Armenia Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Armenia Driving Licence: Obtaining an Armenian driving licence allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview:

Types of Licences

There are different categories of driving licences issued in Armenia:

  • Category A1 – Motorcycles up to 125 cc
  • Category A – Motorcycles over 125 cc
  • Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg
  • Category C – Vehicles over 3,500 kg
  • Category D – Passenger transport vehicles
  • Category BE, CE, DE – Combined licences

Eligibility and Minimum Age

To be eligible you must:

  • Be at least 16 years old (Category A1)
  • Be at least 18 years old (Category A, B, BE)
  • Be at least 21 years old (Category C, CE)
  • Be at least 24 years old (Category D, DE)
  • Pass theory and practical driving tests

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods in Armenia:

  • Category A1, A – 6 years
  • Category B – 10 years
  • Category C, D – 5 years

Licences must be renewed before expiration to remain valid.

New Residents and Tourists

Tourists can drive using foreign licences for up to 6 months. New residents can drive for 3 months before getting an Armenian licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Getting Your First Armenia Driving Licence

Here is the process to obtain your initial Armenian driving licence:

1. Enroll in a Driving School

  • Complete mandatory classes at a licensed driving school.
  • Lessons cover theory, hazard perception and driving skills.
  • Minimum 30 hours training required.

2. Pass Theory Test

  • Take the computerized theory test at the Police Passport and Visa Department.
  • Covers traffic rules, regulations, road signs.
  • Pass score is at least 25 out of 30 questions correctly.

3. Pass the Practical Driving Test

  • The practical test assesses your driving abilities on the road.
  • An examiner will evaluate your vehicle control, safety awareness and skills.
  • You must pass both theory and practical tests.

4. Obtain Your Licence

  • Visit police to apply for licence issuance after passing exams.
  • Submit application form, ID, photos, medical certificate.
  • Pay licence fee based on category.
  • You will receive your photo licence within 10 days.

Renewing an Armenian Driving Licence

To continue driving legally, renew your licence before expiration:

  • Licences can be renewed up to 6 months before expiry.
  • Visit the Passport and Visa Department.
  • Undergo vision screening and get new photo.
  • Pay renewal fees.
  • Your updated licence will be issued.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence

If your Armenian driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • File a report with the police documenting loss/theft.
  • Apply for replacement at Passport and Visa Department.
  • 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 your permanent residence address:

  • Notify Police Passport and Visa Department within 30 days.
  • Provide proof of new address.
  • Pay change of address fee.
  • Your updated driving licence will be issued showing new address.

Getting an International Driving Permit

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

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

Traffic Rules and Regulations in Armenia

When driving in Armenia, you must follow these main traffic rules:

General Driving

  • Drive on the right side of the road
  • Mandatory seat belt use
  • Require child seats/restraints as needed
  • Yield to pedestrians in crossings

Speed Limits

  • 60 km/h on urban roads
  • 90 km/h on highways and inter-urban roads
  • 110 km/h on freeways

Documentation

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

Alcohol Limits

  • 0.05% maximum blood alcohol content
  • 0.00% alcohol limit for novice and professional drivers

Fines

  • Speeding fines from 5000 Drams
  • Driving unlicensed – fines up to 50000 Drams

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Armenia

If you commit a traffic offence, here is how to deal with traffic fines:

Pay the Fine

  • Fines can be paid at banks or police stations.
  • Pay within 30 days to avoid late penalties.
  • Keep receipt as proof of payment.

Dispute the Violation

  • To dispute, file written appeal with traffic police within 30 days.
  • Provide evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence will be suspended for serious offences.
  • Accumulating 8+ penalty points in a 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 added.
  • Can lead to vehicle impoundment.

FAQ on Armenian Driving Licences

1. How much does it cost to get an Armenian driving licence?

Getting a new Armenian licence costs around 30,000-40,000 Drams. This covers mandatory lessons, theory/road tests, and licence issuance fees. Renewal every 5-10 years costs around 5000 Drams.

2. What is the minimum age to get an Armenian driving licence?

The minimum age is 16 years for a motorcycle licence and 18 years for a regular Category B car licence. You must be 21+ for heavy vehicle licences and 24+ for passenger transport licences.

3. Can I exchange my foreign licence for an Armenian licence?

Armenia does not allow direct licence conversion for non-citizens. You have to pass all the Armenian licence tests even if you hold a valid foreign licence.

4. Can I drive in Armenia with just an International Driving Permit?

No, an IDP itself does not allow you to drive. You must carry your original home country licence along with the IDP to legally drive in Armenia.

5. How do I renew my Armenian driving licence if I am overseas?

You can authorize someone in Armenia to renew your licence by power of attorney. They will submit renewal application on your behalf along with required docs and fees.