I passed first time way back in early 1970's, but I had already been driving without L plates or supervision for a few years!
(Please don't report me to the cops!)
I passed my driving test in Florida first time as well, I wouldn't like to take a test now though - I know for sure that I would fail miserably.
Luckily, for other motorists, I seldom hit the road nowadays, only travel with a chauffeur!
The narrow unlit lanes around here scare me, especially when Range Rovers and the likes come at you on a bend in the middle of the road.
It's a pity really, as I was attending night classes at Otley College and Suffolk Uni in Ipswich - had to pack everything in due to my fear of driving at night.
Many congrats to your son Emm, a great achievement! Tell him WELL DONE!