Djibouti Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Djibouti Driving Licence : Obtaining your driver’s license in Djibouti provides the freedom to explore this unique East African nation.

This guide covers everything you need to know about getting your Djiboutian driver’s permit, including license types, required documents, testing procedures, fees and more.

Types of Driver’s Licenses in Djibouti

There are different categories of driver’s licenses issued in Djibouti:

  • Category A – Motorcycles
  • Category A1 – Light motorcycles up to 125cc
  • Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500kg like cars and light trucks
  • Category C – Trucks over 3,500kg
  • Category D – Buses and other large passenger vehicles
  • Category BE, CE, DE – Heavy vehicle trailer categories

The minimum age to obtain a license is:

  • 16 years for Category A1 motorcycles
  • 18 years for Category A, B, and BE licenses
  • 21 years for Category C, CE, D, and DE truck and bus licenses

Documents Required for Djibouti Driving Licence

To apply for your Djiboutian driver’s license, you will need:

  • Completed application form
  • Valid passport and residency permit
  • Medical certificate from approved clinic
  • Eyesight exam certificate
  • Proof of completion of driving courses
  • Payment receipt of license fees
  • 4 passport-size photos

Taking the Theory Test in Djibouti

The theory test covers:

  • Traffic laws, signs, signals, and pavement markings
  • Safe driving techniques and hazard perception
  • Basic vehicle maintenance and operation
  • Emergency procedures

Tips for passing the theory test:

  • Study the government driver’s handbook carefully
  • Take practice theory tests to prepare
  • Bring ID, application, and health docs on exam day
  • There are 40 multiple choice questions
  • A minimum score of 80% is required to pass

Passing the Practical Driving Test in Djibouti

The practical test assesses driving skills through:

  • Vehicle safety checks
  • Basic driving maneuvers like parking, turns, reversing
  • Driving in traffic situations and on highways
  • Obeying traffic rules and signals

Tips for passing the driving test:

  • Use the driving school’s test vehicle
  • Check mirrors, signals, and blind spots
  • Control speed and stay focused
  • Be systematic in scanning for hazards
  • Demonstrate confidence and caution
  • The test takes around 30 minutes

Getting Your First Djibouti Driver’s License

Follow these steps to obtain your first driver’s license in Djibouti:

  1. Enroll in theory and practical driving lessons at licensed school
  2. Study for and pass the required written theory test
  3. Get medical certificate and eye exam from certified professionals
  4. Take and pass the practical on-road driving test
  5. Submit completed application and documents
  6. Pay license issuance fee
  7. Get photo taken for your license
  8. Receive new credit card-format driver’s license

Renewing a Djibouti Driver’s License

To renew your Djiboutian driver’s license:

  • Licenses are valid for 5 years from date of issue
  • Renewal process can begin 6 months before expiration
  • Visit license office and submit renewal application
  • Complete new medical and eye exams
  • Pay renewal fee of around DF 2000
  • New license will be issued valid for 5 years

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Djibouti License

If your Djiboutian driver’s license is lost or stolen, you must replace it within 15 days by:

  • Filing a police report regarding the missing license
  • Bringing police report to license office
  • Submitting replacement application and health certificates
  • Paying replacement fee of around DF 3000
  • Getting a replacement license printed with same validity

Changing Your Address on a Djibouti License

When you move within Djibouti, you must update your driver’s license within 15 days:

  • Bring current license and proof of new address
  • Fill out change of address application
  • Pay address change fee of around DF 500
  • New license will be printed with updated address

Traffic Violations and Penalties in Djibouti

Djibouti enforces traffic laws and fines offenses including:

  • Speeding – Fines from DF 2000 up to DF 8000
  • Running red light – DF 3000 fine
  • Reckless driving – DF 5000 fine and license points
  • Drunk driving – Heavy fines, license suspension
  • Driving without license – Up to DF 10,000 fine

Serious or repeat offenses can lead to driver’s license suspension or revocation.

FAQs on Djibouti Driving Licence

1. How old do I need to be to drive in Djibouti?

The minimum age is 18 years for a standard Category B car license.

2. What vehicles can I drive with a Category B license?

A Category B license covers motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg such as passenger cars and light trucks.

3. Is my Djibouti license valid internationally?

No, you need an International Driving Permit to legally drive outside Djibouti.

4. Do I need to take driving classes before testing?

Yes, required theory and practical lessons at a licensed school are mandatory.

5. When does my Djibouti license expire?

Licenses are valid for 5 years from date of issue before requiring renewal.

Conclusion

From license categories to renewal processes, this guide has provided everything you need to successfully obtain your driver’s license in Djibouti. Follow the testing procedures and traffic rules to safely explore Djibouti’s striking landscapes and vibrant capital city with your new freedom to drive!