How to Obtain a Driver’s License in Zambia (2025 Guide)
A Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
Acquiring a driver’s license in Zambia is a structured process overseen by the Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA). Whether you’re a new driver, renewing an existing license, or converting a foreign one, this comprehensive guide will walk you through each step.
1. Enroll in an Approved Driving School
Before applying for a provisional license, it’s advisable to enroll in a licensed driving school. These institutions provide essential training to prepare you for the theory and practical tests administered by RTSA.
2. Obtain a Provisional Driving License
A provisional license allows you to learn driving under supervision. Requirements include:
- Minimum age: 18 years for motor vehicles, 16 years for motorcycles.
- Valid National Registration Card (NRC) or passport.
- Medical certificate from a government hospital.
- Passing a theory test (administered at no fee).
- Payment of K117.00 for the provisional license.
3. Undergo Practical Driving Test
After gaining sufficient driving experience, schedule a practical test within the 3-month validity of your provisional license. Requirements:
- Valid provisional license.
- Payment of K87.00 for the practical test.
Upon passing, you can proceed to obtain your full driver’s license.
4. Acquire Full Driver’s License
After successfully completing the practical test, apply for your full driver’s license. Requirements:
- Valid NRC or passport.
- Medical certificate.
- Payment of K144.00 for license printing.
Your license will specify the class of vehicle you’re authorized to operate.
5. Conversion of Foreign Driver’s License
If you possess a valid foreign driver’s license, you can convert it to a Zambian one. Requirements:
- Valid foreign driver’s license.
- Authentication from the issuing authority or embassy.
- Valid NRC or passport.
- Roadworthy vehicle for the class applied.
- Payment of K348.00.
This process ensures your foreign license is recognized legally in Zambia.
6. Renewal and Replacement of Driver’s License
- Renewal: For licenses nearing expiration, submit your NRC or passport, existing driver’s license, and pay K312.00.
- Renewal of Expired License: If your license has expired, the fee is K398.00.
- Replacement of Lost License: Provide a police report, general affidavit, NRC or passport, and pay K144.00.
- Replacement of Defaced License: Submit the defaced license, police report, and pay K144.00.
Ensure timely renewals to avoid penalties.
7. Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Endorsements
For those intending to operate commercial vehicles, additional endorsements are required. General requirements:
- Minimum age: 25 years.
- Valid NRC or passport.
- Medical certificate from a government facility.
- Minimum of 2 years driving experience.
- Payment of K117.00 for the provisional license, K87.00 for the practical test, and K364.00 for license printing.
Specific endorsements are available for taxis, buses, goods vehicles, and hazardous materials transport.
8. International Driving Permit (IDP)
If you plan to drive internationally, obtaining an IDP is essential. Requirements:
- Valid Zambian driver’s license.
- Valid passport.
- Two passport-sized photos.
- Payment of K81.00.
The IDP translates your license into multiple languages, facilitating driving in over 150 countries.
Contact Information
For further assistance:
- RTSA Headquarters: Road Safety House, Dedan Kimathi Road, Plot No. 6956, P.O Box 32167, Lusaka.
- Phone: +260 955 983 983
- WhatsApp: +260 96 5429499
- Email: [email protected]rtsa.org
- Website: www.rtsa.org.zm
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