Rock Icon Suzi Quatro Achieves Driving Milestone at Age 75
Legendary rock star Suzi Quatro, aged 75, has passed her driving test in the UK, marking a significant personal achievement after discovering she had been driving illegally for over five decades on a US licence. The Detroit-born musician, who moved to England in 1971, celebrated the news with a glass of Moet & Chandon Champagne and a frozen cheese pizza, describing the moment as a huge relief.
Decades of Unintended Illegal Driving Uncovered
Suzi Quatro revealed that she only recently learned her American driving licence was only valid for 12 months after entering the UK, a fact she was unaware of since relocating at age 21. Speaking exclusively from her home in Chelmsford, Essex, which she shares with her husband, concert promoter Rainer Haas, Quatro explained the oversight. "I was told when I started to drive in this country that my American licence was fine. And, over the years, I was insured, I had speeding tickets," she said. The issue came to light in January due to changes in US laws, which require proof of residency in the state of issuance for licence renewal, prompting her to obtain a British licence.
Test Day Nerves and Celebration Details
Taking the test in Clacton-on-Sea, Quatro admitted to feeling anxious but passed with only minor errors. "I passed! I’m so pleased. It’s such a relief. I got a couple of minors, nothing big. Honest to God, it’s a joke - I’m 75. I’ve been driving since I was 16," she exclaimed. Her husband was overjoyed, sending messages to friends worldwide. After the test, Quatro celebrated with Champagne, joking with her instructor about not driving afterward, and enjoyed a simple frozen pizza, highlighting the contrast in her celebration style.
Regaining Independence and Future Plans
For weeks, Quatro had to display L plates on her Mercedes and be chaperoned everywhere, which she found challenging after years of independence. "Tomorrow morning I will go to my local shop and get my daily newspaper without asking anyone to come with me. With my L plates on, I’ve had to be chaperoned everywhere for weeks. Do you know how that feels after so many years of being independent? It’s a weird feeling, your freedom taken away," she shared. Now, with her new licence, she plans to burn the L plates and looks forward to her upcoming UK tour starting in April and the release of her new album Freedom on March 27.
A Year of Major Achievements
This driving test success is part of a series of milestones for Quatro in 2026, including becoming a British citizen three weeks ago. "It was a fine drive. I practiced so hard. I’m on fire this year. British citizen, passed my driving test, new album and tour - it’s been quite the 2026 so far," she said. With over 55 million records sold and a thriving career, Quatro continues to inspire as a trailblazer in the music industry and beyond.
