Craig takes, passes N.Y. driving test

NEW YORK, Nov. 22 (UPI) -- British actor Daniel Craig took written and driving tests and sat through a five-hour safety course to obtain his New York driver's license, officials said.

Craig is the current portrayer of James Bond, a fictional superspy known for his frequent, death-defying car chases with assorted villains.

The New York Post said he earned his New York driver's license in September shortly before his latest 007 adventure "Skyfall" became a blockbuster.

Craig passed his written test, then went to Manhattan's Professional Driving School of the Americas on 23rd Street to take a five-hour classroom-based safety lesson.

"His assistant requested a special class for Daniel by himself. No other students were there," Richard Fernandez, an office manager at the driving school, told the Post. "He was such a nice dude, so friendly. ...

"No one is exempt, regardless of who you are," Fernandez said of the requirements for getting a New York driver's license.

He then took and passed his road test on Staten Island, the Post said.

Craig married longtime New York resident Rachel Weisz last year.