Bolivia Driving Licence : Obtaining a driving licence in Bolivia allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview of driving licences in Bolivia:
Types of Licences
There are different categories of driving licences issued in Bolivia:
- Category A – Motorcycles
- Category B – Motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg
- Category C – Trucks and vehicles over 3,500 kg
- Category D – Public transportation vehicles
- Category E – Trailers and articulated vehicles
Eligibility and Minimum Age
To qualify for a Bolivian driving licence you must:
- Be at least 16 years old (Category A)
- Be at least 18 years old (Category B)
- Be at least 21 years old (Category C, D, E)
- Pass required theory and practical driving tests
- Get a medical certificate of aptitude
Licence Validity
Licence validity periods in Bolivia:
- Category A, B – 5 years
- Category C, D, E – 2 years
Licences must be renewed before they expire.
New Residents and Tourists
Tourists can drive using foreign licences for up to 3 months in Bolivia. New residents can drive for 90 days with a valid licence from their home country before getting a local one. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Getting Your First Bolivia Driving Licence
Here are the steps to obtaining your initial driving licence in Bolivia:
1. Enroll in a Driving School
- Complete mandatory theory and practical driving lessons.
- Training covers traffic laws, defensive skills, vehicle handling.
- Get an instruction permit after completing classes.
2. Pass the Theory Test
- Take the multiple choice theory test on road signs, rules, regulations.
- Answer 28 out of 30 questions correctly to pass.
3. Pass the Practical Driving Test
- Take the practical test assessing driving skills and safety.
- An examiner will evaluate control, judgement and maneuvering ability.
- Achieve a minimum score of 70% to pass.
4. Obtain Your Licence Card
- Visit transit authority with passed test certificates.
- Submit application, medical certificate, ID, photos.
- Pay licence fee based on category.
- Your plastic card licence will be issued.
Renewing a Bolivian Driving Licence
To continue driving legally, you must renew your licence before expiration:
- Licences can be renewed up to 90 days before expiry.
- Present current licence and get new photo taken.
- Pay renewal fees.
- Updated licence card will be provided.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence
If your Bolivian driving licence is lost or stolen:
- File a report with the police documenting loss/theft.
- Apply for replacement at transit authority within 15 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 residence in Bolivia:
- Notify transit authority within 15 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 International Driving Permit (IDP):
- Apply for IDP at the Touring y Automóvil Club Boliviano.
- 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 Bolivia
When driving in Bolivia, follow these main traffic laws:
General Driving
- Drive on the right side of the road
- Mandatory seat belt wearing
- Require child seats/restraints as appropriate
- Obey speed limits and traffic signals
Speed Limits
- 40-60 km/h in urban areas
- 100 km/h on highways
- 120 km/h on motorways
Documentation
- Licence must be carried when driving
Alcohol Limit
- 0.05% maximum blood alcohol content
- 0.00% for professional drivers
Fines
- Speeding fines from 100 Bolivianos
- Driving unlicensed – fines up to 500 Bolivianos
Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Bolivia
If you commit a traffic offence in Bolivia, here is how to deal with resulting fines:
Pay the Fine
- Fines can be paid at banks, post offices, or transit police stations.
- Pay within 10 days to avoid late penalties.
- Keep receipt as proof of payment.
Dispute the Fine
- To contest, file written challenge within 10 days.
- Submit evidence supporting your dispute.
- Fine may be waived if dispute upheld.
Licence Suspension
- Licence may be suspended for serious offences.
- Accumulating 20+ points in 12 months leads to suspension.
- Attend traffic school to reduce points.
Failure to Pay
- Unresolved fines referred for court enforcement.
- Additional late fees and charges added.
- Can result in driving privileges being revoked.
FAQ on Bolivia Driving Licence
1. How much does it cost to get a Bolivian driving licence?
Getting a new Bolivian driving licence costs around 500-700 Bolivianos. This includes mandatory lessons, theory/practical tests and issuance of the licence card. Renewal every 2-5 years is about 100-200 Bolivianos.
2. What is the minimum driving age in Bolivia?
The minimum age is 16 years to obtain a motorcycle licence and 18 years to get a regular car licence in Bolivia. For commercial and heavy vehicle licences you must be at least 21 years old.
3. Can I drive in Bolivia with just my International Driving Permit?
No, an IDP itself does not allow you to drive in Bolivia. You must also carry your valid foreign driver’s licence. The IDP just provides translation and confirmation of your driving privileges.
4. How do I replace my lost Bolivian driving licence?
Report the loss immediately to police and apply for a replacement at the transit authority within 15 days. Provide the police report and details of your old licence. Pay the fee to obtain a duplicate licence card.
5. Can I renew my Bolivian licence from overseas?
No, you cannot renew a Bolivian driving licence from overseas. You must be present in-person at the transit authority to undergo medical screening and collect the renewed physical licence card.