Antigua and Barbuda Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Antigua and Barbuda Driving Licence: Obtaining a driving licence in Antigua and Barbuda allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview:

Antigua and Barbuda Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Types of Licences

There are different classes of driving licences issued:

  • Class A – Motorcycles
  • Class B – Motor vehicles up to 7,000 lbs
  • Class C – Vehicles over 7,000 lbs
  • Class D – Public transportation vehicles
  • Class E – Trailers and agricultural equipment

Eligibility and Minimum Age

To be eligible you must:

  • Be at least 16 years and 6 months old
  • Pass the theory and practical driving tests
  • Complete training at a certified driving school
  • Be medically fit to drive

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods:

  • Class A – 6 years
  • Class B, C, D – 5 years
  • Class E – 3 years

Licences must be renewed before expiration.

New Residents and Visitors

New residents can drive using foreign licences for up to 3 months. Visitors can drive for up to 6 months on valid foreign licences. An International Driving Permit is recommended. Antigua and Barbuda Driving Licence

Obtaining Your First Antigua and Barbuda Driving Licence

Here are the steps to obtaining your first Antiguan driving licence:

1. Enroll in a Driving School

  • Find and register with a certified driving school.
  • Complete the mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
  • Lessons range from 10-20 hours depending on class.

2. Book and Pass Theory Test

  • Take the theory test at the Licensing Authority when ready.
  • The test covers road signs, rules, regulations.
  • You must score at least 75% to pass.

3. Pass the Practical Driving Test

  • The practical test evaluates your vehicle handling skills.
  • You will be tested on manoeuvres relevant to the licence class.
  • Passing score for the test is 70%.

4. Apply for Your Licence

  • Visit Licensing Authority office upon passing both exams.
  • Submit completed application, fees, ID, photos.
  • Medical certificate and driving school certificate.
  • Your photo licence will be issued within 2 weeks.

Renewing Your Antiguan Driving Licence

To continue driving legally, you must renew before expiry:

  • Licences can be renewed up to 6 months before expiration.
  • Visit the Licensing Authority office.
  • Present your current licence and get new photo.
  • Pay renewal fee.
  • New licence card will be issued.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence

If your driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • Immediately report it to the police and obtain incident report.
  • Apply for replacement at the Licensing Authority.
  • Provide police report and old licence if available.
  • Pay replacement fee.
  • You will be issued a duplicate licence.

Changing Your Address on Your Licence

When you change residence address:

  • Notify Licensing Authority within 2 weeks.
  • Provide proof of new address.
  • Pay change of address fee.
  • Your driving licence will be updated with new address.

Getting an International Driving Permit

To drive in other countries, you may need an IDP:

  • Apply for IDP at the Licensing Authority.
  • Bring current licence, passport photos and photocopies.
  • Complete application and pay fee.
  • Carry both licence and IDP when driving overseas.

Traffic Rules and Regulations in Antigua and Barbuda

When driving, you must follow these main traffic laws:

General Rules

  • Drive on the left side of the road
  • Mandatory seat belt use
  • Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
  • No mobile phone use while driving

Speed Limits

  • 20 mph in residential areas
  • 30 mph in urban areas
  • 40 mph on main roads
  • 60 mph on highways

Documentation

  • Licence, insurance and registration must be carried in vehicle

Alcohol Limit

  • Max 0.08% blood alcohol content
  • Zero alcohol for bus drivers

Fines

  • Speeding tickets from $75 Eastern Caribbean Dollars
  • Driving unlicensed – fines up to $5000 EC

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Antigua and Barbuda

If you receive a traffic ticket, here is how to resolve it:

Pay the Fine

  • Fines can be paid at Licensing Authority or police stations.
  • Pay within 14 days to avoid late penalties.
  • Keep proof of payment.

Dispute the Ticket

  • To dispute, submit written plea to police within 14 days.
  • Provide any evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be waived if dispute is accepted.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence can be suspended for major offences.
  • Accumulating 12+ points in 12 months leads to suspension.
  • Attend traffic school to regain licence.

Failure to Pay

  • Unpaid fines referred to court after 28 days.
  • Additional fees added.
  • Can lead to driver’s licence suspension.

FAQ on Antiguan Driving Licences

1. How much does it cost to get a driving licence in Antigua and Barbuda?

Getting a new Antiguan driving licence costs around $200-300 EC. This covers the mandatory lessons, theory and road tests, and fees for licence issuance. Renewal every 3-6 years costs around $100 EC.

2. What age can you get a driving licence in Antigua and Barbuda?

The minimum age to obtain a driving licence in Antigua and Barbuda is 16 years and 6 months. You must be 18+ to drive public transportation or heavy vehicles.

3. Can I use my US driving licence in Antigua and Barbuda?

Yes, US visitors can drive on their valid US licence for up to 6 months. New residents can drive for 3 months before getting a local licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

4. Is driving school required to get a licence in Antigua and Barbuda?

Yes, completing classes at a certified driving school is mandatory before attempting the licence tests. The lessons prepare you for both theoretical and practical exams.

5. How do I renew an expired Antiguan driving licence?

To renew an expired licence, you must retake both the theory and practical driving tests. You may also have to redo mandatory lessons at driving school before attempting the exams again.