Rwanda Driving Licence : To obtain a driver’s license in Rwanda, you must go through these steps:
- Meet the eligibility criteria set by Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA)
- Study the driving manual to learn traffic rules and signs
- Take required theory classes at a driving school
- Pass the computer-based traffic rules theory test
- Complete mandatory practical driving lessons
- Pass the road driving test
- Obtain a medical certificate from an approved doctor
- Submit your license application with all documents
- Get your photo taken and collect your new license
Eligibility Requirements for a Rwanda Driving Licence
To qualify for a driver’s license in Rwanda, you must:
- Be minimum 18 years old (21 for commercial vehicles)
- Have a valid national ID card
- Get a medical certificate confirming fitness
- Pass the theory test on traffic rules
- Pass the practical road test
Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining a New License
Here is an overview of the complete process for getting your first driver’s license in Rwanda:
- Step 1: Study the driving manual and road signs
- Step 2: Take compulsory theory classes at a driving school
- Step 3: Register and pass the computerized theory test
- Step 4: Take practical driving lessons with an instructor
- Step 5: Get a medical certificate from a registered doctor
- Step 6: Schedule and pass the practical road test
- Step 7: Submit license application with all documents
- Step 8: Get your photo taken at RRA office
- Step 9: Collect your new plastic license card
Types of Driver’s Licenses Issued in Rwanda
There are different license classes issued by the RRA based on vehicle type:
- Class GDL – Learner’s license
- Class A – Motorcycles
- Class B – Motor vehicles up to 3500 kg
- Class C – Trucks over 3500 kg
- Class D – Public transport vehicles
- Class E – Combination vehicle with trailer
- Class F – Agricultural tractors and machinery
How to Renew Your Rwandan Driver’s License
To renew your Rwandan driver’s license:
- Check expiry date on your license and ensure it’s due
- Get a new medical certificate confirming fitness
- Fill out license renewal application form
- Visit RRA office with documents and old license
- Pay the renewal fee
- Get new photo taken at RRA office
- Clear any pending traffic fines
- Pass vision and traffic rules screening
- Collect your new plastic license card
Documents Required for Renewal
- Expired Rwandan driver’s license
- Valid medical certificate
- National ID card copy
- Completed renewal application
- Payment receipt for renewal fee
Replacing a Lost or Damaged Rwandan License
If your Rwandan driving license is lost, stolen or damaged, you must replace it within 30 days by:
- Reporting loss/damage to police and getting report
- Visiting RRA office and filling form
- Providing police report and national ID
- Paying replacement license fee
- Taking new passport photo
- Passing vision and traffic rules screening
- Collecting replacement plastic license
You’ll get a temporary permit valid for 30 days until the new license is ready.
Changing Your Address on Your License
When changing your residence in Rwanda, you must update your address on your driving license within 30 days by:
- Visiting your local RRA office in-person
- Filling out the change of address notification form
- Providing proof of new residential address
- Submitting your current license and ID
- Paying fee for address change on license
- Getting an updated plastic card license
Your old license will be cancelled and replaced with the new address.
Taking the Theory and Practical Driving Tests
To qualify for a Rwandan driver’s license, you must pass a theory test and practical driving test.
Theory Test
- Computer-based multiple choice test
- Questions cover traffic signs, rules, fines
- Offered in English and Kinyarwanda
- 30 minute time duration
- Must score 75% to pass
Practical Driving Test
- Assesses driving skills on public roads
- Includes maneuvers like parking, junctions, etc.
- Driving inspector provides instructions
- Major errors result in instant failure
- Takes approximately 20-30 minutes
Traffic Violations, Fines and Penalties
Some common traffic violations and penalties in Rwanda:
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Speeding | 5000-150,000 RWF |
| Running red light | 10,000 RWF |
| Distracted driving | 5000 RWF |
| No seat belt | 5000 RWF |
| Invalid license | 20,000 RWF |
License Suspension
- Suspended for 6 months for major violations
- Suspended for 1 year for very serious offenses
- License revoked for most serious violations
Driver’s License Fees in Rwanda
Here are some common Rwandan driver’s license fees:
| Transaction | Fee |
|---|---|
| New license | 5000 RWF |
| License renewal | 5000 RWF |
| Replacement license | 5000 RWF |
| Change of address | 1000 RWF |
| International driving permit | 5000 RWF |
| Learning license | Free |
| Theory test | 2000 RWF |
| Practical test | 10,000 RWF |
FAQs on Rwanda Driving Licence
1. How old do I need to be to get a driver’s license in Rwanda?
You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a driver’s license in Rwanda.
2. What is the validity of a Rwandan driver’s license?
A Rwandan driver’s license is valid for 5 years from date of issue before requiring renewal.
3. Can I drive in other African countries with a Rwandan license?
Yes, Rwandan licenses are valid for driving in Kenya, Uganda and other African states. An IDP is recommended.
4. How do I check my demerit points in Rwanda?
You can check your traffic offense demerit points by visiting your local RRA office in-person.
5. Is a theory test required for a Rwandan license?
Yes, you must pass a computer-based theory test on traffic rules before applying for your driver’s license.