So I have some good news and some bad news...

I passed my driving test! They had to give me a paper license though and I must wait for the physical permit to come in the post. Something to do with verification as it's a temporary license. Some lad/las at the FBI probably just wants to make sure I'm not trying to live here and conduct illegal activities... Sorry Uncle Sam, I am rather boring actually!

I spoke to an amazing representative

at Progressive tonight, called Sabrina; who is able to insure me for around 400USD for 6 months, which is way more sensible than some of the quotes I've been getting! She was so helpful and was really keen to get me on the road with no hassle; she explained everything and gave me the best advice, let alone the best price - so insurance is now in place.

I have been reminded by CBP in Savannah on more than one occasion that EPA Approval is not needed for a temporary import, but I read too many horror stories tonight and have now requested approval by email to the EPA in case the car cannot be released from the port for whatever reason. Given the time it will take for the approval to come through, it would mean a repeat trip but I get 10 free working days on the port to leave the car (after which there are storage charges) - so if all else fails, I should get EPA approval before I need to start paying port charges. At best, I will be stamped and advised not to worry about it as per my original received advice.

The other thing is going to be getting my paperwork stamped for longer than my current visit. Although I only leave for a short time to come back on a J1 visa, my ESTA does mean I need to leave the country in this instance by April 20th, though I have read that other people have left and come back without a problem.. Just need the right stamp :-/

At worst, I can't get the car out and I lose a couple of thousand dollars - I have my health.