Angola Driving Licence: Obtaining an Angolan driving licence allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in Angola:
Types of Driving Licences
There are different categories of driving licences issued in Angola:
- Category A – Motorcycles
- Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg
- Category C – Vehicles over 3,500 kg
- Category D – Passenger transportation vehicles
- Category E – Combination vehicles like road trains
- Category F – Special vehicles like agricultural equipment
Eligibility and Minimum Ages
To qualify for an Angolan driving licence, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Pass theory and practical driving tests
- Complete 4-8 weeks of classes at a driving school
- Be medically fit to drive
Licence Validity
Licence validity periods in Angola:
- Category A – 5 years
- Category B – 10 years
- Category C, D – 5 years
- Category E, F – 3 years
Licences must be renewed before expiration to remain valid.
New Residents and Tourists
New residents can drive using foreign licences for 3 months. Tourists can drive for up to 30 days on a valid foreign licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Getting Your First Angola Driving Licence
Here is the process to obtain your first Angolan driving licence:
1. Enroll in a Driving School
- Find and register with a certified driving school.
- Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
- Lessons range from 20-40 hours depending on licence type.
2. Book and Pass Theory Test
- Upon completing classes, take the theory test at INATTER.
- The test covers road signs, rules, regulations.
- You must score at least 80% to pass.
3. Pass the Practical Driving Test
- The practical test assesses driving skills and manoeuvres.
- Make sure to use the vehicle category matching your licence type.
- You must pass both theory and practical tests to qualify for a licence.
4. Obtain Your Licence
- Upon passing exams, apply for licence issuance at INATTER.
- Submit application, passport, medical certificate, photos.
- Pay licence fee based on category.
- Your photo licence card will be issued within 30 days.
Renewing Your Angolan Driving Licence
To continue driving legally, you must renew your licence before it expires:
- Renewal can be done within 6 months of expiry.
- Visit the INATTER office with your current licence.
- Undergo vision screening and get new photo.
- Pay renewal fee and get updated licence card.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence
If your driving licence is lost or stolen:
- Immediately report it to the police and obtain a report.
- Apply for replacement at INATTER within 5 days.
- Provide police report and passport.
- Pay replacement fee.
- A duplicate licence will be issued.
Changing Your Address on Your Licence
When you change your residence address:
- Notify INATTER within 30 days of changing address.
- Provide proof of new address.
- Pay fee and get updated driving licence card.
Getting an International Driving Permit
To drive in other countries, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP):
- IDPs are issued by Angolan Automobile Club.
- Bring current licence, passport, photos and fill application.
- Pay fee to obtain your IDP document valid for 1 year.
Traffic Rules and Regulations in Angola
When driving in Angola, you must follow these main traffic rules:
General Driving
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Wear seat belts front and back
- Yield to pedestrians at crossings
- No mobile phone use while driving
Speed Limits
- 60 km/h in urban areas
- 80 km/h on open roads
- 120 km/h on highways
Documentation
- Carry your licence, vehicle papers, insurance at all times
Alcohol Limit
- Max 0.5 g/l blood alcohol content
- Zero alcohol for professional drivers
Fines
- Speeding fines from 1000 Kwanzas
- Driving unlicensed – fines up to 5000 Kwanzas
Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Angola
If you commit a traffic offence, here is the process to resolve fines:
Pay the Fine
- Fines can be paid at banks, post offices, and police stations.
- Pay within 15 days to avoid additional penalties.
- Keep proof of payment.
Dispute the Fine
- If you wish to dispute, submit written application to police within 15 days.
- Provide evidence supporting your dispute.
- Fine may be reduced or waived if dispute successful.
Licence Suspension
- Licence can be suspended for serious offences.
- Accumulating 12+ points in one year leads to suspension.
- Attend driving school to regain licence after suspension.
Failure to Pay
- Unresolved fines referred to court after 60 days.
- Additional fees and charges added.
- Can result in vehicle impoundment.
FAQ on Angolan Driving Licences
1. How much does it cost to get a driving licence in Angola?
Getting a new Angolan driving licence costs around 15,000-20,000 Kwanzas. This includes mandatory lessons, theory and road tests, and fees for licence issuance. Renewal every 5-10 years costs around 5000 Kwanzas.
2. What is the minimum age to get an Angolan driving licence?
The minimum age to apply for an Angolan driving licence is 18 years. Those aged 16-17 can get a learner’s permit but cannot drive alone until age 18.
3. Can I drive in Angola using my foreign licence?
New residents can use foreign licences for 90 days. Visitors can drive for 30 days on a valid foreign licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
4. Do I need to take driving lessons to get an Angolan licence?
Yes, completing 4-8 weeks of classes at a certified driving school is mandatory before taking the licence tests. The lessons prepare you for both theory and practical exams.
5. What documents do I need when applying for an Angolan driving licence?
You will need your passport, proof of legal residence, passport photos, medical certificate, and driving school certificate. All documents must be valid and translated if not in Portuguese.