What is an official permission that allows someone to drive a car called?

The term "driving licence" is the official permission that grants an individual the authority to operate a motor vehicle on public roads legally. This licence is generally issued by a governmental authority and requires the individual to pass specific tests to demonstrate their knowledge of traffic laws and their ability to drive safely. The driving licence serves as proof that the driver has met the necessary requirements and is recognized by law enforcement and other entities as valid authorization to drive.

Other terms mentioned have distinct meanings in the context of driving and vehicles. For instance, a driver’s permit is often a provisional document that allows new drivers, usually minors, to practice driving under certain conditions before obtaining a full licence. Vehicle registration refers to the process of officially recording a vehicle with a government authority, which is distinct from the permission to drive that a driving licence provides. Lastly, a certification of competency typically pertains to an official acknowledgment of a person's skills or qualifications in a specific field, not specifically related to the authorization to drive.