License means permission to do something, especially formal permission from a government or other authority. The word often refers to the proof of that permission, such as a card or certificate.
- Apply for authority to operate a motor vehicle on the roads of Botswana.
- Foreign nationals and holders of driving licenses issued by foreign countries, who are residents in Botswana, must apply for the Botswana driving license, by undertaking the foreign license conversion process.
- SADC nationals do not need to convert their driving licenses from their home country.
- Visitors may use driving licenses from their home country for a maximum of 90 days in any calendar year. Alternatively, visitors may use their international driving permit for the life of that permit.
- The Botswana driving license card is valid for five (5) years.
Who is eligible?
All citizens and residents, or visitors with exemption certificates, who meet the below-age criteria may apply for a Botswana driving license.
| Class of license | Minimum age requirements |
| F (Tractor) | 16 years |
| A1 and A (motorcycle)B and EB (light motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass of 3500 kg or less)H (earth-moving industrial equipment) | 18 years |
| C1, C, EC1, and EC (heavy motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass of more than 3500 kg) | 21 years |
How do I get this service?
- Download and complete the Application for a Botswana Driving license/permit form available at the Enquiries Desk at any of the offices of the Department of Road Transport and Safety.
- Applicants 65 years or older or applying for a class C, C1, EC, or EC1 license should download and complete the Health Declaration form (DL31). Valid for 30 days.
- Go to the eye screening office for an eye examination. In the case of applicants with eyesight challenges, the Registration and Licensing Officer would refer them to be seen by an external eye specialist for further testing. Only after the external eye specialist recommends that the driving license application process be continued should the applicants return to the Registration and Licensing Officer with the results and recommendations.
- Submit completed documents to the Registration and Licensing Officer.
- Pay and book the theory test at the nearest DRTS office indicating the preferred method of testing (electronic or manual).
- Based on the instructions received for chosen method, undergo the test at the appointed time and venue. The pass mark for the theory test is 26 out of 30 for classes A, B, F, and H, and 39 out of 45 for classes C, C1, EB, EC, and EC1. Unsuccessful applicants must reapply for the theory test only after 14 days have elapsed.
- If successful, submit your results and supporting documents to the Licensing officer to apply for the Provisional Learner’s license and pay the required fee.
- When ready the applicant must pay and book for a practical test (yard and road) at the nearest DRTS office with all documents (Provisional Learner’s Licence, theory test results, and eye screening results).
- Undertake the two-step practical test (yard and road), in that order, where candidates are only allowed to do the road test after successful completion of the yard portion.
- If successful, pay the required fee at the nearest DRTS office to be issued the driving license.
What supporting documents are required?
- Certified copy of National Identify card (Omang)
- Certified copy of Passport
- Certified copy of Exemption certificate or Residence and Work Permit
- Refugee Identification Card (Refugees)
- 2 passport sized photos
How long will this service take?
2 months
How much does it cost?
The fees, payable in cash or electronic payments are as follows:
| ITEM | COST |
| Theory Test | BWP52.00 |
| Question Booklet | BWP39.00 – Classes A1, B, EB, and F |
| BWP65.00 – Classes C, C1, EC and EC1 | |
| Provisional Learner’s Licence | BWP39.00 |
| Practical Test (Yard and Road) | BWP52.00 |
| Driver’s Licence | BWP91.00 |
Where can I obtain this service?
Department of Road Transport and Safety Offices (DRTS) across the country.
Opening hours are from 07:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, except on public holidays.
Where can I get more information on this Service
Department of Road Transport and Safety
Tshomarelo House
Botswana Savings Bank Building
Private Bag 0054
Gaborone
Botswana
Tel. (267) 368-8600
Fax. (267) 397-1117/1114
Toll Free Number : 17779
Email: mtcpro@gov.bw
Do you need an international driver’s Licence for Botswana?
To drive in Botswana, you must be at least 18 years old (may vary by car category) and have held your license for 1 year. Drivers under the age of 22 may incur a young driver surcharge. You will also require an international driver’s license.
What are the basic requirements for a driver’s license?
What are the requirements?
- Must be at least 17 years old.
- Duly accomplished APL Form.
- One photocopy and original LTO-accredited medical certificate.
- Original and one photocopy of Practical Driving Course (PDC)
- Original valid student permit.
- For minors, a notarized parental or guardian’s consent with a valid government ID.
How old do you have to be to get a driver’s license in Botswana?
BWgovernment. This is a legal document issued by the Department of Road Transport and Safety in accordance with the Road Traffic Act, which permits one to drive. This service is offered to both citizens and non-citizens who are 18 years and above.
How to apply for an international driver’s license in Botswana?
In order to access this service, applicants must follow the following steps.
- Download and complete the Botswana Driving Licence Application form (DL1).
- Take the completed form along with supporting documents (listed below) to eye screening office and undergo eye screening.