As I have never taken a driver s test in Portland, OR, I cannot really compare. But I can say that I passed the test here in the Houston area and so did my husband and both of my kids. I bet you will too. Try reading the handbook prior to going and get to the DPS place early so you can get your name on the list for a driving test just as soon as possible. I get the impression that the actual driving test varies from tester to tester.
I really don t think the Driver s Test here is any different from any other large city. Just make sure you study the manual can drive decently. Oh, please use your turn signal and move right if you are driving slower than the car behind you!