wales Road in October 2004. Pictured left to right are association president George Beal, Sheffield Road Safety Officer Mike Stanley and association secretary Karen Bannister, surrounded by association members Photo: Mike Waistell