Solomon Islands Driving Licence : Obtaining a driving licence in Solomon Islands allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads. Here is an overview:
Types of Licences
- Learner’s licence – Allows learning under supervision. Valid 6 months.
- Provisional licence – Issued after passing test. Valid 1 year.
- Full licence – Issued after 1 year with provisional licence. Valid up to 5 years.
Governing Body
The National Transport Authority oversees driver licensing through local Area Offices.
Minimum Ages
- 16 years for learner’s licence
- 18 years for provisional licence
- 20 years for full licence
Documents Required
- Application form
- Medical report
- Passport photos
- Proof of ID
- Proof of residence
- Licence fees
Getting a Licence
- Pass theory test
- Get learner’s permit
- Practice under supervision
- Pass practical test
- Obtain provisional licence
- Drive with provisional licence
- Get full licence
Applying for Your First Solomon Islands Driving Licence
Follow these steps to apply for your first driving licence in Solomon Islands:
1. Meet the Minimum Age
You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a learner’s permit.
2. Obtain Medical Report
Get a medical report from an approved doctor confirming fitness to drive.
3. Apply for Learner’s Permit
Submit the application form with medical report, ID proof, photos at the Area Office.
4. Take Theory Test
Pass the multiple choice questions test on road signs and driving rules.
5. Get Learner’s Permit
You will be issued a laminated learner’s permit valid for 6 months.
6. Practice with Supervision
Get practice driving with a licensed driver over 25 years old.
7. Pass Practical Test
Appear for the road test with the Area Office examiner.
8. Obtain Provisional Licence
Once you pass the road test you will get a printed provisional licence valid for 1 year.
Renewing Your Solomon Islands Driving Licence
Driving licences are valid up to 5 years in Solomon Islands. Here is how to renew your licence:
When to Renew
You can renew up to 6 months before the expiry date without having to retake tests.
Documents Required
- Application form
- Current driving licence
- Medical report
- Passport photos
- Licence renewal fee
Renewal Process
- Submit the above documents at the Area Office
- Undergo medical checkup
- Get your renewed licence with updated validity
Replacing a Lost or Stolen Licence in Solomon Islands
If your driving licence is lost or stolen, here is how to replace it:
Report Loss to Police
File a police complaint regarding the lost licence and obtain a police report.
Apply for Replacement
Visit the Area Office with the police report and ID proof. Fill out the application for replacement.
Get Replacement Licence
After verification, a duplicate licence will be printed with the same details and validity.
Changing Your Address on Solomon Islands Driving Licence
To change the address on your driving licence:
Documents Required
- Application form
- Current driving licence
- Proof of new address
- Passport photos
- ID proof
Process
- Submit documents to Area Office
- Your updated licence will be issued with new address
Transferring Foreign Licence to Solomon Islands Licence
If you become a resident you can drive for 3 months on your foreign licence. After that:
- Provide your foreign licence
- Get a medical report
- Pass practical test if required
- Pay transfer fees
- Obtain local Solomon Islands licence
Taking the Driving Test in Solomon Islands
Here are some tips for taking your driving test:
Booking the Test
Book your test at the Area Office by submitting your learner’s permit and paying fees.
Test Vehicle
Bring a registered insured roadworthy vehicle for the test. The examiner will inspect it.
Test Format
The test assesses you on vehicle inspection, yard test maneuvers and road driving skills.
Passing Criteria
You must score at least 80% to pass the Solomon Islands driving test.
Failure Policy
You must wait 7 days before retaking the test if you fail. After 3 failures, there is a 1 month waiting period.
Traffic Violations and Penalties in Solomon Islands
Some common traffic offences and penalties:
- Exceeding speed limit – SBD$300-500 fine
- Dangerous driving – SBD$500-1000 fine + licence suspension
- Disobeying traffic lights – SBD$150 fine
- Drunk driving – SBD$2000 fine + imprisonment
- Driving without licence – SBD$300 fine
- Illegal parking – SBD$50 fine
FAQs on Solomon Islands Driving Licence
Q1. How do I schedule my driving test in Solomon Islands?
You can book driving test appointments online or in-person at the Area Office by submitting your learner’s permit and paying fees.
Q2. What is the minimum age for getting a driving licence in Solomon Islands?
The minimum age is 16 years for a learner’s permit, 18 years for provisional licence, and 20 years for full licence.
Q3. What documents do I need to bring for the test?
You need your learner’s permit, ID proof, test fees, and a registered insured roadworthy vehicle for the test.
Q4. For how many years is a Solomon Islands driving licence valid?
A full Solomon Islands driving licence is valid for up to 5 years from date of issue. It must be renewed before expiry.