Rock Icon Suzi Quatro's Shocking Driving Revelation
Rock and roll legend Suzi Quatro has made a startling discovery at age 75 – she has been driving illegally in the United Kingdom for more than five decades. The Detroit-born musician, who moved to Britain in 1971, only learned in January that her American driver's license was not valid for continuous use in the UK.
The Legal Oversight That Lasted Decades
"I was told when I started to drive in this country that my American licence was fine," Quatro explained during an exclusive interview. "And over the years I was insured, I had speeding tickets." However, the reality is that a US license is only valid for 12 months after entering the UK. This meant Quatro has been driving without proper authorization since the early 1970s.
The situation came to light when US regulations changed, requiring license renewal applicants to prove they had spent the previous six months in their home state. "I can't prove that because I live here," Quatro stated. "So I needed a British licence."
Preparing for the British Driving Test
Now facing her first British driving test, the normally fearless performer admits to feeling anxious. "I'm a pretty brave person. But being tested is terrifying," she confessed from her Grade II listed manor house in Chelmsford, Essex. The prospect of displaying L plates on her Mercedes particularly frustrates her. "L plates. They drive me round the bend. I'm 75 for god's sake, I've been driving since I was 16."
Quatro humorously suggested, "I'm hoping whoever tests me is a fan. Wouldn't it be great if I got someone testing me who hates my music?"
A Trailblazing Career Continues
Despite this driving dilemma, Quatro's musical career continues to thrive. Her latest album, Freedom, releases on March 27 and marks a return to her classic rock roots. "People are calling this my best work," she revealed. "My voice is still in perfect shape - the rest of me is in shape too."
The album features 13 tracks and includes a duet with longtime friend Alice Cooper. "We've known each other since he was 15 and I was 17," Quatro noted. "He calls me his little sister."
Recent British Citizenship and Life in the UK
Three weeks prior to our interview, Quatro became a British citizen. "The queen of rock and roll swore allegiance to the King of England," she laughed. While maintaining her Detroit identity, she expressed deep affection for her adopted country. "I love this country. I've put down roots here. My children were born and raised here."
She praised British characteristics, saying, "I like your fairness. You're fair people. I think you're the most democratic nation in the world. I love your sense of humour, but it takes a bit of getting used to."
A Pioneering Legacy and Future Plans
As the first female rock star to break major gender barriers by fronting a band, playing bass, and singing, Quatro redefined women's roles in music with her signature leather jumpsuit. "I still wear it," she confirmed, "and I still play two hour shows."
She attributes her professional approach to her upbringing. "I'm not a sex, drugs and rock and roll girl, never have been - I'm a professional. I've never had a drink and then gone onstage."
In April, Quatro will embark on a 10-date UK tour. Her post-show routine remains consistent: "After a gig I have one glass of Champagne with the band, then I go to my room. I want no TV on, no noise."
Regarding retirement, Quatro remains defiant. "Someone once asked me when I was going to retire when I was 35. Isn't that crazy? And look at me now - I'm 75 and still pitch perfect." She has established clear criteria for when she might step back: "I will retire when I go on stage and I do not deliver to my standard. I will know it."
For now, the rock legend continues to perform, record, and navigate the unexpected challenges of British bureaucracy, proving that even after 62 years in music, life can still present surprising new tests.
