Gabon Driving Licence : Obtaining a driver’s license in Gabon allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads.
This guide covers how to get a new or renew an existing Gabonese driver’s license, change your address, take the driver exam, pay traffic fines, and understand Gabon driving laws.
Getting a New Gabon Driving Licence
To get your first driver’s license in Gabon, you must:
Meet Age Requirements
- Be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner’s permit.
- 18 years old for a full Gabonese driver’s license.
Provide Required Documents
- Completed license application form.
- Valid Gabonese national ID or passport.
- Proof of residence in Gabon.
- Original birth certificate.
- 2 passport size photos.
- Applicable license fees.
Pass Necessary Exams
- Rules of the road knowledge test.
- Vision screening for minimum acuity.
- Practical on-road driving test.
Receive Your License
- Once you pass all exams, you’ll be issued a photo driver’s license.
- Allows legal operation of vehicles on Gabon roads.
- Licenses must be renewed every 5 years.
Renewing a Gabonese Driver’s License
To renew an expiring Gabonese driver’s license:
- Apply up to 6 months before your license expires.
- Complete and submit renewal application.
- Provide updated ID documents if anything changed.
- Pass vision screening again.
- Pay license renewal fees.
- New photo may be required.
Failure to renew on time can result in fines and need to retake driver exams.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Gabonese License
If your Gabonese driver’s license is lost or stolen:
- Immediately report it to the police and get an incident report.
- Apply for replacement at licensing office.
- Show police report and confirmation of identity.
- Pay fees for replacement license.
- Have new photo and signature captured.
Prompt reporting gives you the best chance of avoiding re-testing.
Changing Your Address on a Gabonese Driver’s License
After moving to a new permanent address in Gabon, you must update your driver’s license:
- Visit your local licensing office in person.
- Fill out address change application form.
- Provide proof of your new residential address.
- Pay applicable fees for updated license.
- Have license issued showing new address.
Some agencies allow address changes by mail with proper documentation.
Taking the Driver Exam in Gabon
To qualify for a new Gabonese driver’s license, you must pass:
Knowledge Test
- Written rules of the road exam.
- Oral questioning on road signs and safety.
- Vision screening for minimum acuity.
Practical Driving Test
- On-road evaluation of driving skills.
- Assesses ability to control vehicle and obey laws.
- Points deducted for errors.
Practice tests can help prepare for the exams. Many need multiple attempts to pass.
Paying Traffic Fines in Gabon
If you receive a traffic citation in Gabon, you can pay the fines:
- In person at the nearest police station.
- By mail sending a cheque or money order.
- At some courts via cash, card, or bank transfer.
- Via Flooz mobile money wallet if option available.
Fines have a due date before additional late penalties apply.
Overview of Traffic Laws in Gabon
When driving in Gabon, you must obey these essential rules:
- Drive on the right side of the road.
- Obey posted speed limits (60km/hr urban, 110km/hr highways).
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
- Mandatory seat belt use by driver and passengers.
- Strict drunk driving laws – maximum 0.08% BAC.
- Use headlights at all times when driving.
- Use indicators when turning or changing lanes.
- Obey all police officers and traffic signs/signals.
Violating Gabon’s traffic laws can lead to fines, arrest, and licence suspension. Always drive safely and legally.
FAQs on Gabon Driving Licence
What is the minimum age to get a driver’s license in Gabon?
The minimum age is 16 years for a learner’s permit and 18 years for a full driver’s license in Gabon.
How long are Gabonese driver’s licenses valid for?
Gabonese driver’s licenses are valid for 5 years from the date of issue. They must be renewed before expiration to remain valid.
Can I drive in Cameroon with a Gabonese driver’s license?
Unfortunately Gabonese licenses are not valid for driving across the border in Cameroon. You would need a Cameroonian license.
What documents do I need to renew my Gabonese driver’s license?
You’ll need current ID, updated proofs of residence, to pass vision screening again, new photos if required, and to pay the license renewal fees.
Is there an online system for paying traffic fines in Gabon?
There is no nationwide online system for paying fines yet. Fines must be paid in-person, by mail, or via mobile money like Flooz if available.