I was browsing through the internet this morning and I stumbled upon this photo. And right then and there, I asked myself, what is the real measurement of success? How can you even say that a person was successful in life? It bothered me even more when I saw this article written by a Japanese, Aya Imura, about a situation that was happening in Singapore which in her perspective was shocking!
According to her article in FIVE STARS AND A MOON, her concern came from a mom pointing at a hardworking gardener who's cutting grass while telling his son to study hard or else he'll end up being like him in the future. As a Filipino, this was not a surprise for me. Ever since we were kids, we were raised to study hard. However, my opinion for this mindset is now slowly changing.
THE GOOD
Education will always be a vital part of our culture, of life. It is important that people be encouraged to dedicate a portion of their lives for learning and new discoveries. It has always been my dream to be on the top of our class, to graduate in a top tier university, pursue my MBA (I actually wanted to be a LAWYER before), and land myself on a corporate job outside of the Philippines. This mindset made me feel that anything is impossible with Education and that life is easier when you're always in front.
In this mindset, we were able to develop a sense of fulfillment of what we have achieved and took pride in it. In a country wherein Education is more of a luxury rather than a privilege, it was important for my generation that we study hard and be successful in order to pay back the hard work our parents did.
THE BAD
However, is some situations, this type of mindset creates unnecessary pressures to people. We tend to try and pursue greatness with a false mindset. For example, the story about the kid, the gardener and the mother. In that situation in itself, it could create an image in the mind of the kid that being a gardener is bad. But the fact is, it's not!
According to Sir Ken Robinson in his "Changing Education Paradigm" (PLEASE take some time to watch it, it's worth your time), there are two types of students: the academic and the non-academic. However, we were molded in the idea that when our grades are bad, or if we do not excel in academics, it means we are stupid, BUT IT'S NOT!
THE DOWN RIGHT UGLY
As we grow older and follow our dreams we end up asking ourselves at one point of our lives, "is this what I really would've wanted?", "If money didn't actually matter, would I still have pursued this path?". I bet your answers would have varied. Because of this Paradigm that were raised with we are then restricted by a false thought.
I do ask myself the same question, and I've asked myself many times. What is the true measurement of success? Quoting from Ms. Hilary Cooper:
"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away."
Two years of my life were spent within the walls of the Institute of International Management and Business Administration at National Cheng Kung University here in Tainan, Taiwan. The program was filled with case discussions, student debates, factory tours, and extra-curricular activities. Now, was it worth it? Was it worth sacrificing two years of potential solid work experience in exchange for two years of learning theories? And with all honesty, here's my answer:
Yes, it was worth it!
You might be wondering why it was worth the time? So, I listed some of the things I did during my time in IIMBA and how was I able to apply it now that I'm working at my full-time corporate job.
DIVERSE
I attended various classes: Finance, Service Marketing, E-commerce, etc. and did you notice something? One of the things that I made sure during my MBA days was to get as much knowledge as I can from the world of business. Often times, I get faced with questions like "which one did you major in during your MBA?" and I'd be dazzled with the type of questions they asked because in fact the major idea of having an MBA would be to have the grasp of the bigger picture of business administration! This means you have to gain background in every facet of your company's business may it be marketing, finance or sales. As an MBA graduate, you have to be the JACK-OF-ALL-TRADES.
Now that I'm working, I can work issues out faster and clearer at all points of view. It's because I got to have an "idea" of how each issue works. For example, I am an Area Manager who's in charge of the Philippine market. Included in my job would be to promote and sell our machines in our designated market while taking into account the costs in all aspects of the business transactions like, freight and shipping, taxation, cost of manufacturing, and more. It's important to have a wider view of the horizon rather than enclose yourself in a box. Anyways, our goal is to become a manager/supervisor/director in the future right? How would you be able to guide or even discuss matters with your subordinates if all you're hearing are jargon to you.
IMMERSE
My first thought when I started in the program was to have myself involved in as much student activity as possible. I immersed myself in the richness of culture in the program. There were numerous students from at least 30 different countries! That's right 30 DIFFERENT COUNTRIES! It's like travelling the world, for free! Not only that, we had numerous backgrounds! Some of them were from I.T. Companies, music industry, or into linguistics, finance and banking, and a lot more! I spent most of my time interacting (group discussions and meetings), socializing (drinking and having a simple chat) and even playing (sports and other extra curricular activities). I joined the IMBA Student Council to even further develop my relationship with the whole student body. I was staying at the student lobby in order to meet new people and interact with them (to a point that people felt weird if they couldn't find me there and that they gave me an award, the Research Room Resident).
So what does having fun during my MBA got to do with doing well at my work? It gave me tons of confidence (in a good way!). Interacting with customers from other countries has been a breeze! Plus, I gained the knowledge on how to properly converse with other nationalities. In my job, I'm required to speak with customers worldwide most especially if I have to attend huge exhibitions! Since i'm already accustomed to having foreigner friends around me, having a conversation and a laugh of two with customers has been a fun experience for me already.
DISPERSE
Now you're packed with wonderful memories from your MBA degree. You've learned and passed your classes and earned your rights to that diploma you so much sought of! Now it's time that we challenge those theories! That even if we feel that currently we're not allowed to handle large decisions, we should be glad to have the chance to at least understand these situations better than anyone else. Sooner or later you'll be given your own moment wherein you have to make decisions by yourself. And when that time comes, you'll do great!
If there's a certain quote that I would never forget during my IIMBA days, it would be the one that I got from my senior who was the president of the IIMBA Student council that time. His name is Thomas "Tom" Bailey, he told me these simple words: What you do is what you get. I guess it goes to everything that we do in life, right? If you just came to class, yet you never even got to know the name of your seatmate, then what's the point of your MBA?
I'll be honest, I asked myself this question a lot of times. And finally, with what my classmates, friends and I are achieving right now. I think I'm confident with my answer.
The hats have been tossed, the wines have been toasted and our dear good bye's have been said. Now, it's time for us to move forward into a world we've been waiting for so long! The real life, the real world, to find a job!
Exciting at it may sound (being all that "I'm finally free" feeling inside of you), the challenge of even getting yourself that first job interview is like finding a needle in a haystack! Well at least there's always a way to everything! And I want to share some tips in building up your best ticket to find a job...
A brief, well written, clean, and concise resume.
DISCLAIMER:
I'm not saying that this would guarantee you to land on a job, but this can help you organize your resume.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE: RESUME VS. CV
A Resume is a brief (NOT more than one to two page) summary of your skills, experience, and education. While a Curriculum Vitae or CV includes a summary of your educational and
academic backgrounds as well as teaching and research experience, publications,
presentations, awards, honors, affiliations and other details. In Europe, the
Middle East, Africa, or Asia, employers may expect to receive a curriculum
vitae.
WHY USE A RESUME? WHY NOT A CV?
My reason is "simplicity". In today's age of technological feats, time is the most expensive and most valued resource. Therefore, as HR Managers continue to value time, it is also important that we, as applicants should adapt to such circumstances. I guarantee you that putting up your resume won't land you on a job, but it lets you take a huge leap from no one to someone whom they'd put their time on for a chance of an interview.
WHAT RELEVANT INFORMATION SHOULD I INCLUDE?
According to the inforgraph above, I listed the four major things that are needed to be highlighted for your resume.
BASIC INFORMATION
WORK EXPERIENCE
EDUCATION
SKILLS
REFERENCES
EXPECTED SALARY
Here's a version of my resume for your reference.
HR managers nowadays are looking for candidates with relevant information. Some of which receives if not thousands, at least hundreds of resumes every single day. Getting your resume noticed would not only increase your chances of being on their list but also a step closer to getting that job as well.
How about you? What's inside your resume? Do you feel it's crowded with too much information? Or is it lacking with substance?
Feel free to comment below!
Matthew 7:7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
In an age where information is abundant, it is important that we look for the right information at the right place. Specially when were looking for information regarding a job or a company that we want to work for. In my search to find useful information regarding companies I wanted to work for, I ended up with Glassdoor.
What is Glassdoor?
Quoting directly from their website, Glassdoor is the
world's most transparent career community that is changing the way people find
jobs, and companies recruit top talent.
And it totally makes sense! Why? Simply because it is the home to a database of at least 6 million company reviews, CEO approval
ratings, salary reports, interview reviews and questions, office photos and
more.
And all of this information comes from the most trusted source - their employees. Yes, you heard it right, straight from their employees. Think of it as a notebook, full of testimonies towards their companies.
So why Glassdoor?
As I have mentioned, we are living in an age where information is abundant and that people are not afraid to express themselves in ways we couldn't have imagined before. And now that it is readily available at a touch of a finger, we should be utilizing it in its full potential. Glassdoor gives you a glimpse of what's in store for you! Not only that, it gives you information explicitly like company culture, salary benchmarks, etc.
Want to know more about a company you'd love to work for? Then don't waste your time, learn more about them! Prepare for than interview!
Be informed!
Genesis 11:6 And the Lord said,
“Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language, and this is only
the beginning of what they will do. And nothing that they propose to do will
now be impossible for them.
Yeah! Today was the first day of our race and guess what? We're moving forward to round two! Party on! Say what? Hope that we can advance further to Semi-Finals!
NCKU-IIMBA Dragon Boat team 2014
But, did you know that other than the race itself, one of the most important traditions during Dragon Boat festival involves balancing eggs? You heard me right! Eggs... Balancing eggs! According to Taiwanese tradition, Egg Balancing would bring good luck and fortune! Moreover, this has been a popular craze all over the world!
Quoting from Ms. Ottavia Huang's Blog, during the dragon boat festival, the pull of gravity tends to be at its strongest during the position of Earth in respect with the Sun in our solar system.
Solar Solstice (This year's June 1st-2nd)
This phenomena however has been proven to have no significant connection in the Earth's position. They mentioned that it's solely due to the mood and concentration of the one who balances the egg and that the eggs may be balanced any time of the year.
My good friend Otta's egg balancing activity
Why keep on doing it then if it's proven already that there's not scientific fact behind it? Well, it's fun! Balancing those eggs can be a huge challenge! really! Moreover, it's about the tradition! It wouldn't hurt anyone to actually try it and even receive good luck and fortune, right?
So here's what we will do! I'll give you a chance to win a 500 NTD Carrefour Gift check by posting a photo of yourself and as many eggs balanced as possible! Yes, a selfie with all those eggs you've balanced!
Rules and Regulations:
1. Everyone can join the competition however the winner will only be for people who are in Taiwan.
2. Take a photo of yourself together with as many eggs as possible tomorrow at exactly 12:00 noon.
3. Post it on Facebook with #Balancingemeggsup and tagging my name Aldrin Perez Atienza as well as this blog.
4. The person who got the highest number of standing eggs on June 2nd will win the prize.
So what are you waiting for? Train yourself! Prepare! And Balance 'em eggs up!
My blog's been up now for 3 months now and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for taking a moment of your time to read my articles. I will do my best to keep on updating my blog for as much as I can for your viewing entertainment! I hope that you are learning a lot from the things that I have posted in this blog.
More importantly, however, one of my friends asked a very important question: Have you done a post about working in Taiwan as a Foreigner/Filipino? And, honestly speaking, nope, not even once, which was actually weird since this is a blog that highlights my experience in Taiwan as a foreign professional. Therefore, thanks to Ms. Amy Hubbard, I have prepared a very nice article for everyone especially for those who are aspiring to work here in Taiwan.
TYPES OF WORKERS IN TAIWAN
Basically, there are two types of workers in Taiwan namely the Blue collared and the White collared workers. Blue collar workers are skilled laborers or foreigners working as household helpers or factory workers and are working under a binding contract of a specific time period. On the other hand, White collar workers are foreigners working in a specialized or technical work.
THINGS TO REMEMBER
So, I heard that you really want to work in Taiwan. Here you go! I've prepared an infograph just for you! The infograph below dictates information and requirements if you would like to work here in Taiwan. I'll give a brief explanation for each block right after the infograph. NOTE: If you want a copy fo the Inforgraph, just send me a message or place a comment below!
WAYS OF LANDING A JOB IN TAIWAN
There are different ways in order for you to land a job here in Taiwan. The most common among all of them would be graduating from a legitimate Degree program here in Taiwan. There's a ton of universities here in Taiwan that offers scholarships for a 2 year MA or MBA degree. After graduation, the government of Taiwan then gives you the opportunity to be hired by letting you stay in Taiwan for 6 more additional months.
Been there, done that? Well try checking some online job searching sites such as 104.com.tw, 1111.com.tw (Yes, they are all numbers) and Orseek.com.tw. These websites are popular job search engines here in Taiwan. However, take note that 104 and 1111 are all in Mandarin. I suggest that you either ask help from a friend who can read and write in Chinese but if you don't, then Google translate can assist you but it may not be as good as you think.
IMPORTANT RULES AND REGULATIONS
Of course, it's important that as a foreign worker that you know your rights, and equally important, your requirements. Your company must sponsor your ARC or Alien Residence card as per Taiwan government regulations. In order for the process to proceed, you must supply your employer with the following documents:
1. Highest Degree Diploma
2. Recent 2x2 Photo (according to Taiwan regulations)
3. Proof of Residency / Rent Contract
Your employer will print a copy of your contract and then apply for a work permit for you. After receiving the work permit, you should then proceed and apply for your ARC.
Now, let's talk about Salary! According to regulations, the minimum salary for Foreigners in Taiwan is 47,971 NTD. However, it should be clear that there are certain exemptions and this includes the salary for Research Assistants (Bachelors 31,250 NTD & Masters 36,050 NTD) as well as graduates from universities in Taiwan (37,619 NTD, Yes, if you finished your masters, that is the minimum wage according to the law). Take note that all deductions such as Tax and health insurances are excluded and are allowed to be deducted from your salary. It depends upon your skills in negotiation and experience on how you would be able to work things out.
MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, TIPS, AND CONCLUSION
It's been two years now since I became a part of the workforce here in Taiwan. And I must say, it is a feat that I am really proud of. We all know that we are away from our families and that living alone takes the best out of us. Experiencing rejection (at least 85% of the time) was probably that something that I will always remember from my experience here in Taiwan. I didn't work in the corporate world right away to tell you the truth. I think not every one knows. I was a Cram School teacher for a year right after MBA. However, being a Filipino that I am, I was rejected by almost every single Cram school employer out there, except for one! I received a phone call one day and he said "Why don't we try and see first, then I'll decide". To cut it short, I got the job and I became an English Cram school teacher! And I am very proud to be one! Because I learned that educating children is something that I can hold on to forever. I was able to make a difference in those kids lives.
But I had to move forward. I was hungry for more! I started throwing my CV's everywhere in 104 and in 1111. However, to no avail, I always face either of the two situations: A. My Chinese was not enough and/or B. The salary offered was way too low. I guess this connects to the tips that I could share to everyone who's reading this article right now.
TIP 1: Never give up! Just keep sending out those CVs!
TIP 2: Never lose hope! Hope is something that keeps you going!
TIP 3: Never give in! Don't you ever accept a low salary! It's your right!
TIP 4: Lastly, never tie yourself in Taiwan if you really couldn't find one.
My experience in Taiwan has been a life changing experience. It gave me a broader horizon and numerous opportunities. I guess this is one reason why I started this blog. I guess I want other people to have that life changing experience as well and grow as an individual. I sincerely invite you to come here in Taiwan and experience the Life of an Expat!
Genesis 12:1 Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go from your
country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show
you.
How's your weekend guys! Mine? Tiring! Dragon Boat races are just around the corner and we started our boat practices last Saturday (my back was aching until yesterday!). Other than Dragon Boat, our Thai friends here in National Cheng Kung University celebrated their Songkran Festival (Thai Water Festival) last Sunday. Quite a week eh? But it was definitely a fun-filled weekend!
I think I was way too happy in this photo... =_="
The question of the day was brought to you by LinkedIn. You know guys, I really do suggest that you apply for a LinkedIn account (especially for professionals). I picked up a lot of useful articles, insights, and cases just from my daily news feed. Like our question for today! The Old vs. The New!
I think it's obvious that everyone of us have that "salesperson" within us since we were kids. You don't believe me? Well, remember that time on 1st grade when you have a lot of candies but you would like to take a sip from your classmate's "oh-so" delicious chocolate milk drink? That's right! Your first barter trade! Or when your seatmate in highschool forgot to bring a piece of paper for that surprise quiz? And guess who supplied the whole class in exchange for a few change? That's right, You! But in this day and time, the way that the game is played changes more often than not in order to cope up with the times. Like our model above.
THE OLD
A well dressed Sales Representative will walk around town, knocking on your doorstep and fronting a big smile. Instead of receiving emails, most people would receive phone calls. These phone calls would come from Sales Representatives who would do their best to offer their products during your conversation. The good old times, right? However, is it still efficient in this time? In my opinion, the answer is "No".
THE NEW
In this age and time, information is most likely the most valuable asset for new generation sales representatives. Every single one of your potential customer are connected in the world wide web, and most likely owns at least 3 social networking accounts. Instead of giving a demo on how your product works, why not educate them of the importance of your product? Engaging the customers helps them get more involved with how they wanted their product to be which in turn helps increase the chances of having your products sold.
CONCLUSION
We all know that times change, so does our market, and the ways we engage with them. We are now facing a market with complex needs and wants, with the fact that all of them are educated and well informed buyers. So let's keep up with the tide! Make a change!
Proverbs 16:3
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he
will establish your plans.
I can still remember the moment that I watched the very first video from their Youtube account. It was a video full of emotions as they gave everyone the glimpse of what happens in most break-ups (watch it! It's worth it!). But most of all, their recent video regarding Expectations caught me the most. You can check their video below.
I've been there specially for the most part! Growing up, I remember that my family used to call me "Attorney" or I would hear that I'll become a doctor someday (which failed greatly when they found out that I was afraid of blood when I was a kid...Shame on you Aldrin! haha). This then brings me to my next topic! One of 9gag's most famous meme: The Asian Dad!
I have to be honest though, my parents weren't really as sadistic as these fellows! hahaha but kidding aside, I guess this is one of the most prominent issues most Asians face. Admit it! What's the most common line for most parents (especially for Filipino families)? Mag-aral ka ng mabuti! (tans: STUDY HARD!). This measures causes extreme pressure that leads to lower self-esteem and great fear over failures.
I remember that by the time that I reached my last year in Highschool, my family told me that I should make my own decisions. That I should bear the responsibility of choosing the university degree that I want (but not disregarding the fact that it should land me on a high paying job! Just kidding! Love you mom and dad!). I can't deny the fact that expectations are good, but if taken to extremes may lead to chaos.
Sometimes I ask myself, why can't people just be who they wanted to be? Like the video I showed you, I think it's time that we give our kids a chance to make a choice. Don't worry! I'm not asking you to abandon them, but i'm asking you to be their guide (and not their dictator).
"Life isn't perfect and so are we"
Philippians 4:6
Do not be anxious
about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known to God.
The question for today is a simple picture I saw while browsing through Facebook. So here's my question for today! Which equation works for you? "Income less savings is equal to your expenses" or "income less expenses is equal to your savings"?
Let's talk about our spending ways and discuss which is actually the correct way, or I think this question is vital specially for young adults like me (Yes, I am still young!). And I would like to share to you my thoughts regarding this matter.
Let's start by defining the following items! All of these definitions came from Merriam-Webster's website.
-The excess of income over consumption expenditures.
After learning about their definitions, let's now look at the two equation.
Let's start with the first equation:
INCOME - EXPENSES = SAVINGS
In a general way, we always believe that what is left is what we can keep. Like how our salaries are computed (Gross Income less deductions is equal to Net Income/Take away pay).
This equation in my opinion however is an inefficient way of saving. Why? It's simply because most of us would tend to indulge ourselves in numerous miscellaneous expenditures. Come on, let's be honest, most of us would love to have that latest Smartphone model, a brand new next generation console (for guys), or that nice dress, those perfect pair of shoes (for girls). No need to deny it, I'm guilty of this as well. We all are. Those who have credit cards are often a victim of this as we are attracted by 0% interests with a "6-month" payment term.
How do you control this? Well, I think it works well if you know how to prioritize. Prioritizing which are the required expenses for a given period will change the outcome drastically. Next one is self-satisfaction, because what you want is that those savings be used mainly for special and important expenditures. However, if you're not satisfied, most of us would say "it's okay to spend my savings for one more pair of shoes since the first one didn't suit me well".
"We'll always find reasons to use our savings when we're not satisfied of what we have."
INCOME - SAVINGS = EXPENSES
For the next equation, I for one believe that this is not the common way of spending specially for most Filipinos. However, this is known to be the most effective way of "Saving". This way of savings was recently pertained to as the "Kurot" (Pinching) way of saving. This is definitely a "frugal" way of saving money (by the way, being frugal is not being a cheapskate!). When we take savings into account first and then spend for what is left, we feel less guilty of spending it since we know that we already have a part of it safe inside a bank.
However, the issue here is the portion of the money we have to save! Most of us end up saving less to bring a big portion for spending. I guess we just have to be more conscious of the purpose of our savings. I mean saving another dollar more and spending another dollar less can really make a difference.
IT'S ALL ABOUT WHAT WE NEED AT PRESENT AND WHAT WE HOPE TO BE IN THE FUTURE
It's true! I mean, we all have immediate needs and wants as well as future goals and plans. I guess we have to ask ourselves, do I really need a brand new shirt? Could be, maybe because you're stress at work and shopping is your only way of relaxation. Maybe not, simply because your goal is to buy that car your family's been dreaming to drive next year.
People will always have different priorities and goals.
So which one suits you the most?
Proverbs 13:11
Wealth gained hastily
will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.
It has been part of my morning ritual at work to browse some useful tips and intriguing articles online before proceeding to the day's daunting tasks. While I was browsing, I landed on this article that brought to a very controversial question: Would you rather be praised or paid? IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MONEY Let's face it, MONEY is still and will always be the most important motivator for any employee! Don't you dare say no (You, yes you!)! Praises are good, but it would never bring food to the table especially for most Filipino expatriates like us who would want to send a portion of these hard earned income to our loved ones back home. HOWEVER, DOES MONEY LAST LONG ENOUGH TO KEEP YOU HAPPY? According to Motivation Matters, "Motivation and recognition have got to stem from something more long lasting and substantive than money". Which is actually true! For most of us, appreciation and recognition are factors that engages us to our companies and most importantly to our work. We have that yearning for simply being "thanked for" and recognized of our work and contribution in reaching the company's goals. However, there are a lot of questions to be answered here...
MONEY!
RECOGNITION!
Should you provide both?
When and how much compensation/recognition ratio should you give to your employees?
If you're given the responsibility of handling your own team in the future, what will you do given a situation like this?
Please feel free to provide your comments! Share your experiences!
Let your friends know more about motivation and recognition!
Psalm 37:5
Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act.
Riding my scooter after an Advent mass in Tainan, Taiwan (circa 2012)
It's summer time again here in Taiwan and it's definitely the best time to go traveling! However, it's a bit of a hassle to go around specially to remote places that are inaccessible to public transportation such as MRTs, trains, and even buses. Scooters, on the other hand, is a pretty popular mode of transportation both short and long distance travels most specially here in Taiwan. Scooters here in Taiwan are given access to numerous roads and highways but are banned to enter the expressways (except for motorcycles above 250 cc).
The question is, how do you get a motorcycle license in the first place?
GETTING A LICENSE: THE REQUIREMENTS
In order to get a license here in Taiwan, you should go to the nearest Motor Vehicle Office in your city together with the following items:
A.R.C card(at least one year residence period).
Three identical bust taken within the past six months one inch glossy printing paper black and white or color photos, no composite photos, full face front view with a plain white background and no wearing hat or headgear except for religious reasons, without dark glasses or glasses with tinted lenses unless it is for medical reasons.
A registration form with the qualified physical examination.
Fee: NTD 250.
The photo above is applicable to all government documents here in Taiwan
NOTE: The Physical examination is valid for a year and can be used as many times as you can (I used it for three times.. and I feel embarrassed that I failed three times T^T).
GETTING A LICENSE: THE WRITTEN EXAM
After providing the requirements to the officer-in-charge,you are now then qualified to take a 40-item, multiple choice, 1-hour long, computer based examination. This grueling examination is based on current rules and regulations as well as decision making scenarios and basic motorcycle etiquette. The test is translated into 8 different languages: Mandarin, English, Japanese, Bahasa (Indonesia), Thai, Vietnamese, Cambodian, and Burmese language.
The applicant must have a score of more than 85% or a maximum of 6 incorrect answers. This exam can be taken as much as you can for one year.
If you fail the written exam, you can only take it again after one week.
All materials are free to download from their website which can be found by clicking here!
NOTE: The items are translated accordingly, however, be careful as the translation may be far from its actual meaning. I have failed the test three times due to this reason.
TIPS:
NEVER RELY ON THE PRACTICE TEST ON THE WEBSITE, IT IS NOT ENOUGH
READ THE MATERIALS THOROUGHLY AND REMEMBER THE CORRESPONDING ANSWER
DO NOT RUSH, YOU HAVE AN HOUR! MAKE GOOD USE OF IT!
GETTING A LICENSE: THE PRACTICAL EXAM
The practical exam on the other hand is a very interesting part of the examination process. This exam can be taken on the same day right after receiving your passing mark for the written examination.
In this part of the exam, the applicant must have a score of more than 85%. The points to be deducted are based on the following criteria provided by the Licensing office:
First part: Straight-line stability test Straight-line balance riding: (only one makeup test is allowed.)
This part is scored independently and only one makeup test is allowed.
The time for passing the destination shall not be less than seven seconds. Wheels touching pipes (Do you mean a fence or barrier at the side of the road?) or feet touching the ground is treated as failure.
Those who pass this part shall continue with the test for dealing with aspects of driving in real road conditions; those who fail must sign up again for the driving test after at least seven days.
Criteria for deducting points:
Straight-line balance riding completed in fewer than seven seconds? 2 points.
Wheels touching pipes---32 points
Touching the ground with one or both feet---32 Second Part--- Test for dealing with aspects of driving in real road conditions Railroad crossing:
When the alarm bell rings and the red light flashes, the examinee shall stop at the stop line; the front wheel shall not go over the stop line.
In the event of power failure or breakdown of equipment such that the light is not working, the examinee still has to stop and then continue only after confirming no trains are coming from either side.
Criteria for deducting points:
Not stopping to check or driving straight through the railroad crossing ---32 points
Engine stalling or the driver stopping at the railroad crossing---32 points
Front wheel going over the stop line when stopping---32 points Forked road intersection:
The examinee has to ride while taking due note of the signs. He or she has to stop in front of the stop line when the green light flashes and then becomes a yellow light and then a red light: the front wheel must not go over the stop line.
In the event of power failure or breakdown of equipment such that the light is not working, the examinee still has to stop and then continue again after onfirming no vehicles are coming from either side.
Criteria for deducting points:
Not obeying the signs, ignoring the yellow and red lights ---32 points.
The front wheel going over the stop line when the light is red ---32 points.
Test for dealing with aspects of driving in real road conditions:
Please ride according to the signs, symbols and marking lines. When stopping is required, it can be done by either one or both feet touching the ground.
Where no stopping is required in the driving test surroundings, the feet shall not touch the ground nor the wheels the pipes (points to be deducted according to the review table of the driving test).
Those who lose less than 30 points can continue with the test.
Criteria for deducting points:
Engine stalling during riding (a serial deduction applies)---8 points
A single foot touching the ground during riding (a serial deduction applies)---8 points
Two feet touching the ground during riding (a serial deduction applies)---16 points
Causing accidents or falling down---32 points
Wheels touching pipes (a serial deduction applies)---16 points
Crosswalk:
The examinee shall stop in front of the stop line when the double-yellow light flashes; the front wheel must not go over the stop line.
In the event of power failure or breakdown of equipment such that the light is not working, the examinee still has to stop and continue only after confirming no vehicles are coming from the two sides.
Criteria for deducting points:
Not stopping or not letting pedestrians pass through first---32 points
Front wheel going over the stop line---32 points Other technical operations (A serial deduction applies in the same sub-item and the maximum points which may be deducted in this section is 18.)
Leaping forward (kangaroo hopping) of the machine caused by a fast start---2 points
Improper operation of clutch---2 points
Improper control of accelerator---2 points
Improper use of turn signals ---2 points
Below is a detailed video clip from YOUTUBE regarding the practical examination process here in Taiwan:
*Disclaimer: I do not own the video shown below*
The officer-in-charge will then give you a sheet of paper containing his signature of approval if you have passed the exam. Thereafter, you must proceed to their corresponding License Issuing Department.
And there you have it! Congratulations on getting your brand new scooter license! But always remember, be a responsible driver! Vehicular accidents are the number one cause of deaths here in Taiwan. Deaths includes, driving under the influence of alcohol or dangerous drugs as well as driving while using their mobile phones.
Enjoy your travel around Taiwan!
Psalm 23:1-4
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
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