Brunei Driving Licence or Driver Permit

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

Types of Licences

There are different classes of driving licences issued in Brunei:

  • Class 1 – Motorcycles
  • Class 2 – Cars and light vehicles
  • Class 3 – Heavy goods vehicles and buses
  • Class 4 – Taxis
  • Class 5 – Construction equipment

Eligibility and Minimum Age

To qualify for a Brunei driving licence you must:

  • Be at least 16 years and 6 months old (Class 1 & 2)
  • Be at least 20 years old (Class 3 & 4)
  • Be at least 21 years old (Class 5)
  • Pass the theory and practical driving tests
  • Complete a driving course

Licence Validity

Licence validity periods in Brunei:

  • Class 1 & 2 – 10 years
  • Class 3 & 4 – 5 years
  • Class 5 – 3 years

Licences must be renewed before they expire.

New Residents and Tourists

Visitors can drive using foreign licences for 3 months in Brunei. New residents can drive for 6 months with a valid licence from their home country before getting a local one. An International Driving Permit is recommended.

Getting Your First Brunei Driving Licence

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

1. Enroll in Driving School

  • Complete theory lessons on road rules, signs and safety.
  • Take practical lessons with instructor.
  • Get a learner’s permit after completing mandatory classes.

2. Pass Theory Test

  • Take computer-based test on traffic laws and regulations.
  • Score at least 80% to pass the theory test.

3. Pass Practical Driving Test

  • Take the practical test assessing driving skills and safety.
  • An examiner will evaluate you on vehicle control, judgement, maneuvering.
  • Achieve a minimum score of 80% to pass.

4. Obtain Your Licence

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

Renewing a Brunei 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 Brunei driving licence is lost or stolen:

  • File a police report regarding the loss/theft.
  • Apply for replacement at land transport department.
  • 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 land transport department within 2 weeks 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 land transport department.
  • 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 Brunei

When driving in Brunei, follow these main traffic laws:

General Driving

  • Drive on the left side of the road
  • Mandatory seat belt wearing
  • Require child restraints as appropriate
  • Obey speed limits and traffic signs

Speed Limits

  • 50 km/h in urban areas
  • 80 km/h on highways and rural roads
  • 100 km/h on motorways

Documentation

  • Driving licence must be carried at all times

Alcohol Limit

  • 0.08% maximum blood alcohol content
  • Zero tolerance for novice drivers

Fines

  • Speeding fines up to BND150
  • Driving unlicensed – fines up to BND500

Resolving Traffic Violations and Fines in Brunei

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

Pay the Fine

  • Traffic fines can be paid at police stations and post offices.
  • Pay promptly to avoid additional penalties.
  • Obtain receipt as proof of payment.

Dispute the Fine

  • To contest, file plea at traffic court within 14 days.
  • Submit evidence supporting your dispute.
  • Fine may be reduced or waived if dispute upheld.

Licence Suspension

  • Licence may be suspended for serious offences.
  • 12+ demerit points in 24 months can also lead to suspension.

Failure to Pay

  • Unpaid fines referred for enforcement after 28 days.
  • Additional late fees added.
  • Can result in driving licence being cancelled.

FAQ on Brunei Driving Licences

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

Getting a new Brunei driving licence costs around BND60-100. This includes mandatory lessons, theory and practical tests, and licence fees. Renewal every 3-10 years is approximately BND30-50.

2. What is the minimum driving age in Brunei?

The minimum age to hold a motorcycle or car licence in Brunei is 16 years and 6 months. For heavy vehicles and public transport vehicles, you must be at least 20-21 years old.

3. Can I drive in Brunei with my Malaysian licence?

Yes, as a Malaysian licence holder you can legally drive in Brunei using your current Malaysian licence for up to 3 months as a visitor. New residents need to obtain a local licence after 6 months.

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

Report loss immediately to the police and apply for replacement at the land transport department. Provide the police report and details of your old licence. Pay the fee to be issued a duplicate licence.

5. Can I renew my Brunei licence from overseas?

No, Brunei driving licences cannot be renewed from overseas. You must be present in-person at the land transport department for vision screening and to collect the renewed physical card.