Bangladesh Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Bangladesh Driving Licence: Obtaining a driving licence in Bangladesh allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Types of Licences

There are different classes of licences issued in Bangladesh:

  • Class A – Motorcycles and motorized cycles
  • Class B – Motor cars, jeeps and taxis
  • Class C – Heavy goods and passenger vehicles
  • Class D – Road construction and earth moving equipment
  • Class F – Invalid carriages

Eligibility and Minimum Age

To apply for a driving licence you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old (Class A and B)
  • Be at least 20 years old (Class C)
  • Be at least 25 years old (Class D)
  • Pass required theory and practical driving tests
  • Obtain a medical fitness certificate

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods in Bangladesh:

  • Class A and B – 10 years
  • Class C and D – 5 years
  • Class F – 3 years

Licences must be renewed before expiration.

New Residents and Tourists

Tourists can drive using foreign licences for up to 3 months. New residents can drive for 6 months before obtaining a Bangladeshi licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Getting Your First Bangladesh Driving Licence

Here are the steps to obtaining your initial driving licence in Bangladesh:

1. Enroll in a Driving School

  • Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
  • Covers traffic rules, regulations, vehicle handling skills.
  • Minimum 10-15 hours training required.

2. Pass the Written Test

  • Take the multiple choice written test on road signs, rules, laws.
  • Answer 45 out of 50 questions correctly to pass.

3. Pass the Driving Test

  • Take the practical test demonstrating vehicle operation skills.
  • An examiner will assess your control, judgement and safety.
  • Minimum pass score is 60 out of 100 points.

4. Obtain Your Licence

  • Submit test results and required documents to licence office.
  • Provide ID, photos, medical certificate, fees.
  • Upon approval, your photo licence will be issued.

Renewing a Bangladeshi Driving Licence

To continue driving legally, renew your licence before expiration:

  • Licences can be renewed up to 6 months before expiry.
  • Visit licence office with your current licence.
  • Undergo vision screening and get new photo.
  • Pay renewal fees.
  • Your updated licence will be provided.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence

If your Bangladeshi driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • File a police report regarding the loss/theft.
  • Apply for replacement at licence office within 30 days.
  • Provide police report and details of old licence.
  • Pay replacement fee.
  • You will be issued a duplicate licence.

Changing Your Address on Your Licence

When you change your permanent address:

  • Notify licence office within 30 days of address change.
  • Provide proof of new address.
  • Pay change of address fee.
  • Your driving licence will be modified with new address.

Getting an International Driving Permit

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

  • Apply for IDP at designated automobile associations.
  • 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 Bangladesh

When driving in Bangladesh, follow these main traffic laws:

General Driving

  • Drive on the left side of the road
  • Mandatory seat belt wearing
  • Ban on handheld mobile phone use
  • Yield to pedestrians in crossings

Speed Limits

  • 40 km/h in municipalities
  • 80 km/h on highways
  • 120 km/h on expressways

Documentation

  • Driving licence must be carried at all times

Alcohol Limit

  • Legal limit 0.05% blood alcohol content
  • Zero tolerance for professional drivers

Fines

  • Speeding fines from Tk 300
  • Driving unlicensed – fines up to Tk 3000

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Bangladesh

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

Pay the Fine

  • Fines can be paid at designated banks and police stations.
  • Pay within stipulated deadline to avoid penalties.
  • Obtain receipt as proof of payment.

Dispute the Fine

  • To contest, submit written plea to traffic police within deadline.
  • Provide evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be waived if dispute successful.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence may be suspended for serious offences.
  • Accumulating 12+ points also results in suspension.
  • Attend refresher classes to regain licence after suspension.

Failure to Pay

  • Unpaid fines referred for court enforcement.
  • Additional late fees and charges added.
  • Can result in driving licence being cancelled.

FAQ on Bangladeshi Driving Licences

1. How much does it cost to get a Bangladeshi driving licence?

Getting a new Bangladeshi driving licence costs around Tk. 1000-1500. This includes mandatory lessons, theory/practical tests and issuance of the licence card. Renewal every 5-10 years is around Tk. 500-700.

2. What is the minimum driving age in Bangladesh?

The minimum age to obtain a motorcycle or car licence in Bangladesh is 18 years. For commercial heavy vehicles and public transport licences you must be at least 20-25 years old.

3. Can I drive in Bangladesh with my Indian licence?

Yes, as an Indian national you can legally drive in Bangladesh using your valid Indian driving licence for up to 3 months. Expat residents need to obtain a Bangladeshi licence after 6 months.

4. How do I replace my lost Bangladeshi driving licence?

Report loss immediately to police and apply for replacement at the licence office within 30 days. Provide police report and old licence details. Pay fee to obtain duplicate licence.

5. Can I renew my Bangladeshi licence from overseas?

No, you cannot renew your Bangladeshi driving licence from overseas. You must be present in person at the licence office for vision screening and to collect the renewed physical licence card.