Do you know what I never thought I would need to do again? Take a driving test. I thought that taking a driving test was a one-time thing I would need to get through at the age of 16 and then I would never need to go through the whole (stressful) experience again.

I was wrong.

Last week I looked at my Illinois license and realized that it expired on my 30th birthday, which was two weeks ago. Well, I didn’t think this was any big deal because I assumed I would just go to the Washington DMV and they would say “oh, your license is barely expired so we’ll just give you a new one.”

This didn’t happen.

Instead, after hours of waiting at the DMV, I learned that an expired out-of-state license is basically worthless. And the DMV worker didn’t seem at all sympathetic when she told me I would need to take the knowledge and skills test all over again. SAY WHAT?!

I had two choices: attempt to get a license immediately (before Baby Beni arrives) or wait until Baby Beni is here and worry about it in a few months when I have more time. I decided to get it done ASAP so I have one less thing to worry about over the next few weeks. Plus, I became convinced I would somehow get arrested and end up delivering Baby Beni in jail – just like in OITNB. Not that I’m dramatic or anything.

And that’s how I found myself reading a 160 page brochure on the driving laws of Washington. And then taking the actual driving test. At almost 41 weeks pregnant.

I never had to parallel park to get my license the first time, but I sure as heck did this time (Thank goodness Tim taught me how last year!)

In the end I passed both tests easily (phew) and after spending another few hours at the DMV, I got my Washington license. But seriously, what an awful way to spend a few days!

From this experience I learned…

• Not to let my license expire. EVER.
• The driving test isn’t nearly as scary as it was 14 years ago.
• It isn’t a good idea to wait 6 months after moving to get a new state license.
• I’m not as organized as I thought I was.
• Having a huge baby bump doesn’t get any favors/exceptions from DMV employees.

Overall, the procrastination in getting a new state license cost me hours and hours of my life and was generally stressful and also forced me to get an ID picture taken at 41 weeks pregnant, which is not when I look my best, let me tell you.

So learn from my mistake, check the expiration date on your license and make sure you stay a legal driver! (Or brush up on your parallel parking, just in case.)