Cabo Verde Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Cabo Verde Driving Licence : Obtaining a driver’s license in Cabo Verde allows you to legally operate a motor vehicle on public roads. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to get a new driving license, renew or replace an expired one, change your address, take the driver’s exam, pay traffic fines and follow road rules in Cabo Verde.

Getting a New Driving License in Cabo Verde

To obtain your first Cabo Verde driving license, you must:

Be At Least 18 Years Old

The legal age to apply for a driver’s license in Cabo Verde is 18 years. If you are under 18, you cannot drive alone and must be accompanied by an adult with a valid license.

Pass the Theory Test

You must pass a computerized multiple-choice theory test on road signs, rules, regulations and safe driving practices. The test is available in Portuguese and English. You can take practice tests online to prepare.

Enroll in a Driving School

You must complete a minimum of 28 hours of practical driving lessons with an accredited driving school. The lessons cover vehicle controls, maneuvering, parking, driving on highways and more.

Pass the Practical Road Test

You must pass a practical road test with a driving examiner from the licensing authority. You will be tested on various driving skills like maneuvering, parking, highway merging etc.

Provide Required Documents

When applying, you need to submit:

• Application form
• Valid passport
• Residency permit if foreigner
• Medical certificate
• Proof of completion of driving lessons
• 2 Passport photos
• Pay license fee

Get Your Picture Taken

You will get your photo taken at the driver’s license office for printing on your license card.

Once approved, you will be issued a plastic card license valid for 5 years.

Renewing a Cabo Verde Driver’s License

Driving licenses in Cabo Verde must be renewed every 5 years. To renew your license:

• Your old license must be expired within the last 6 months
• Submit renewal application with updated documents
• Pay renewal fee
• Get new photo taken
• Eyesight test may be required for older drivers

If your license has been expired for over 6 months, you may have to retake the theory and road tests. It is important to renew on time to avoid this.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Cabo Verde License

If your Cabo Verde driver’s license is lost, stolen or damaged, you must replace it within 30 days. Follow these steps:

• File a police report about the lost/stolen license
• Get duplicate copies of missing documents like medical certificate
• Submit license replacement application with documents and fee
• Pass eye test and get new photo taken

There is a fee for getting a replacement license. You will be issued a new license card with a new number.

Changing Your Address on Cabo Verde Driving License

If you change your place of residence in Cabo Verde, you must update your address on your license within 30 days.

To change the address on your license:

• Provide proof of new residence like utility bill
• Fill out address change form
• Pay small admin fee
• Get new license card showing updated address

This prevents issues with driving records, citations and penalties being sent to your old address.

Taking the Cabo Verde Driver’s License Exam

To get your first Cabo Verde license, you must pass a theory exam and road test. Here are some tips for passing:

Theory Test Tips:

• Study the driver’s manual and road signs
• Take practice theory tests to prepare
• The exam has 30 multiple choice questions
• You need 75% correct answers to pass
• Exam available in Portuguese, English, German, Spanish
• Get enough rest before your test

Road Test Tips:

• Take driving lessons to practice skills
• Schedule the test for when you feel fully prepared
• Keep calm and focused during the test
• Follow instructions from the examiner
• Perform maneuvers and skills as practiced
• Always drive safely and responsibly

With practice and preparation, you can pass the exams confidently.

Paying Traffic Fines in Cabo Verde

As a driver in Cabo Verde, you must follow all road rules and traffic regulations. If you violate any traffic laws, you may receive a citation with a fine that must be paid. Here is the process:

• Traffic fines are issued by police officers
• Fine amount depends on offense
• You will receive ticket at time of violation
• Ticket shows offense, fine amount and due date
• Fines can be paid at authorized banks
• Bring ticket and pay full fine amount
• Keep receipt as proof of payment
• Failure to pay could result in license suspension

Pay attention to road signs, speed limits, signals, and laws to avoid getting traffic tickets. Always carry your driving license, vehicle registration, and insurance when driving.

Important Driving Rules in Cabo Verde

Driving safely in Cabo Verde means following these essential rules:

• Drive on the right side of the road
• Obey speed limits (120km/h highways, 50km/h urban areas)
• Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks
• Stop fully at red lights and stop signs
• Use signals when turning or switching lanes
• Wear seat belts and do not use cell phones while driving
• Do not drink and drive – BAC limit is 0.05%
• Keep headlights on day and night
• Carry license, registration and insurance when driving
• Children under 10 must use car seats

By following the local driving laws and driving defensively, you can stay safe on Cabo Verde roads.

Frequently Asked Questions on Cabo Verde Driver’s Licenses