Belarus Driving Licence or Driver Permit

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

Belarus Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Types of Licences

There are different categories of driving licences issued in Belarus:

  • 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 a Belarusian driving licence you must:

  • Be at least 16 years old (Category A)
  • Be at least 18 years old (Category B, BE)
  • Be at least 20 years old (Category C, CE)
  • Be at least 24 years old (Category D, DE)
  • Pass theory and practical driving exams

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods in Belarus:

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

Licences must be renewed before expiration.

New Residents and Tourists

Tourists can drive using foreign licences for up to 1 year. New residents can drive for 3 months on foreign licences before obtaining a Belarusian licence. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Getting Your First Belarus Driving Licence

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

1. Enroll in a Driving School

  • Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
  • Training covers traffic rules, hazard perception, skills.
  • Receive learner’s permit after completing classes.

2. Pass Theory Test

  • Take the computer-based theory test on road rules, signs, laws.
  • Answer 28 out of 30 questions correctly to pass.

3. Pass the Practical Driving Test

  • Take the practical test assessing your driving skills.
  • An examiner will evaluate you on vehicle control, safety, judgement.
  • Minimum pass score is 24 out of 25 points.

4. Obtain Your Licence

  • Visit traffic police with passed test certificates.
  • Submit application, medical certificate, ID, photos.
  • Pay required licence issuance fee.
  • Your photo driving licence will be provided.

Renewing a Belarusian Driving Licence

To continue driving legally, you must renew your licence before expiration:

  • Licences can be renewed up to 1 month before expiry.
  • Present current licence and undergo vision screening.
  • Get new photo taken and pay renewal fees.
  • Your updated licence card will be issued.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence

If your Belarusian driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • File a report with the police documenting loss/theft.
  • Apply for replacement at traffic police within 5 days.
  • 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:

  • Notify traffic police within 10 days of address change.
  • 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 National Automobile Association.
  • 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 Belarus

When driving in Belarus, 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 speed limits and traffic signs

Speed Limits

  • 60 km/h in urban areas
  • 90 km/h on open roads
  • 110 km/h on highways

Fines

  • Speeding fines from 4 base amounts
  • Driving unlicensed – fines up to 30 base amounts

Documentation

  • Driving licence, vehicle docs must be carried

Alcohol Limits

  • 0.3 g/l maximum blood alcohol content
  • 0.0 g/l for novice and professional drivers

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Belarus

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, online.
  • Pay within 30 days to avoid late penalties.
  • Keep receipt as proof of payment.

Dispute the Fine

  • To contest, file written challenge within 30 days.
  • Submit evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence suspended for serious offences.
  • 12+ penalty points in year results in suspension.
  • Attend driving courses to reduce points.

Failure to Pay

  • Unpaid fines referred for court enforcement.
  • Additional late fees and charges added.
  • Can lead to driving licence cancellation.

FAQ on Belarus Driving Licence

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

Getting a new Belarusian driving licence costs around 100-200 BYN. This includes mandatory lessons, theory/practical tests and issuance of the licence card. Renewal every 5-10 years is around 30-50 BYN.

2. What is the minimum driving age in Belarus?

The minimum age is 16 years for a motorcycle licence, 18 years for a car licence, 20 years for truck licences, and 24 years for passenger transport and trailer combination licences.

3. Can I drive in Belarus with my UK licence?

Yes, UK licence holders can legally drive using their current licence for up to 1 year as a tourist in Belarus. Residents need to obtain a Belarusian licence after 3 months. An IDP is recommended.

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

Report the loss immediately to police and apply for replacement at traffic police within 5 days. Provide the police report and details of your old licence. Pay the fee to obtain a duplicate licence.

5. Can I renew my Belarusian licence from overseas?

No, you cannot renew your Belarusian driving licence from overseas. You must be present in-person in Belarus to undergo medical screening and to collect the updated physical licence card.