Malawi Driving Licence : Getting your first driver’s license or learner’s permit in Malawi involves passing required exams, meeting eligibility criteria, paying fees and understanding the overall process. This guide covers everything you need to know.
How to Get a New Malawi Driving Licence
To obtain your initial Malawi driver’s license:
Meet the Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass vision and medical exams.
- Complete traffic rules learning.
- Pass theory and practical driving tests.
Enroll in a Driving School
- Take at least 10 hours of theory lessons.
- Complete minimum 15 hours practical lessons.
- Get trained to pass required exams.
Apply for Learner’s Permit
- Pass required learner’s theory test.
- Submit application and pay fee.
- Use permit to practice driving under supervision.
Pass Your Driving Test
- Take and pass the practical on-road driving test.
- Demonstrate safe driving knowledge and skills.
Get Your License
- Submit medical certificates, exam results, ID documents.
- Pay license fee and get photo taken.
- Receive new plastic card format license.
How to Renew a Malawi Driver’s License
To renew an expiring Malawi license:
- Licenses must be renewed every 5 years.
- Renewal notice will be sent prior to expiration.
- Visit licensing office and submit renewal application.
- Pay renewal fee.
- Have updated photo taken.
- New license will be issued.
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Malawi License
If your Malawi driver’s license is lost or stolen:
- File a police report about the missing license.
- Bring police report to licensing office.
- Fill out replacement license application.
- Provide updated photo and pay fee.
- Temporary paper license will be issued immediately.
- New plastic license will arrive later.
How to Change Your Address on a Malawi License
When moving within Malawi:
- Notify licensing office of address change within 14 days.
- Provide proof of new address.
- Fill out change of address notification form.
- Pay administrative fee.
- Updated license will be mailed to you.
Taking the Malawi Driver’s License Exam
To obtain your license, you must pass a theory exam:
- Study traffic laws, signs, rules, and regulations.
- Schedule your theory exam appointment.
- Take 40 multiple choice question test.
- Score at least 35 correct to pass.
- Get results immediately after completing test.
- Pass is valid for 6 months.
Tips for passing your theory test:
- Review driver’s manual and practice tests thoroughly.
- Arrive early, don’t rush.
- Read each question carefully before answering.
- Pick the most comprehensive answer choice.
- Don’t overthink simple questions.
Paying Traffic Fines in Malawi
If you receive a ticket for a traffic violation:
- Fines may be issued immediately by police or mailed.
- Pay minor fines at designated police stations.
- More serious fines require court appearance.
- Unpaid fines incur penalties and collections.
- Multiple violations can lead to license suspension.
To avoid fines:
- Obey posted speed limits and traffic signs.
- Maintain valid vehicle registration and insurance.
- Keep your license with you when driving.
- Comply with officer instructions if stopped.
Malawi Driver’s License Services
Malawi provides services related to driver’s licenses including:
- License issuance and renewals
- Replacement licenses
- Address changes
- Driving records and transcripts
- License suspensions and revocations
- Knowledge and road testing
- Medical reviews
FAQs on Malawi Driving Licence
1. What is the minimum age to get a driver’s license in Malawi?
The minimum age to obtain a full Malawi driver’s license is 18 years old. You can get a learner’s permit starting at age 16.
2. What documents do I need to get a Malawian driver’s license?
You’ll need ID, passport photos, medical certificates, proof of residency, theory exam results, and application fees.
3. Is there a required written test for a Malawi license?
Yes, you must pass a 40 multiple choice question theory test with at least 35 correct answers.
4. How many hours of driving lessons are required in Malawi?
You must complete at least 10 hours of theory lessons and 15 practical lessons.
5. What is the cost to get a new Malawi driver’s license?
The cost to obtain a new Malawi driver’s license is typically around 10,000 Kwacha.