Lesson 16 Should I stay or should I go?

Driving a car gives you the freedom to travel by yourself or with just your family or friends instead of taking a plane or train with hundreds of other people. But what does Hiromi get wrong when Tim tells her about his travel plans?

Tim: I’m thinking of renting a car and driving to Kyoto next month. I have my Australian driver’s license.
Hiromi: You should get an international driver’s license to drive a car in Japan though.

Did you see the error? We use “should” to give advice or recommendations, such as “If you go to Kyoto, you should visit Kiyomizu-dera.” But the law says that Tim needs to have an international driver’s license to drive in Japan, so Hiromi should say, “You must get an international driver’s license.” So remember to use “must” not “should” for necessary actions. Anyway, I must go. See you next time.