Uganda Driving Licence : Getting your driver’s license is crucial for legally operating a vehicle in Uganda. This guide covers key details regarding obtaining, renewing, or replacing a Uganda driving license, changing your address, taking driver exams, understanding traffic fines and regulations, and using other driving services.
License Application Process
Follow these main steps to apply for a new Uganda driving licence:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Get an application form from designated centers
- Complete required identity verification
- Undertake driving theory test
- Pass practical driving assessment
- Receive medical exam clearance
- Pay applicable license fees
- Get new photo taken
The main license classes in Uganda include:
- Class A – Motorcycles
- Class B – Light motor vehicles
- Class C – Heavy trucks and lorries
- Class D – Large buses and combinable vehicles
- Class E – Special vehicle types
Here is an overview of getting each type of license:
Motorcycle License (Class A)
- Take motorcycle riding theory test
- Pass practical motorcycle riding test
- Obtain Class A motorcycle license
Light Motor Vehicle License (Class B)
- Study road signs, rules, regulations
- Pass light vehicle theory test
- Pass practical car driving test
- Obtain Class B license
Heavy Vehicle License (Class C)
- Hold Class B licence for 1+ years
- Get medical report for commercial driving
- Pass theory and practical tests for heavy vehicles
Complete testing at accredited driving schools and centres to get your license.
License Renewal Process
Uganda driving permits must be renewed every 3 years. To renew your license:
- Fill out a renewal application form
- Complete identity verification
- Get new medical evaluation if health status has changed
- Submit any required additional documentation
- Pay license renewal fees
- Have new photo taken
Renewing on time before expiration prevents driving illegally. Licenses can be renewed up to 6 months in advance.
Replacing Lost, Stolen or Damaged License
If your driving license gets lost, stolen or too damaged to read properly, you must replace it by:
- Reporting loss/theft to police and obtaining an abstract
- Filling out an application for replacement
- Verifying your identity again
- Paying replacement license fees
- Getting new license photo taken
- Waiting for reissued replacement license document
This will provide you with a new valid driving license to carry. Replace promptly to avoid issues with law enforcement.
Changing Address on Uganda Driving Licence
After moving houses, you must change the address on your license within 30 days. Steps include:
- Fill out change of address notification form
- Show proof of new residential address
- Make payment for address change processing
- Get driving license updated and reprinted with new details
Updating this ensures documents remain up to date if you relocate.
Booking and Taking Your Driving Tests
To qualify for a new Uganda driving license, you’ll need to take and pass mandatory assessments:
Booking Your Tests
- Check test eligibility and requirements
- Select preferred test date and time
- Pay booking deposit fees
- Get test confirmation receipt
Theory Test
The theory test covers:
- Road traffic signs, signals, and markings
- Rules of the road and other regulations
- Safety and hazard perception questions
Useful preparation tips:
- Read through driver handbook
- Practice online mock theory tests
- Brush up knowledge of key rules and signs
Practical Driving Test
The practical test checks your:
- Vehicle safety checks and control
- Ability to drive vehicle properly
- Response to traffic situations
- Overall on-road driving competency
Handy tips for your practical test:
- Take preparatory lessons with an instructor
- Familiarize yourself with the test vehicle
- Follow examiner’s instructions
- Drive safely and legally at all times
With sufficient practice, most applicants can pass and obtain their license.
Traffic Violations and Penalties
As a motorist, you must abide by Uganda’s road and traffic rules or face fines such as:
- Speeding – 50,000 to 100,000 Ugandan Shillings
- Running red light – 30,000 Shillings
- Using phone while driving – 30,000 Shillings
- No seat belt – 10,000 Shillings
- Unlicensed driving – 50,000 Shillings
- Drink driving – 100,000 Shillings or jail
Pay fines promptly. Accumulating points may lead to license suspension.
Other Driving Related Services
Besides licensing, Uganda offers other useful services:
Vehicle Registration and Transfers
- Register newly acquired vehicles
- Transfer registration when selling cars
Emissions Testing
- Get routine emission check certificates
- May be required during annual vehicle inspection
Traffic Records
- Request copy of your driver history
- Obtain traffic accident reports
- Check accumulated demerit points
So in summary – use this guide to help you apply for, renew, or replace your Uganda driver’s license. Always drive legally and safely on roads to avoid traffic violations. Utilize any other vehicle registration or testing services you may need.
FAQs on Uganda Driving Licence
Q1. How early can I renew my Uganda driving licence?
You can renew your Uganda driving license up to 6 months before the expiry date.
Q2. Can I drive in Uganda with my overseas license?
Foreign licenses from designated countries are valid for short tourist visits. Some expats can drive for 3 months before needing a local license.
Q3. What documents do I need to apply for a Uganda license?
You’ll require a valid passport, passport photos, completed application forms, medical clearance, and booking receipts for driving tests.
Q4. Do I need to take driving lessons before getting a license?
Yes, compulsory professional driving lessons and experience are required before attempting the driving tests.
Q5. How long does it take to get your licence in Uganda?
If you pass all needed tests, it takes 2-3 weeks to get your new Uganda driving licence card issued.
Conclusion
We hope this guide has provided you all the necessary details on obtaining, renewing and generally managing your Ugandan driver’s license. Follow the step-by-step application procedures outlined. Book and prepare thoroughly for your theory and practical driving tests. Adhere to all road rules and traffic regulations to avoid fines. Utilize any other vehicle registration and testing services as required. With this knowledge, your licensing and driving experience in Uganda should go smoothly.