Guatemala Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Guatemala Driving Licence : Obtaining a driver’s license in Guatemala allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads.

This guide covers how to get a new or renew an existing Guatemalan driver’s license, change your address, take the driver exam, pay traffic fines, and understand Guatemala driving laws.

Getting a New Guatemala Driving Licence

To get your first driver’s license in Guatemala, you must:

Meet Age Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old to apply for a full Guatemalan driver’s license.
• Ages 15-17 can obtain a learner’s permit.

Provide Required Documents

• Completed license application form.
• Valid Guatemalan ID card or passport.
• Proof of residence in Guatemala.
• Original birth certificate.
• Health certificate.
• Applicable license fees.

Pass Necessary Exams

• Computer-based rules of the road exam.
• 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 Guatemalan roads.
• Licenses must be renewed every 5 years.

Renewing a Guatemalan Driver’s License

To renew an expiring Guatemalan driver’s license:

• Apply up to 6 months before your license expires.
• Complete and submit renewal application.
• Provide updated ID and health documents if 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 Guatemalan License

If your Guatemalan 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 Guatemalan Driver’s License

After moving to a new permanent address in Guatemala, you must update your driver’s license:

• Visit your local license 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 Guatemala

To qualify for a new Guatemalan driver’s license, you must pass:

Knowledge Test

• Computer-based exam on road signs, laws, safety.
• Vision screening for minimum acuity.

Practical Driving Test

• On-road evaluation of driving skills by examiner.
• Assesses ability to safely control vehicle.

Practice knowledge tests can help prepare for the exams. Most need multiple attempts to pass.

Paying Traffic Fines in Guatemala

If you receive a citation for violating Guatemala’s traffic laws, you can pay the fines:

• In person at the court or police station listed on the ticket.
• By mail sending a cheque or money order.
• Online using the traffic system website if available.
• Over the phone by calling the court if allowed.

Fines must be paid by the deadline or additional late fees will apply. Unpaid fines can lead to license suspension.

Overview of Traffic Laws in Guatemala

When driving in Guatemala, you must obey these essential rules:

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Obey posted speed limits (60km/hr urban, 100km/hr highways).
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Mandatory seat belt use by driver and passengers.
• Strict drunk driving laws – maximum 0.08% BAC.
• No use of handheld cell phones while driving.
• Use turn signals when changing direction.
• Obey all traffic signs, signals, and officers directing traffic.

Violating Guatemala’s traffic laws can lead to fines, arrest, and licence suspension. Always drive safely and legally.

FAQs on Guatemala Driving Licence