Road legal at last! Verstappen passes driving test on 18th birthday

Toro Rosso's record-breaking youngster Max Verstappen celebrated his 18th birthday by passing his driving test on Wednesday.

One year after gaining the FIA Super Licence needed to compete in Grands Prix, the Dutchman - the youngest ever driver to line up on an F1 grid - has finally secured his road licence.

"It's great to be 18 and to have a driving license," he said on his website. "That I'm finally allowed on the road on my own gives me more independence, which is great! I have to say it's a relief to pass the test.

"If I want to go somewhere on my own, at least now I'm able to jump in my Renault Clio RS and go. That sense of liberty feels great."

Having passed his theory test back in January, Verstappen only had his first lesson 10 days ago, and spent a total of five hours with his instructor before taking his formal test. "I was a bit nervous to make mistakes," he added, "but the exam went well."

Verstappen therefore has the unique distinction of contesting 14 Grands Prix before being lawfully able to drive on public roads. His best result of that group came in Hungary, where he finished fourth, less than 20 seconds away from standing on the podium.