Zimbabwe Driver’s Licence: Getting a driver’s licence in Zimbabwe allows you to legally operate a motor vehicle on public roads. Here is a comprehensive guide on applying for, renewing, replacing, and updating your Zimbabwe driver’s licence.

Eligibility Criteria for Applying

To be eligible for a driver’s licence in Zimbabwe, you must:

• Be at least 17 years old for a light motor vehicle licence
• Pass the required written and practical driving tests
• Provide required documentation like ID, residence proof, medical certificate
• Pay the applicable licence fees

Types of Licences

Zimbabwe issues the following classes of driver’s licences:

• Class 1: Motorcycles
• Class 2: Light motor vehicles (cars, vans etc up to 3500kg)
• Class 3: Heavy motor vehicles like trucks and buses
• Class 4: Combination vehicles like road trains with towed trailers

How to Apply for a New Driver’s Licence

Follow these steps to get a new driver’s licence in Zimbabwe:

• Step 1: Study for the written rules and signs test. The test covers the traffic rules, regulations, road signs, and signals.
• Step 2: Book an appointment at your nearest licensing office for the written test. You need to pass the test to proceed further.
• Step 3: Obtain a learner’s licence by passing the written test and paying the fees. This allows you to practice driving with an experienced driver.
• Step 4: Practice for the practical driving test. You need to demonstrate good driving skills like lane changing, parking, 3 point turn etc.
• Step 5: Book an appointment for the driving test at the licensing office. Bring your own vehicle for the test.
• Step 6: Pass the driving test to obtain your plastic driver’s licence card. You need to carry this licence while driving.

How to Renew your Driver’s Licence in Zimbabwe

Your Zimbabwe driver’s licence is valid for 5 years. To renew it, you need to:

• Apply for renewal up to 6 months before your licence expires. Submit the renewal application form along with your old licence.
• Get a new medical fitness certificate from an approved medical practitioner.
• Submit photocopies of your ID and residence proof.
• Pay the applicable renewal fees.
• Get your new licence card with updated validity. Check that all details on the card are correct.

Replacing a Lost or Damaged Driver’s Licence

If you lose your driver’s licence or it gets damaged/destroyed, here is how to get a replacement in Zimbabwe:

• Report the loss/damage to the police and get a copy of the police report.
• Apply for a duplicate licence at the closest licensing office. Provide details of licence loss/damage along with the police report copy.
• Furnish other documents like ID proof, passport photo, residential address proof etc.
• Pay the replacement fee to get your duplicate driver’s licence card.

Updating the Address on Your Driver’s Licence

If you change your residential address, you must get it updated on your driver’s licence:

• Obtain a copy of your new address proof like utility bill, bank statement etc.
• Fill the driver’s licence address change application form along with the proof.
• Submit the form and documents at the licensing office to get the address changed.
• Pay a small update fee.
• You will get an updated driver’s licence card with your new address.

Booking a Road Test Appointment

Follow these steps to book an appointment for your driving road test in Zimbabwe:

• Step 1: Ensure you comply with the eligibility criteria like minimum age limit, holding a learner’s permit etc.
• Step 2: Prepare for the road test by practicing extensively with an experienced driver.
• Step 3: Download the road test appointment application form online or get it at the testing office.
• Step 4: Fill in all details like your learner’s permit number, ID number, contact information etc.
• Step 5: Select your preferred date and time for the test according to the slots available.
• Step 6: Submit the completed form along with the booking fee at the testing office or online.
• Step 7: You will receive a booking confirmation with the test date, time, and location details. Follow the instructions to take the test.

Paying Traffic Fines and Following Rules

As a driver in Zimbabwe, you must follow traffic rules and pay any fines you incur on time:

• Always carry your driver’s licence, vehicle registration, and insurance papers when driving.
• Obey speed limits, traffic lights, road signs, and lane driving rules.
• Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Use safety belts and do not use your mobile when driving.
• If you violate rules, traffic police can issue you a ticket/fine on the spot or by post.
• Fines can be paid online, at police stations, or at designated banks within the stipulated period.
• Not paying fines can lead to penalties or suspension of your licence.
• Accumulation of demerit points for offences can also cause licence suspension.

Other Zimbabwe Driver’s Licence Services

Some other useful services related to your driver’s licence in Zimbabwe include:

• Duplicate licence – Apply for a duplicate if your licence is lost, stolen or damaged.
• Renew expired licence – You can renew an expired licence up to 5 years after expiry.
• Verification services – Verify licence details like expiry, demerit points for employers etc.
• Medical fitness certificate – Required for obtaining and renewing your licence.
• Updating personal details – Change your name, address or photo on the licence when needed.
• License suspension check – Check if your licence is suspended before driving.
• Demerit points check – Check accumulated demerit points which can lead to suspension.
• Driving record abstract – Obtain your official driving record and accident history.

Frequently Asked Questions on Zimbabwe Driver’s Licences

Here are some common questions about getting a driver’s licence in Zimbabwe: