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:
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.