Albania Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Albania Driving Licence: Obtaining a driving licence in Albania allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in Albania:

Types of Driving Licences

There are different categories of driving licences issued in Albania:

• Category A – Motorcycles
• Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg and designed to carry no more than 8 passengers plus the driver
• Category C – Vehicles over 3,500 kg
• Category D – Vehicles designed to carry more than 8 passengers plus the driver
• Category T – Tractors and work vehicles

Eligibility and Minimum Ages

To be eligible for a driving licence in Albania, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old for Category T licence
• Be at least 18 years old for Category A, B, and C licences
• Pass the required exams (theory and practical)
• Be medically fit to drive

Licence Validity

• Category A licence is valid for 6 years
• Category B licence is valid for 10 years
• Category C and D licences are valid for 5 years
• Category T licence is valid for 15 years

Licences must be renewed before expiration to continue driving legally.

New Residents and Tourists

If you are a new resident or tourist in Albania, you can drive using a valid foreign driving licence for up to 1 year. After this, you will need to apply for an Albanian driving licence by passing the required exams.

Obtaining Your First Albania Driving Licence

Here is the process to obtain your first Albanian driving licence:

1. Enroll in a Driving School

• Find a certified driving school and enroll in their training program.
• Complete both theoretical and practical driving lessons.
• The minimum number of required lessons are:
  • Category B: 28 theory lessons, 26 practice lessons
  • Category A: 12 theory lessons, 16 practice lessons

2. Book and Pass Theory Test

• Once your driving school determines you are ready, they will register you for the theory test.
• The theory test has 40 multiple choice questions testing your knowledge of road signs, rules, regulations etc.
• You must score at least 85% to pass.

3. Book and Pass Practical Test

• After passing the theory test, you can take the practical driving test with the General Directorate of Road Transport Services.
• You will be tested on your vehicle handling skills and ability to drive safely.
• If you pass the practical test, you will be issued a driving licence.

4. Obtain Your Licence Card

• After passing both exams, apply for your physical driving licence card at the General Directorate of Road Transport Services.
• Submit the required documents and fees to obtain your card within 30 days.
• You cannot drive until you obtain the physical card.

Renewing Your Albanian Driving Licence

To continue driving legally in Albania, you must renew your driving licence before it expires:

• Licences must be renewed in person at the General Directorate of Road Transport Services.
• Bring your existing licence and medical certificate confirming you are fit to drive.
• Pass an eyesight test and have new photo taken.
• For category A and B renewals, you do not need to retake the driving exams.
• Pay the licence renewal fee.
• You will be issued a renewed licence card valid for the next validity period.

Replacing Your Lost or Stolen Licence

If your Albanian driving licence is lost, stolen or damaged, you must replace it within 30 days:

• Report the loss to the police and obtain a certification of loss or theft.
• Apply for replacement at the General Directorate of Road Transport Services.
• Present the police report, old licence if available, and medical certificate.
• Pay the replacement fee and have your photo taken.
• You will be issued a duplicate licence card.

Changing Your Address on Your Licence

If you change your residence address in Albania, you must update it on your driving licence within 30 days:

• Visit the General Directorate of Road Transport Services.
• Present proof of your new address such as utility bill or rent agreement.
• Surrender your current licence and pay the change of address fee.
• You will be issued an updated licence card showing your new address.

Getting an International Driving Permit

To drive in other countries, you may need to get an International Driving Permit (IDP):

• IDPs are issued in Albania by the Albanian Automobile Club.
• Bring your valid Albanian licence, passport photos, photocopies of documents.
• Complete application form and pay fee.
• You will be issued an IDP valid for 1 year.
• Carry both your licence and IDP when driving abroad.

Traffic Rules and Regulations in Albania

When driving in Albania, you must follow these main traffic rules and regulations:

General Rules

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Wear seat belts at all times.
• Use hand signals when turning or stopping.
• Yield to pedestrians at crossings.
• Use headlights at night and in poor visibility.

Speed Limits

• 50 km/h in urban areas
• 90 km/h on main highways
• 130 km/h on motorways

Documentation

• Carry your licence, vehicle registration, and insurance papers at all times.

Fines

• Speeding fines start from ALL 3,000
• Running red lights/stop sign fines from ALL 10,000
• Driving uninsured vehicle fines up to ALL 40,000

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines

If you commit a traffic violation in Albania, here is the process to resolve fines:

Pay the Fine

• Fines must be paid within 30 days of violation.
• Pay at a licensed bank or post office.
• Keep receipt as proof of payment.

Appeal the Fine

• If you wish to appeal, submit a request to the police within 30 days.
• Provide evidence supporting your appeal.
• If accepted, fine may be reduced or waived.

Licence Suspension

• Licence may be suspended if fines unpaid after 60 days.
• Licences of new drivers suspended after just 2 fines.
• To regain licence, fines must be paid in full.

Administrative Charges

• Unpaid fines are subject to additional administrative fees.
• After 90 days, fines double. After 120 days, debt referred for court processing.

FAQ on Albanian Driving Licences