In Somalia a driving license is an important requirement for anyone who wants to legally drive in the country. Nevertheless, it is essential to clarify the procedure and the impact of driving license fees as well as demand for individual mode of transportation and job options in logistics49;522. Updated Driving License Fees in Somalia | Requirements 2023 This guide strives to provides insight into the driving license fee in Somalia, including the different categories, requirements, and costs involved.
Categories of Driving Licenses in Somalia
There are various types of Somalia driving licenses available on the basis of the vehicle type and the purpose of use. The main categories include:
MS, Moto-Revolution (Kuch Khas Khnatain Plz See Para P5):
For motorcycles and three-wheeled motor vehicles.
Age requirement: 18+
Full Light Vehicle License (Cat B)
But for cars and light trucks with an upper weight limit.
Age of eligibility: 18 years.
Heavy-Vehicle Driver’s License (Category C):
Trucks and buses over weight limits
Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years old.
Professional/Commercial License (D Grade):
This is needed for those driving commercial vehicles such as cabs, buses, and delivery trucks.
This will require additional training and certification
Driving License Fee Structure in Somalia (2025 Update)
In Somalia, driving license fees are different based on the category and expiry years. The enhanced fee structure upto 2025 is as under:
Learner’s Permit Cost: $10 – $25 (six-month validity)
A Category (Motorcycles): USD 35 – USD 55
B Category (Light Vehicles): $55 $75
C Category (Heavy Vehicles): 85$ – 130$
D Category (Professional License): 110 USD — 160 USD
Renewal and reissuing penalty fees for late renewals may incur additional charges.
Requirements for Obtaining a Driving License
Requirements:To apply in Somalia to get a driving license, you must meet the following requirements:
Age Requirement: Minimum age for the requested license class.
National ID / Passport: Upload a national ID or passport.
Medical Fitness Certificate: Attach certificate for physical and mental fitness from an authorized medical centre.
Residency Verification: Provide proof of residence.
Training Completion Certificate.
Written and Practice Tests: Successfully complete both a theoretical and a practical driving test, administrated by the traffic department.
License Renewal and Additional Costs (2025 Update)
The validity of driving licenses in Somalia is usually for between 1 to 5 years before they need to be renewed. Fees for renewal depend on the category and duration of the license. Additional costs may include:
Fee for License Renewal: USD 25 — USD 55
Late Renewal Penalty: USD 15 — USD 35 per month
Lost or Damaged Duplicate License : USD 30 – USD 55
Each License Class Change: USD 60 — USD 110
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Somali citizens who want to drive outside of Somalia should obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). IDP translates national driving license in different languages and it is widely accepted in most of the countries. IDP: Requirements and costs: Requirements:
Application Fee: $50 — $80
National Driving License: Must have a valid national driving license (Somali driving license).
Passport-size Photos: Typically 2 recent photographs.
Processing Period: 1 to 2 weeks usually.
Period of Validity: issued by the relevant authority, – from 1 to 3 years.
How to Apply for a Driving License in Somalia
Most people will now not have the option to sit in their car whilst in the Licensing office.
Submit the application — Fill out the driving license form.
Medical Examination: Get a physical health certificate by a Government authorized Health Centre.
Pass the Driving School: Join a government certified driving school
Testing: Take both theoretical and practical tests
No. Fee Payment: Pay the required fees as per the category.
Issue Driving License: The driving license is then issued and received within a few weeks upon verification.
Conclusion
A driving license in Somalia is a series of requirements and fees to obtain. Whether you are applying for a new license or renewing an existing one, it is crucial to be aware of the relevant fees and rules. Being familiar with fee structure and process updated till October 2023 will help applicants obviate any hassles while applying for their driving license.
