Andorra Driving Licence: Obtaining a driving licence in Andorra allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in Andorra:
Types of Driving Licences
There are different categories of driving licences issued in Andorra:
- Category AM – Mopeds
- Category A1 – Light motorcycles
- Category A2 – Standard motorcycles
- Category A – Unrestricted motorcycles
- Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg and 8 passenger seats
- Category C1 – Vehicles 3,500- 7,500 kg
- Category C – Vehicles over 7,500 kg
- Category D1 – Minibuses (9-16 passengers)
- Category D – Buses and other large vehicles
Eligibility and Minimum Ages
To be eligible for a driving licence in Andorra, you must:
- Be at least 16 years old for Category AM and A1
- Be at least 18 years old for Categories A2, B, B+E, C1, C1+E
- Be at least 20 years old for Categories C and D1
- Pass the required theory and practical driving exams
- Meet medical requirements
Licence Validity
- Category AM valid until age 18
- Category A1 valid for 3 years
- Category A2, B, BE valid for 10 years
- Category C, D valid for 5 years
Licences must be renewed before expiration to continue driving legally.
New Residents and Tourists
New residents can drive on their valid EU licence for 6 months. Non-EU licence holders need to apply for an Andorran licence within 90 days. Tourists can drive on foreign licences for up to 6 months.
Obtaining Your First Andorra Driving Licence
Here are the steps to get your first driving licence in Andorra:
1. Enroll in a Driving School
- Find and register with a certified driving school.
- Take mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
- Minimum lessons are 26 theory and 26 practical.
2. Book and Pass Theory Test
- When ready, the driving school will register you for the theory test.
- The test has 40 multiple choice questions on road knowledge.
- Pass with at least 35 correct answers out of 40.
3. Take and Pass Practical Test
- Upon passing theory test, take the practical test with examiners.
- You will be assessed on vehicle inspection, road sign knowledge, driving skills, and maneuverability.
- Passing score is 34 points out of 47.
4. Obtain Your Driving Licence Card
- After passing both exams, apply for your licence at the Public Registry Office.
- Present ID, photos, medical certificate, and pay fee.
- Your licence card will be issued within 30 days.
Renewing Your Andorran Driving Licence
To continue driving legally in Andorra, you must renew your licence before expiration:
- Renewal can be done up to 3 months before expiry.
- Submit renewal application at Public Registry Office.
- Provide current licence, new photos, medical certificate.
- Pay renewal fee.
- New card issued with updated validity.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence
If your driving licence is lost, stolen or damaged:
- Report loss/theft to the police and obtain a certification.
- Apply for replacement at the Public Registry Office within 15 days.
- Provide police report, along with any remnants of old licence.
- Pay fee for updated licence card.
Changing Your Address on Your Licence
When you change residence address in Andorra:
- Notify the Public Registry Office within 15 days.
- Provide proof of new address.
- Pay fee to update and replace licence card.
- New card will show updated address.
Getting an International Driving Permit
To drive in other countries, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP):
- Andorran Automobile Club issues IDPs.
- Bring current licence, passport photos, photocopies.
- Complete application and pay fee.
- Carry both your licence and IDP when driving abroad.
Traffic Rules and Regulations in Andorra
When driving in Andorra, you must follow these main traffic rules:
General Rules
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Wear seat belts front and back
- Use child safety seats as required
- Yield to pedestrians at crossings
Speed Limits
- 50 km/h urban areas
- 90 km/h secondary roads
- 120 km/h highways
Fines
- Speeding fines from €100 to €600
- Running red light – €200
- Driving without licence – €600
Alcohol and Drugs
- Legal limit is 0.5 g/l alcohol
- Drug driving also illegal
Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines
If you receive a traffic fine in Andorra:
Pay the Fine
- Fines can be paid at police station or online.
- Pay within 20 days for early discount.
- Fines double if unpaid after 30 days.
Appeal the Fine
- Submit appeal letter to police within 20 days.
- Provide evidence supporting your case.
- Fine may be waived if appeal accepted.
Licence Suspension
- Licence may be suspended for major violations.
- Accumulating 12+ points in 3 years also results in suspension.
- Attend driving improvement course to regain licence.
Administrative Charges
- Unpaid fines referred for enforcement after 90 days.
- Additional fees and legal charges added.
- Failure to pay can result in vehicle seizure.
FAQ on Andorran Driving Licences
1. How much does it cost to get a licence in Andorra?
Getting a first time Andorran driving licence costs approximately €600-800. This includes mandatory lessons, theory and practical test fees, and cost of issuing the licence card. Renewal every 10 years costs around €200.
2. Can I drive in Andorra with my EU licence?
Yes, EU nationals can use their home country licence for up to 6 months while living in Andorra. After this, an Andorran licence must be obtained by passing local exams.
3. What documents do I need to apply for an Andorran driving licence?
You will need your passport, residence permit, passport photos, medical certificate, proof of address, and application form. Some documents may need to be translated or legalized before application.
4. Can I exchange my foreign licence for an Andorran one?
Andorra only allows licence exchange for EU, EEA or Swiss licence holders. Even then, you may need to pass Andorran theory or practical tests before getting the exchanged licence.
5. Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in Andorra?
Visitors with non-EU licences should get an IDP to rent and drive cars in Andorra. While not always mandatory, an IDP provides a translation and can prevent issues with local authorities.