Jamaica Driving Licence : Getting a driver’s license in Jamaica follows a clear process – from applying for your learner’s permit, taking the written driving test, the practical road test, renewing your license, replacing if lost or changing your address. Read on for a complete guide to Jamaica’s licensing laws, exams, fees and more!
Getting a New Jamaica Driving Licence
To apply for your first Jamaican driver’s license:
Meet the Minimum Age Requirements
- 16 years and over – eligible for learner’s permit
- 17 years and over – eligible for provisional license
- 18 years and over – eligible for full driver’s license
Provide Required Documents
- Taxpayer Registration Number (TRN)
- Birth certificate
- Proof of address
- Learner’s permit (if you hold one)
Complete Required Exams
- Take a computer-based multiple choice written driving test covering road signs, rules, fines and safety. Offered in English only.
- Pass a practical road test with a government examiner testing your driving skills over a test route.
Pay the License Fee
- J$5000 for a new 3-year provisional or full license
Renewing Your Jamaican Driver’s License
To renew your Jamaican driver’s license:
- Licenses must be renewed every 3 years
- Renewal can be done within 6 months before expiration
- Required documents: current license, TRN, proof of address
- Complete renewal application and eye exam at licensing office
- Have new photo taken and updated license issued
- Pay renewal fee of J$5000 for 3 years
Replacing a Lost or Stolen License
If your Jamaican driver’s license is lost or stolen:
- File a police report regarding the lost license
- Bring police report and TRN to licensing office
- Complete application and pay J$5000 replacement fee
- Have new photo taken and replacement license issued
Changing Your Address on Your License
After moving houses in Jamaica:
- Update your address at the tax office within 30 days
- Bring updated TRN card to licensing office
- Fill out address change application for your license
- Pay small fee for updated license with new address
Taking the Driver’s Exam in Jamaica
To prepare for and pass the driving exams:
For the written test:
- Study the official driver’s handbook and road code
- Take practice tests online to prepare
- Written test is computer-based multiple choice questions
- Passing grade is 75% (15 correct answers out of 20)
For the practical road test:
- Have a licensed driver accompany you in the test vehicle
- Examiner will assess your driving skills over a test route
- You’ll be asked to demonstrate parking, turning, merging etc.
- Vehicle must be roadworthy with insurance
Traffic Fines and Rules in Jamaica
Here are some key traffic fines and rules:
Common fines include:
- Speeding – $1500 to $4000 JMD depending on how much over the limit
- Running a red light – $5000 JMD
- Using a mobile phone while driving – $7000 JMD
- Driving without a seatbelt – $2000 JMD
- Careless or reckless driving – $8000 JMD
Other important Jamaican road rules:
- Drive on the left side of the road
- All vehicle occupants must wear seat belts
- Motorcycle riders must wear helmets
- No texting, emailing or web browsing while driving
- Zero tolerance alcohol limit for novice drivers
FAQs on Jamaica Driving Licence
1. How long is a Jamaican driver’s license valid for?
Jamaican licenses are valid for 3 years before needing renewal.
2. Can I switch my foreign license for a Jamaican one?
No, you’ll have to pass the written and road exams even if you hold a valid foreign license.
3. Is an International Driving Permit required to rent a car?
No, an IDP is not required to rent a car if you have a valid driver’s license from your home country.
4. What vehicles require special licenses in Jamaica?
You need specific licenses for motorcycles, heavy vehicles over 16,000 lbs, public passenger vehicles and tractor trailers.
5. Can I take the driving test in manuals or automatics?
You must take the practical road test in the same type of transmission vehicle you plan to drive with your license.