Central African Republic Driving Licence : Having a valid driver’s license is required for operating any motor vehicle on public roads in the Central African Republic (CAR).
The licensing process involves meeting eligibility criteria, taking driving exams, renewing licenses on time and following traffic rules.
This guide covers everything you need to know about getting a new or replacement license, changing your address, taking tests, paying fines and driving safely in the CAR.
Obtaining a New Driving License in CAR
Here are the steps to getting a new driver’s license in the Central African Republic:
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for your first CAR driver’s license you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Complete an application form
- Provide required identity documents
- Pass theory and practical driving tests
- Be medically fit with no serious conditions
- Pay licensing fees
Required Documents
When applying, you need to submit:
- Completed license application form
- Passport photo
- Valid national ID card
- Birth certificate
- Proof of address/residency
- Medical certificate from approved doctor
Testing
You must pass a written theory test on road signs, rules and regulations by scoring at least 80%. Also a practical road test assessing driving skills.
Fees
Fees to obtain a new license are:
- Written theory test fee: 5000 XAF
- Road test fee: 10,000 XAF
- License issuance fee: 15,000 XAF
Issuance
If all requirements are met, the new license will be issued on the same day. It is valid for 5 years from date of issue.
Renewing a CAR Driving License
To renew an expiring CAR driver’s license:
- Licenses must be renewed every 5 years before expiration
- Obtain renewal application form from traffic department
- Complete form and submit new medical certificate
- Provide updated passport photos
- Pay renewal fee of 10,000 XAF
- No need to retake driving tests
- New license issued quickly after approval
Replacing a Lost/Stolen CAR License
If your CAR driving license is lost or stolen, you must:
- File a report with the police about missing license
- Obtain application for replacement license
- Submit police report, application, photos and medical certificate
- Pay replacement fee of 15,000 XAF
- Allow 7 days processing time
- Replacement license will have new number and validity period
Changing Your Address on CAR license
After moving residences within CAR:
- Notify traffic department within 15 days of address change
- Provide proof of new address
- Complete application form for address change
- Pay fee of 3000 XAF
- Updated license will be sent by mail in 5 working days
Taking the CAR Driving Tests
Here are some tips for passing the driver’s license exams:
Theory Test Tips:
- Study road signs, rules and regulations in the driving manual
- Practice mock theory tests before exam day
- Focus on safety procedures, right-of-way, sign meanings
- Answer questions calmly without guessing randomly
Road Test Tips:
- Book an appointment and take a practice session in the test vehicle
- Check that test vehicle is roadworthy before test day
- Obey all traffic laws during test – watch your speed
- Perform maneuvers like parking, 3-point turns safely
- Stay relaxed and focused if you make any minor mistakes
Paying Traffic Fines in CAR
If ticketed for a driving offense:
- Traffic police can collect fine payment on the spot
- Unpaid fines will incur penalties and license suspension
- Pay at police station or approved bank within 15 days
- Fines range from 5000 XAF for minor offenses up to 50,000 XAF
- Keep receipts as proof of payment
- You can contest a fine in court within 10 days
Driving Laws and Safety Tips in CAR
To safely navigate Central African Republic’s roads:
- Drive on the right side of road – overtake via left lane
- Obey speed limits – 60km/h in cities, 100km/h on highways
- Buckle up and wear motorcycle helmets. Mandatory for all.
- Do not drive under influence of alcohol or drugs
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks
- Park only in allowed zones and avoid illegal parking
- Carefully overtake slower vehicles like trucks and tractors
- Drive slowly during heavy rains or when visibility poor
- Carry driver’s license, car papers and insurance docs always
FAQs on Central African Republic Driving Licence
1. What is the minimum age to get a license in CAR?
The minimum age is 18 years to obtain a driver’s license in the Central African Republic.
2. How much does getting a CAR driver’s license cost?
You will need to pay around 30,000 XAF for testing fees, issuance and other admin costs. Renewal every 5 years costs 10,000 XAF.
3. Are CAR licenses valid in other African countries?
No, a CAR driving license is valid only within the country. You need to get a new local license if living elsewhere.
4. What documents do I need to change the address on my CAR license?
You need a completed application form, proof of new address, passport photos and a fee of 3000 XAF to change your address.
5. Can I drive in CAR with my international driving permit?
Yes, an IDP is valid for up to 1 year when accompanied by your native driver’s license. An official translation is recommended.
Conclusion
Obtaining a license by passing the theory and road exams is essential for legally driving in the Central African Republic. Renewing on time, updating details, paying fines promptly and following traffic rules will ensure you continue driving safely on CAR’s roads for years to come.