Azerbaijan Driving Licence: Obtaining an Azerbaijani 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 Azerbaijan:
- 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 BE, CE, DE – Combined vehicle licences
Eligibility and Minimum Age
To qualify for an Azerbaijani driving licence you must:
- Be at least 16 years old (Category A)
- Be at least 18 years old (Category 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 Azerbaijan:
- Category A, B – 10 years
- Category C, D – 5 years
- Combined categories – 5 years
Licences must be renewed before they expire.
New Residents and Tourists
Tourists can drive using foreign licences for up to 90 days. New residents can drive for 30 days on foreign licences before getting an Azerbaijani licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Getting Your First Azerbaijan Driving Licence
Here are the steps to obtaining your initial driving licence in Azerbaijan:
1. Enroll in a Driving School
- Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
- Training covers traffic rules, hazard perception, skills.
- Minimum 20 hours required depending on licence type.
2. Pass the Theory Test
- Take the computer-based theory test at the testing center.
- Covers road signs, laws, traffic regulations.
- Answer 28 out of 30 questions correctly to pass.
3. Pass the Practical Driving Test
- The practical test assesses your driving skills on the road.
- An examiner will evaluate your control, maneuvering and safety.
- You must pass both theory and practical tests.
4. Obtain Your Licence Card
- Visit the licence issuing authority with your passed test results.
- Submit completed application, ID, photos, medical certificate.
- Pay required licence issuance fee.
- Your new photo licence will be issued.
Renewing an Azerbaijani Driving Licence
To continue driving legally, you must renew your licence before expiration:
- Licences can be renewed up to 1 month before expiry.
- Visit licensing authority with your current licence.
- Undergo vision screening and get new photo.
- Pay renewal fees.
- Your updated licence will be issued.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence
If your Azerbaijani driving licence is lost or stolen:
- File a police report documenting the loss/theft.
- Apply for replacement at the licence authority within 2 weeks.
- Provide police report and old licence details.
- Pay replacement fee.
- You will be issued a duplicate licence.
Changing Your Address on Your Licence
When you change your permanent residence address:
- Notify licence authority within 30 days of address change.
- Provide proof of new address.
- Pay change of address fee.
- Your driving licence will be modified 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 local automobile association.
- Bring current licence, passport photos and photocopies.
- Submit completed application and fee.
- Carry both your licence and IDP when driving overseas.
Traffic Rules and Regulations in Azerbaijan
When driving in Azerbaijan, follow these main traffic laws:
General Driving
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Mandatory seat belt wearing
- Require proper use of child restraints
- Obey posted speed limits
Speed Limits
- 60 km/h in urban areas
- 90 km/h on open roads
- 110 km/h on highways
Alcohol Limits
- Maximum 0.05% blood alcohol content
- Zero tolerance for novice and professional drivers
Documentation
- Licence and vehicle registration must be carried
Fines
- Speeding fines from ₼50 to ₼200
- Driving unlicensed – ₼200 fine
Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Azerbaijan
If you commit a traffic offence, here is how to deal with resulting fines:
Pay the Fine
- Fines can be paid at banks, post offices, and online.
- Pay within 20 days to avoid late penalties.
- Keep receipt as proof of payment.
Dispute the Fine
- To contest, file written challenge within 20 days.
- Submit evidence supporting your dispute.
- Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.
Licence Suspension
- Licence may be suspended for serious offences.
- 12+ penalty points in a year also leads to suspension.
- Attend driving school to reduce points.
Failure to Pay
- Unpaid fines referred for court enforcement after 60 days.
- Additional fees added.
- Can result in driving privileges being revoked.
FAQ on Azerbaijani Driving Licences
1. How much does it cost to get an Azerbaijani driving licence?
Getting a new Azerbaijani driving licence costs around ₼100-150. This includes mandatory lessons, theory/practical tests and issuance of the licence card. Renewal every 5-10 years is ₼20-30.
2. What is the minimum driving age in Azerbaijan?
The minimum age to hold a motorcycle licence is 16 years. For a regular car licence you must be at least 18 years old. The minimum age is 21 years for heavy vehicles and 24 years for passenger transport vehicles.
3. Can I drive in Azerbaijan with my US licence?
Yes, US license holders can legally drive for up to 90 days in Azerbaijan as a tourist. New residents can drive for 30 days before getting a local licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
4. How do I replace my lost Azerbaijani driving licence?
Report loss to police immediately and apply for replacement at the licence issuing authority. Provide the police report and pay the replacement fee to get a duplicate licence issued.
5. Can I renew my Azerbaijani driving licence from overseas?
No, you cannot renew your Azerbaijani driving licence from overseas. You must be present in-person for vision screening and to obtain the updated licence card.