Tanzania Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Tanzania Driving Licence : To legally operate a motor vehicle in Tanzania, you must obtain a driver’s license issued by the National Transport Authority (SUMATRA). Key requirements include:

• Minimum age is 18 years to apply for a car license.
• Both citizens and foreign residents can obtain a Tanzanian license.
• Requires passing theoretical and practical driving tests.
• Licenses must be renewed every 3 years.
• An International Driving Permit allows driving abroad.

Categories of Driver’s Licenses

Tanzania issues the following classes of driving licenses:

• Class A: For motorcycles and three-wheelers.
• Class B: For private vehicles like cars and pickup trucks.
• Class C: For heavy vehicles over 3.5 tons like lorries and buses.
• Class D: For articulated and special purpose vehicles.
• Class E: For operating agricultural tractors and equipment.

Step-by-Step Process to Get a License

Follow these key steps to obtain your Tanzanian driver’s license:

1. Apply for Learner’s Permit

• Visit local SUMATRA office and obtain application forms.
• Submit completed forms with ID, passport photos, medical certificate.
• Undertake eyesight test and basic computer test.
• Pay TZS 20,000 for provisional learner’s permit.

2. Pass Theoretical Test

• Study the official SUMATRA road rules and signs manual carefully.
• Take the computerized theoretical test at the SUMATRA center.
• Pass all sections including road signs, rules, traffic signals.

3. Book Driving Test Date

• If passed theory test, visit SUMATRA office to book driving test.
• Submit learner’s permit, ID, passport photos and pay test fees.
• You will be assigned a date for the practical test.

4. Take and Pass Driving Test

• Bring documents on appointed date to test center.
• A driving examiner will assess your road test performance.
• If passed, obtain certification and apply for your license.

Acquiring an International Driving Permit

With a Tanzanian license, you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive abroad.

To obtain an IDP:

• Apply at the Tanzania Automobile Association.
• Submit passport photos, Tanzanian license, completed forms.
• Pay processing fees of around TZS 30,000.
• You will be issued an IDP valid for 1 year.

Over 100 countries recognize the IDP globally.

Renewing Your Tanzania Driving Licence

• Licenses must be renewed every 3 years.
• Visit your local SUMATRA office before expiration.
• Present old license, new medical form, passport photos, fees.
• Pay renewal fee of TZS 30,000.
• An updated license will be issued.

Replacing Lost or Damaged Licenses

If your Tanzanian driver’s license is lost or damaged, promptly arrange for a replacement:

• File a police report regarding your missing license.
• Visit nearest SUMATRA office and provide police report.
• Fill out replacement application and pay fees.
• You may need to retake the computer tests.
• A duplicate license will then be issued.

Transferring Foreign Licenses

You can transfer a valid foreign driver’s license by:

• Applying at SUMATRA within 90 days of becoming a resident.
• Providing current foreign license, translations, passport, photos.
• Passing medical screening and vision exam.
• Paying transfer fee of TZS 45,000.
• No need to take driving exams again.

Traffic Violations and Penalties

Tanzania enforces strict traffic laws and regulations. Some examples:

• Speeding – Fines from TZS 30,000 plus license endorsements
• Drunk Driving – Fine TZS 150,000, jail up to 1 year
• Reckless Driving – Suspension or revocation of license
• Running Red Light – Fine TZS 50,000
• No License – Fine TZS 100,000
• No Insurance – Fine TZS 200,000

License Fees and Costs in Tanzania

Typical driver’s license fees in Tanzania include:

• Learner’s Permit – TZS 20,000
• Theoretical Test – TZS 20,000
• Practical Test – TZS 30,000
• License Renewal – TZS 30,000
• Replacement License – TZS 20,000
• International Driving Permit – TZS 30,000

Budget around TZS 150,000-200,000 in total to obtain a new license.

Booking Tests and Checking Results Online

SUMATRA now offers an online portal at www.sumatra.go.tz for:

• Booking theory and practical driving tests.
• Paying license fees securely online.
• Checking computer test results.
• Tracking license application processing.

Using the online system speeds up the licensing process.

FAQ on Tanzania Driving Licence