License to Drive

License to Drive

Year: 1988

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Greg Beeman

Comedy

A teenager named Les Anderson faces more than just failing his driver's test; his life takes an unexpected turn when he borrows his family's luxury car to impress Mercedes Lane. Determined to enjoy a date despite his lack of a license, Les finds himself in a chaotic situation when Mercedes becomes incapacitated and his troublemaking friend, Dean, joins the adventure. What begins as a simple attempt at romance quickly spirals into a series of mishaps and hilarious consequences.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – License to Drive (1988)

Explore the full timeline and setting of License to Drive (1988). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Contemporary

The movie takes place in a contemporary setting, reflecting the society and youth culture of the late 1980s to early 1990s. This time frame is characterized by a focus on personal freedom, the introduction of new technology, and a burgeoning car culture that resonates strongly with teenagers seeking independence.

Location

Southern California

Southern California is known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, featuring sun-drenched streets that embody a carefree lifestyle. This region is famous for its beaches, entertainment industry, and bustling urban life, making it an ideal setting for youthful adventures and personal growth.

🌞 Southern California 🚗 Urban

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:56

Main Characters – License to Drive (1988)

Meet the key characters of License to Drive (1988), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Les Anderson (Corey Haim)

Les is a determined 17-year-old who embodies the typical teenage quest for autonomy and acceptance. His character is marked by youthful naivety and a mix of confidence and insecurity as he navigates relationships and the challenges of adulthood.

👦 Teenager 🚗 Adventurous

Mercedes Lane (unknown actor)

Mercedes is portrayed as the alluring object of Les's affection, symbolizing both desire and the complexities of young romance. Her character brings a sense of excitement to the story and acts as a catalyst for Les's adventures.

❤️ Romantic Interest 🎉 Fun

Dean (unknown actor)

Dean is Les's best friend, who provides support during their escapades. His loyalty and willingness to help Les navigate the consequences of their reckless behavior highlight the importance of friendships during teenage years.

👬 Best Friend 🎭 Supportive

Mrs. Anderson (unknown actor)

Mrs. Anderson plays a crucial role in Les's home life, showcasing the typical parent-child dynamic. Her discovery of Les's antics adds to the comedic elements of the story and represents parental concern during the teenage transition.

👩‍👧‍👦 Parent 🎭 Concerned

Robert Anderson (unknown actor)

Robert is Les's father, who enforces rules and consequences that reflect parental authority. His character often serves as the voice of reason, juxtaposing Les's reckless pursuits with a reminder of responsibility.

👨‍👧‍👦 Parent 🎭 Authoritative

Grandpa (unknown actor)

Les's grandfather adds a humorous twist to the narrative, embodying a carefree spirit despite his age. His character provides comic relief and serves as a reminder of generational differences in attitudes toward freedom and responsibility.

👴 Elderly 🎉 Humorous

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:56

Major Themes – License to Drive (1988)

Explore the central themes of License to Drive (1988), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🏎️ Freedom

The theme of freedom is central to the narrative, represented by Les's quest to obtain his driver's license. This desire for independence drives the plot and highlights the youthful urge to break free from parental constraints, embark on adventures, and explore personal identity.

❤️ Romance

Romance plays a significant role in the film as Les's pursuit of Mercedes serves as a catalyst for his actions. Their relationship develops amid chaos and youthful recklessness, emphasizing the excitement and naivety of young love during a carefree era.

🎉 Recklessness

The theme of recklessness is evident in the characters' decisions, particularly during the joyride and their attempts to cover up their mistakes. This theme mirrors the impulsivity of youth and the consequences that often follow, revealing the fine line between fun and trouble.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:56

Unlock the Full Story of License to Drive

Don't stop at just watching — explore License to Drive in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what License to Drive is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

License to Drive Summary

Read a complete plot summary of License to Drive, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

License to Drive Summary

License to Drive Timeline

Track the full timeline of License to Drive with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

License to Drive Timeline

More About License to Drive

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about License to Drive: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About License to Drive

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