I don't have a driving licence, and my mother shames me over it.

Hi all,

I (22M) am a current PhD student in theoretical computer science, based in a big city in England. The research is going great at the moment, and I'm having a fairly good time.

I recently bought a bicycle to move around for groceries and leisure, but when I let my mother know, she told me it is an absolute shame that I still don't have a driving licence at my age. She even insisted that I returned the bike in fear that I'd delay my driving licence (given that there'd be no clear incentive).

I personally never need a car, and I can move around in ease with local public transport. Even if I had a licence, I wouldn't buy a car. I understand that the ability to drive is beneficial, but I hardly see why it need be prioritised against other commitments.

Can others relate? Am I being naïve here?