Ethiopia Driving Licence or Driver Permit

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

This guide covers how to get a new or renew an existing Ethiopian driver’s license, change your address, take the driver exam, pay traffic fines, and understand Ethiopia driving laws.

Getting a New Ethiopia Driving Licence

To get your first driver’s license in Ethiopia, you must:

Meet Age Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old to apply for a full driver’s license.
• Ages 16-17 can obtain a learner’s permit.

Provide Required Documents

• Completed license application form.
• Valid Ethiopian national ID card or passport.
• Proof of residence in Ethiopia.
• 2 passport size photos.
• Applicable license fees.

Pass Necessary Exams

• Rules of the road knowledge test.
• Vision screening for minimum acuity.
• Practical on-road driving test.

Receive Your License

• Once you pass all exams, you’ll be issued a photo driver’s license.
• Allows legal operation of vehicles on Ethiopian roads.
• Licenses must be renewed every 4 years.

Renewing an Ethiopian Driver’s License

To renew an expiring Ethiopian driver’s license:

• Apply up to 1 year before your license expires.
• Complete and submit renewal application.
• Provide updated ID documents if anything changed.
• Pass vision screening again.
• Pay license renewal fees.
• New photo may be required.

Failure to renew on time can result in fines and need to retake driver exams.

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Ethiopian License

If your Ethiopian driver’s license is lost or stolen:

• Immediately report it to the police and get an incident report.
• Apply for replacement at licensing office.
• Show police report and confirmation of identity.
• Pay fees for replacement license.
• Have new photo and signature captured.

Prompt reporting gives you the best chance of avoiding re-testing.

Changing Your Address on an Ethiopian Driver’s License

After moving to a new permanent address in Ethiopia, you must update your driver’s license:

• Visit your local licensing office in person.
• Fill out address change application form.
• Provide proof of your new residential address.
• Pay applicable fees for updated license.
• Have license issued showing new address.

Some agencies allow address changes by mail with proper documentation.

Taking the Driver Exam in Ethiopia

To qualify for a new Ethiopian driver’s license, you must pass:

Knowledge Test

• Written rules of the road exam.
• Oral questioning on road signs and safety.
• Vision screening for minimum acuity.

Practical Driving Test

• On-road evaluation of driving skills.
• Assesses ability to control vehicle and obey laws.
• Points deducted for errors.

Practice tests can help prepare for the exams. Many applicants need multiple attempts before passing.

Paying Traffic Fines in Ethiopia

If you receive a traffic citation in Ethiopia, you can pay the fines:

• In person at the nearest police station.
• By mail sending a cheque or money order.
• At some Ethiopian courts via cash or card payment.
• Via CBE Birr online banking if option available.

Fines have a due date before additional late penalties apply.

Overview of Traffic Laws in Ethiopia

When driving in Ethiopia, you must obey these essential rules:

• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Obey posted speed limits (60km/hr urban, 100km/hr highways).
• Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
• Mandatory seat belt use by driver and passengers.
• Strict drunk driving laws – maximum 0.08% BAC.
• No use of handheld phones while driving.
• Use indicators when turning or changing lanes.
• Obey all traffic officers, signs, and signals.

Violating Ethiopia’s traffic laws can lead to fines, arrest, and licence suspension. Always drive safely and legally.

FAQs on Ethiopia Driving Licence

What is the minimum age to get an Ethiopian driver’s license?

The minimum age is 18 years for a full license and 16 years for a learner’s permit in Ethiopia.

How long are Ethiopian driver’s licenses valid for?

Ethiopian driver’s licenses are valid for 4 years from date of issue. They must be renewed before expiration to remain valid.

Can I drive in Kenya with an Ethiopian driver’s license?

Unfortunately Ethiopian licenses are not valid for driving across the border in Kenya. You would need a Kenyan license.

What documents do I need to renew my Ethiopian driver’s license?

You’ll need current ID, updated proofs of residence, to pass vision screening again, new photos if required, and to pay the license renewal fees.

Is there an online system for paying traffic fines in Ethiopia?

There is no nationwide online system for paying fines yet. Fines must be paid in-person, by mail, or via CBE Birr online banking where available.