Thailand 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 Thailand 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 Thailand Driving Licence
How long are Tanzanian driving licenses valid for?
Licenses are valid for 3 years from date of issue. They must be renewed before expiration.
What is the minimum age to get a license in Tanzania?
The minimum age is 18 years to apply for any class of driver’s license in Tanzania.
Can I drive in Tanzania with just an International Driving Permit?
No, an IDP itself does not allow driving. You need it along with your national license.
Does Tanzania recognize all foreign licenses?
Tanzania may recognize some foreign licenses for a limited time. Check with SUMATRA.
How many times can I take the driving test?
You can take the practical test up to 3 times before having to retrain and reapply.
Is a vision test required for licensing in Tanzania?
Yes, all applicants have to pass an eyesight exam and also submit a medical report.
What vehicles can you drive with a Class B license?
A Tanzanian Class B license covers private cars, pickups, and light trucks up to 3 tons.
Do I need car insurance just to obtain a license?
No, mandatory insurance is only required after becoming licensed and driving a vehicle.
Can I renew my Tanzanian license from abroad?
Unfortunately no, you have to renew a Tanzanian license in person domestically.
Are learner’s permits available for all license classes?
Yes, you must hold the relevant class learner’s permit before taking tests for that vehicle category.
Driving Legally on Tanzania’s Roads
Obtaining your Tanzanian driver’s license grants the convenience to properly explore the beautiful country. Make sure to renew it on time and drive cautiously obeying all traffic laws.