Do you want a Zambian driving license? Obtaining a driver's license in Zambia is an easy process, regardless of your citizenship status.
You must be in good health and be qualified to drive a specific kind of car to get a license in Zambia.
To become a responsible driver, the next step is to enroll in a driving school and understand the highway code in Zambia.
There are various kinds of driving licenses in Zambia.
If you want to use your current foreign driver's license, an international driving permit can also be obtained for you.
This article will walk you through the process of obtaining an international driving permit and obtaining a driver's license in Zambia.
How to obtain a Zambian driving license?
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to obtain a Zambian driving license:
Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide proof of identity (NRC, passport, or birth certificate)
- Pass a vision test
- Pass a driving test
- Pay required fees
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Apply for a learner's permit:
- Visit the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) office
- Fill out the application form
- Pay the learner's permit fee (K150)
- Pass the vision test
2. Study for the theory test:
- Obtain a copy of the Highway Code
- Study the rules of the road and traffic signs
3. Take the theory test:
- Visit the RTSA office
- Pay the theory test fee (K50)
- Take the multiple-choice test
4. Get driving lessons:
- Find a licensed driving instructor
- Complete the required number of lessons
5. Take the practical driving test:
- Visit the RTSA office
- Pay the practical test fee (K200)
- Take the driving test with a licensed examiner
6. Apply for a provisional license:
- After passing the practical test, apply for a provisional license
- Pay the provisional license fee (K200)
7. Apply for a permanent license:
- After holding the provisional license for 6 months, apply for a permanent license
- Pay the permanent license fee (K500)
Additional Tips:
- Ensure you have all required documents and fees before visiting the RTSA office
- Practice driving under the supervision of a licensed instructor
- Familiarize yourself with Zambian road signs and traffic rules
Note: Fees may vary, so it's best to check with the RTSA office for the most up-to-date information.
Types of driving license in Zambia
In Zambia, there are several types of driving licenses issued by the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA):
1. Class A: Motorcycles up to 50cc (K150 fee)
2. Class B: Motorcycles above 50cc (K200 fee)
3. Class C: Light motor vehicles (up to 2.5 tons) (K500 fee)
4. Class CE: Light motor vehicles with trailer (up to 2.5 tons) (K600 fee)
5. Class D: Heavy motor vehicles (above 2.5 tons) (K800 fee)
6. Class DE: Heavy motor vehicles with trailer (above 2.5 tons) (K1,000 fee)
7. Class E: Articulated motor vehicles (K1,200 fee)
8. Class G: Special vehicles (e.g., ambulances, fire engines) (K500 fee)
9. Class H: Agricultural vehicles (K300 fee)
10. Provisional License: For new drivers, valid for 6 months (K200 fee)
Additionally, Zambia issues:
1. Learner's Permit: For individuals learning to drive (K150 fee)
2. International Driving Permit: For foreign travel (K200 fee)
Please note that fees may vary, so it's best to check with the RTSA office for the most up-to-date information.
Class C1 driving license in Zambia
In Zambia, a Class C1 driving license is issued for:
- Light motor vehicles with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) between 2,500 kg and 7,500 kg
- Vehicles designed to carry not more than 16 passengers, including the driver
- Light goods vehicles with a GVM not exceeding 7,500 kg
- Vehicles towing a trailer with a GVM not exceeding 750 kg
Requirements for a Class C1 license:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Hold a valid Class C license or a valid foreign equivalent
- Pass a vision test
- Pass a practical driving test in a Class C1 vehicle
- Pay the required fee (K600)
Privileges of a Class C1 license:
- Drive light motor vehicles with a GVM between 2,500 kg and 7,500 kg
- Tow a trailer with a GVM not exceeding 750 kg
- Drive vehicles designed to carry not more than 16 passengers, including the driver
Note:
- A Class C1 license is a step up from a Class C license, allowing drivers to operate slightly heavier vehicles.
- Drivers with a Class C1 license can also drive vehicles covered by a Class C license.
- Fees and requirements may vary, so it's best to check with the RTSA office for the most up-to-date information.
International Driving Permit Zambia
An International Driving Permit (IDP) in Zambia is a document that allows visitors to drive in Zambia using their foreign driver's license. Here are the details:
Eligibility:
- Hold a valid foreign driver's license
- Be at least 18 years old
- Not be a Zambian resident
Application:
- Visit the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) office
- Fill out the application form
- Provide your foreign driver's license
- Pay the required fee (K200)
- Provide a valid passport
Validity:
- An IDP is valid for 6 months from the date of issue
- Can be renewed for an additional 6 months
Privileges:
- Drive in Zambia using your foreign driver's license
- Rent and drive vehicles in Zambia
Important Notes:
- An IDP is not a standalone document; you must carry your foreign driver's license with you
- An IDP is not valid for commercial driving or driving heavy goods vehicles
- Ensure your foreign driver's license is valid for the duration of your stay in Zambia
RTSA Offices:
- Lusaka: +260 211 284 111
- Kitwe: +260 212 211 111
- Ndola: +260 212 610 111
Please check with the RTSA office for the most up-to-date information on fees and requirements.
