Guinea-Bissau Driving Licence : Getting a driving licence is mandatory for driving any motor vehicle in Guinea-Bissau.
A driving licence proves you are qualified and know the traffic rules and safety protocols for operating a vehicle on public roads. This comprehensive guide covers everything about applying for and holding a valid driving licence in Guinea-Bissau.
How to Obtain a New Guinea-Bissau Driving Licence
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to apply for a new driving licence in Guinea-Bissau, you must:
- Be minimum 18 years old for a regular car licence
- Pass the theory and practical driving tests
- Provide documents like proof of identity, age, residence
- Be medically fit with no serious conditions
Steps to Get a New Licence
Follow these key steps to obtain a new driving licence in Guinea-Bissau:
- Apply for learner’s permit: Pass the theory test to get a learner’s permit to practice driving.
- Take driving lessons: Enroll with a driving school for training on vehicle operation and road safety.
- Book and take road test: Appear for the practical road test with your own vehicle at the stipulated center.
- Submit documents: Provide documents like passport, ID copies, photos, medical certificate.
- Pay issuance fee: Fees range from CFA 13,000-16,000 for new licence issuance.
- Get licence printed: Your licence will be printed with details and photo and issued to you on the spot.
Documents Required
Following documents are required for a new driving licence application:
- Application form
- ID proof like passport
- Age proof document
- Residence proof
- Driving school certificate
- 3-4 passport size photos
- Medical certificate confirming fitness
How to Renew a Driving Licence in Guinea-Bissau
Driving licences must be renewed every 6 years in Guinea-Bissau. To renew your licence:
- Licence renewal can be done within 1 year of expiry.
- Visit the licence office and submit renewal application form.
- Provide expired licence original.
- Undergo an eye test at the office.
- Pay licence renewal fees around CFA 8,000.
- Get new licence card on the spot with updated validity.
Renewing on time preserves your driving eligibility. Do not drive with an expired licence as it is illegal.
How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Driving Licence
In case of licence loss or damage, follow this procedure:
- Visit the driving licence office and inform them about loss/damage.
- File an application for a replacement licence.
- If licence was lost, furnish the police complaint/FIR copy.
- Provide current passport size photos.
- Submit copy of ID proof.
- Pay replacement fee of CFA 10,000-12,000.
- Once verified, you will be issued a duplicate licence.
Carry other ID while driving till you receive the replacement. Inform authorities quickly in case of theft or loss to prevent misuse.
How to Change Address on Driving Licence
If your permanent or residence address changes, update it on your driving licence by:
- Obtain a copy of new address proof – utility bill, rent agreement etc.
- Go to the nearest licence office in person.
- Fill out the ‘Address Change’ form and submit it along with your licence copy and new address proof.
- Pay small application fee of CFA 1500-2000.
- Your updated driving licence will be sent to your new address within 1 week.
It is mandatory to change the address on your licence within 1 month of moving. Driving with an outdated address can attract penalties.
Taking the Driving Theory Test in Guinea-Bissau
To pass the driving theory test in Guinea-Bissau:
- Study the driver’s manual thoroughly which contains rules, signs and safer driving information.
- Practise mock theory tests online or on mobile apps to get familiar with the test format and question style.
- Know the legal traffic regulations and speed limits, especially in urban areas.
- Brush up your knowledge about fines for offences like speeding, drunk driving etc.
- Prepare adequately before the test day. Get proper rest and arrive early.
- Listen to the invigilator’s instructions carefully before starting the test.
- Read each question thoroughly and check your answers before submitting the test.
With good preparation you can comfortably pass the theory test component for obtaining a learner’s permit.
Taking the Driving Practical Test in Guinea-Bissau
The practical driving test evaluates your driving skills. Here are some tips to pass it:
- Take sufficient practice lessons with a licensed driving instructor until you can confidently drive independently.
- Provide your own suitable vehicle for the test in good working condition.
- Reach the driving test center 10-15 minutes early. Be familiar with the location.
- Follow the driving examiner’s directions and drive responsibly obeying all rules.
- Use signals properly before turning or changing lanes. Check mirrors and blind spots.
- Maintain proper speed and watch out for pedestrians, cyclists and other vehicles.
- Parallel park neatly within the designated space in the parking test segment.
- Stay calm and focused throughout. Don’t get nervous and make errors.
Safe driving practices will help you successfully pass the practical test and get your full licence.
Traffic Violations and Penalties in Guinea-Bissau
It is crucial for drivers in Guinea-Bissau to know the common traffic offences and associated penalties:
- Over speeding: Fine of CFA 15,000 to 50,000 based on speed limit exceeded.
- Drunk driving: Fine up to CFA 150,000. Jail up to 1 year. Licence suspended for 2 years.
- Reckless driving: Fine up to CFA 100,000 and/or jail up to 6 months.
- Driving unlicensed vehicle: Fine of CFA 60,000.
- Talking on phone while driving: Fine of CFA 20,000.
- Disobeying traffic lights: Fine between CFA 10,000 to 25,000.
- Faulty parking: Fine between CFA 5000 to 15,000.
- Without insurance: Fine up to CFA 80,000 and vehicle impounding.
- Not wearing seat belt: Fine of CFA 10,000 per unrestrained occupant.
Follow traffic rules carefully to avoid fines and penalties. Carry your driving licence when driving.
FAQs on Guinea-Bissau Driving Licence
1. What is the minimum age to get a driving licence in Guinea-Bissau?
The minimum age to apply for a full driving licence in Guinea-Bissau is 18 years. You can get a learner’s permit from age 17 for practice driving.
2. How much does obtaining a driving licence cost in Guinea-Bissau?
Getting a new driving licence in Guinea-Bissau costs between CFA 13,000-16,000. This includes the permit, testing and issuance fees.
3. What documents do I need to carry when driving in Guinea-Bissau?
When driving in Guinea-Bissau, you must carry your valid local driving licence card, vehicle papers (registration and insurance) and an ID proof like passport.
4. How long is the driving licence valid in Guinea-Bissau?
Driving licences issued in Guinea-Bissau are valid for 6 years from the date of issuance. They must be renewed every 6 years.
5. Can I drive in Guinea-Bissau with my international licence?
Yes, you can legally drive for up to 6 months in Guinea-Bissau with a valid international driving licence along with your original home country licence.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Guinea-Bissau driving licence by passing required tests and meeting eligibility criteria is mandatory for legally driving in the country. Drivers must follow road rules and drive safely.