Belize Driving Licence or Driver Permit

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

Belize Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Types of Licences

There are different classes of driving licences issued in Belize:

  • Class A – Motorcycles and motor scooters
  • Class B – Private motor vehicles up to 12,000 lbs
  • Class C – Vehicles over 12,000 lbs
  • Class D – Public service and commercial vehicles
  • Class F – Tractors and farm equipment

Eligibility and Minimum Age

To qualify for a Belize driving licence you must:

  • Be at least 16 years old (Class A and B)
  • Be at least 18 years old (Class C)
  • Be at least 21 years old (Class D)
  • Pass required theory and practical driving tests
  • Complete mandatory lessons at driving school

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods in Belize:

  • Class A and B – 5 years
  • Class C and D – 3 years
  • Class F – 1 year

Licences must be renewed before they expire.

New Residents and Tourists

Visitors can drive using foreign licences for up to 90 days in Belize. New residents can drive for 30 days with a valid foreign licence before obtaining a local one. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Getting Your Belize Driving Licence

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

1. Enroll in a Certified Driving School

  • Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
  • Instruction covers traffic laws, defensive driving, skills.
  • Get learner’s permit after completing classes.

2. Pass the Written Theory Test

  • Take the multiple choice written test on road rules, signs, laws.
  • Answer 28 out of 30 questions correctly to pass.

3. Pass the Practical Road Test

  • Take the practical test assessing your driving skills.
  • An examiner will evaluate control, judgement, maneuvering.
  • Minimum pass score is 70%.

4. Obtain Your Licence

  • Visit transport office with passed test certificates.
  • Submit application form, medical certificate, ID, fees.
  • Upon approval, your photo licence will be issued.

Renewing a Belize Driving Licence

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

  • Licences can be renewed up to 6 months before expiry.
  • Present current licence and get new photo taken.
  • Undergo vision screening and pay renewal fees.
  • Your updated licence card will be provided.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence

If your Belize driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • File a police report regarding the loss/theft.
  • Apply for replacement at transport office within 14 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 transport office within 14 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 the Belize Tourism Board.
  • 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 Belize

When driving in Belize, follow these main traffic laws:

General Driving

  • Drive on the right side of the road
  • Mandatory seat belt wearing
  • Require child restraints as appropriate
  • Obey speed limits

Speed Limits

  • 20 mph in urban areas
  • 55 mph on highways
  • 70 mph on major highways

Fines

  • Speeding tickets from $25 to $500 Belize Dollars
  • Driving unlicensed – fines up to $1000 BD

Documentation

  • Licence must be carried at all times when driving

Alcohol Limit

  • 0.08% maximum blood alcohol content
  • 0.00% BAC for commercial drivers

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Belize

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

Pay the Fine

  • Fines can be paid at police stations, banks, or online.
  • Pay within 28 days to avoid late penalties.
  • Keep receipt as proof of payment.

Dispute the Fine

  • To contest, submit written plea within 28 days.
  • Provide evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence may be suspended for major offences.
  • 12+ penalty points in a year leads to suspension.
  • Attend traffic school and pay fee to regain licence.

Failure to Pay

  • Unpaid fines referred for court enforcement after 42 days.
  • Additional late fees added.
  • Can result in driving privileges being revoked.

FAQ on Belize Driving Licences

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

Getting a new Belize driving licence costs around $100-150 BZD. This covers mandatory lessons, theory and practical tests, and fees for licence issuance. Renewal every 3-5 years costs around $50 BZD.

2. What is the minimum driving age in Belize?

The minimum age to obtain a motorcycle or car licence in Belize is 16 years. You must be at least 18 years old to get a licence for heavy vehicles and 21 years old for public transportation vehicles.

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

Yes, as a UK licence holder you can legally drive in Belize using your current licence for up to 90 days. New residents need to get a Belize licence after 30 days of taking up residence.

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

Report the loss immediately to police and apply for replacement at the transport office within 14 days. Provide the police report and details of your old licence. Pay the fee to obtain a duplicate licence.

5. Can I renew my Belize licence from overseas?

No, Belize driving licences cannot be renewed from overseas. You must be present in-person at the transport office to undergo vision screening and collect the renewed physical licence card.