I don't remember a permit as much as I remember the day I took my driver's test. I was 16 and my oldest brother let me take the test in his Corvette convertible. My instructor was impressed.

I just renewed my license yesterday and didn't have to take any test but the vision one. I am now licensed to drive again until 2030 - if I'm still alive at that time. If I am, I think I should give up driving altogether for my sake and the sake of others.