Namibia Driving Licence or Driver Permit

Namibia Driving Licence : Getting a driver’s license in Namibia allows you to legally operate motor vehicles on public roads.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for your first Namibian driver’s license or renewing an existing one.

Eligibility Criteria for a Namibia Driving Licence

To qualify for a driver’s permit in Namibia, you must:

• Be at least 17 years old
• Pass required theory and practical driving tests
• Complete an eye exam
• Provide valid Namibian identification documents
• Show proof of legal residency in Namibia

Types of Driver’s Licenses in Namibia

Namibia issues the following categories of driving licenses:

• Code 1 – Motorcycles
• Code 2 – Motor vehicles under 3500kg like cars and light trucks
• Code 3 – Heavy motor vehicles over 3500kg such as buses and lorries
• Code 4 – Combination vehicles like road trains and B+E licenses
• Code 5 – Motor tricycles

How to Apply for a New Namibian Driver’s License

Follow these steps to obtain your first driver’s license in Namibia:

1. Study and Practice Driving

Study the rules of the road and practice your driving skills before attempting the license exams.

2. Book Your Learner’s License Test

Visit your local traffic department to book a date for the computer-based learner’s license test.

3. Pass the Learner’s License Test

Take and pass the multiple choice test on road signs, laws and driving safety with at least 80% score.

4. Get a Learner’s License

Once you pass the test, you will be issued a learner’s license valid for 6 months.

5. Book and Take the Practical Driving Test

With your learner’s permit, schedule and take the behind-the-wheel driving test with a licensing examiner.

6. Pass Eye Examination

Take and pass the standard vision test examining visual acuity, peripheral vision and color recognition.

7. Pay the Fee

Pay the license issuance fee to the traffic department.

8. Obtain Your Driver’s License

With all requirements fulfilled, you will be issued your photo driver’s license document.

Renewing Your Namibian Driver’s License

• Namibian licenses are renewable every 5 years.
• Visit your local traffic department within 1 month of expiration.
• Provide your expiring license and complete renewal application.
• Pay prescribed renewal fees.
• Get a new photo taken.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Namibian License

• Report missing license to the police immediately and obtain a report.
• Visit your traffic department with police report and valid identification.
• Complete an application form and pay fees for a replacement license.

Changing Your Address on a Namibian License

• Notify your local traffic department within 21 days of changing addresses.
• Provide documentation proving your new residential address.
• Fill out address change notification form and pay a small fee.
• Your updated license will be printed reflecting the new address.

Tips for Passing the Namibian Driver’s License Exams

Here are some handy tips for passing the learner’s and driving tests:

Learner’s Test Tips:

• Thoroughly study the learner’s manual, road signs and rules.
• Practice taking sample tests to prepare.
• Read each question carefully and double check your answers.

Driving Test Tips:

• Take preparatory lessons with an instructor to hone your skills.
• Perform necessary vehicle safety checks before the test.
• Follow the examiner’s instructions promptly.
• Drive responsibly obeying all traffic laws and signals.
• Maintain control of the vehicle and stay calm throughout the test.

Paying Traffic Fines and Penalties in Namibia

As a driver in Namibia, you must adhere to traffic laws or risk fines for violations like:

• Exceeding speed limit – N$300-600
• Running a red light – up to N$300
• Reckless driving – N$300-N$600
• Driving without a license – up to N$2000
• DUI – N$1500-N$4000
• Illegal parking – N$100-300

Fines can be paid at police stations and authorized banks within 32 days. Not paying promptly leads to additional penalties.

Other Important Driving and License Services in Namibia

• Apply for an International Driving Permit to drive abroad
• Check your driver’s license demerit points
• Schedule a driving retest if you fail
• Take mandatory road safety lectures
• Renew vehicle license discs
• Register change of vehicle ownership
• Report traffic accidents to the police immediately

FAQs on Namibia Driving Licence

1. How much does it cost to get a driver’s license in Namibia?

You’ll need around N$400-600 covering learner’s test, driving test, eye exam, license fees and other costs.

2. What is the minimum driving age in Namibia?

The minimum age to obtain a learner’s permit is 17 years. You can get a driving license at 18 years.

3. How long are Namibian driver’s licenses valid?

Namibian driver’s licenses are valid for 5 years from date of issue before requiring renewal.

4. Can I drive in Namibia with my foreign license?

Foreign licenses are valid for 3 months. You’ll need a Namibian license for longer stays.

5. How do I change my address on my Namibian license?

Visit your traffic department, fill out the notification form, provide address proof and pay a small fee to change the address.