Togo Driving Licence : To legally operate a motor vehicle in Togo, you must hold a valid driver’s license issued by the National Police. Key requirements include:
- Minimum age is 18 years to apply for a car license.
- Both citizens and foreign residents can obtain a Togolese license.
- Requires passing theory test on road signs and rules.
- Must also pass a practical driving test.
- Licenses must be renewed every 5 years.
Categories of Driver’s Licenses
Togo issues the following classes of driving licenses:
- Class A: For motorcycles.
- Class B: For private vehicles like cars and light trucks.
- Class C: For heavy vehicles over 3.5 tons like lorries and buses.
- Class D: For dangerous goods vehicles and tankers.
- Class E: For special vehicles like tractors and forklifts.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a License
Follow these key steps to obtain your Togolese driver’s license:
1. Apply for Learner’s Permit
- Visit the police licensing office and fill out application forms.
- Submit ID, passport photos, medical certificate, vision test results.
- Take basic theory test on road signs and rules and pass.
- Obtain 1 year provisional learner’s permit.
2. Take Compulsory Driving Lessons
- Complete minimum 15 hours lessons at accredited driving school.
- Focus on safely controlling the vehicle and traffic laws.
- Get a certification of completed driving lessons.
3. Pass Theory Test
- Study the official driver’s handbook carefully.
- Take the computerized theory test at the police station.
- Pass with a score of at least 80% correct answers.
4. Pass the Driving Test
- Take the practical test with a police examiner.
- Demonstrate competent driving skills and control of vehicle.
- If passed, obtain your permanent license card.
Getting an International Driving Permit
With a Togolese license, you can apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) to legally drive abroad.
To get a Togo IDP:
- Apply at the police licensing office.
- Submit Togolese license, passport photos, completed application.
- Pay processing fees.
- You will be issued an IDP valid for 1 year.
Over 150 countries recognize the standardized IDP.
Renewing Your Togolese License
- Licenses must be renewed every 5 years.
- Visit police licensing office before expiration.
- Submit old license, new medical certificate, photos, fees.
- Pay renewal fee and get updated license.
Replacing Lost or Damaged Licenses
If your Togolese driver’s license is lost or damaged, promptly arrange for a replacement:
- File a police report about your missing license.
- Visit the police licensing office and provide police report.
- Fill out replacement forms and pay fee.
- You may need to retake theory test and eye exam before reissuing.
- A duplicate license will then be provided.
Transferring Foreign Licenses
You can convert a valid foreign driver’s license to a Togolese one by:
- Applying within 185 days of becoming a resident.
- Submitting current foreign license, translations, passport, photos.
- Passing medical screening and vision test.
- Paying transfer fee.
- No need to take driving exams again.
Traffic Violations and Penalties
Togo enforces strict traffic laws and regulations. Some examples include:
- Speeding – Fines, license endorsements
- Drunk Driving – Large fines, license suspension
- Reckless Driving – Fine, imprisonment
- Running Red Light – Fines
- No License – Vehicle impounding
- Multiple offenses may result in revocation.
Cost of Obtaining a License
Typical fees for obtaining a Togolese driver’s license:
- Learner’s permit – 10,000 CFA
- Theory test – 5,000 CFA
- Practical test – 15,000 CFA
- Driving lessons – 5,000 CFA per hour
- License renewal – 10,000 CFA
- Replacement license – 10,000 CFA
- International driving permit – 15,000 CFA
Budget around 50,000-70,000 CFA total for a new license.
Booking Tests and Checking Results Online
Some Togolese police licensing offices now offer online services for:
- Booking theory and practical driving tests.
- Paying license fees securely online.
- Checking theory and road test results.
Check availability in your area.
FAQ on Togo Driving Licence
How long are Togolese driving licenses valid for?
Licenses are valid for 5 years from date of issue before requiring renewal.
What is the minimum age to get a license in Togo?
The minimum age is 18 years old to apply for any class of driver’s license in Togo.
Can I drive using just an International Driving Permit?
No, an IDP itself does not allow driving in Togo. You must also have your national license.
Does Togo recognize all foreign licenses?
Togo may recognize some foreign licenses for a limited time. Check with the police licensing office.
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.
Driving Legally on Togo’s Roads
Obtaining your Togolese driver’s license allows you to drive in the country hassle-free. Make sure to renew it on time and always follow the local traffic laws. Drive defensively and stay safe on Togo’s roads!