What You Need to Know Before You Start

A Ghana driver's license is issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), a government agency that handles all driving permits in the country. The process involves a written test, a practical driving test, and a medical examination. You cannot skip any of these steps, and you must pass each one before moving to the next.

The entire process typically takes between two to four weeks from the day you submit your documents, though this varies depending on how quickly you schedule your medical exam and driving tests. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you will need to pay the fee again and wait for another testing slot.

You must be at least 18 years old to hold a Ghana driver's license. If you already hold a valid license from another country, you may be able to exchange it for a Ghana license without taking the tests, but the DVLA must verify that your home country has a reciprocal agreement with Ghana.

Key Takeaways

  • You must obtain a medical certificate from an approved doctor before you can sit for any driving test.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and vehicle safety; you must score at least 70 percent to pass.
  • The practical driving test is conducted by a DVLA examiner and lasts approximately 30 minutes on actual roads.
  • You will need your birth certificate, passport, or national ID card, plus proof of residence and a medical certificate to complete your license.
  • The DVLA has regional offices in major cities; you must explore at the office that covers your area of residence.

Step 1: Get a Medical Certificate from an Approved Doctor

Before you can sit for either the written or practical test, you must obtain a medical certificate from a doctor approved by the DVLA. This certificate confirms that you are physically and mentally fit to drive. The doctor will check your eyesight, hearing, and general health, and will ask about any medical conditions that might affect your ability to drive safely.

You can find a list of approved medical examiners on the DVLA website or by visiting your nearest DVLA office. The medical examination costs money, but the amount varies by doctor. Keep the original certificate; you will need to submit it with your process. The certificate is usually valid for one year from the date it is issued.

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents

You will need to bring several documents when you visit the DVLA office to explore. These include your birth certificate, passport, or national ID card (one form of identification is sufficient). You will also need proof of residence, such as a utility bill, tenancy agreement, or a letter from your landlord or employer stating your address.

Bring the medical certificate you obtained in Step 1. You will also need to provide your contact information, including a phone number and email address if you have one. Some DVLA offices may request additional documents depending on your circumstances, so it is wise to call ahead and confirm what you need to bring.

Step 3: Complete the Written Test

The written test covers Ghana's traffic laws, road signs, vehicle safety, and safe driving practices. The test is conducted on a computer at the DVLA office and typically contains 50 multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 70 percent to pass, which means you need to answer at least 35 questions correctly.

You will have a set amount of time to complete the test, usually around one hour. The questions are in English. If you fail the written test, you can retake it after paying the fee again, but you will need to wait for the next available testing date, which may be several days or weeks away depending on how busy the office is.

Step 4: Schedule and Complete the Practical Driving Test

Once you pass the written test, you can schedule your practical driving test. This test is conducted by a DVLA examiner who will observe you driving on actual roads for approximately 30 minutes. The examiner will assess your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, respond to hazards, and drive safely in different road conditions.

You must bring a vehicle to the test, and it must be roadworthy and insured. Some people use their own car, while others arrange to use a vehicle from a driving school. The examiner will check the vehicle's condition before the test begins. If the vehicle is unsafe, the test will not proceed and you will need to reschedule with a different vehicle.

During the test, the examiner will give you directions and observe how you respond to traffic situations. Common reasons people fail include not checking mirrors, not signaling properly, speeding, or not stopping at traffic lights. If you fail, you can retake the test after paying the fee again.

Step 5: Pay Fees and Receive Your License

Once you pass both the written and practical tests, you will pay the licensing fee at the DVLA office. The fee covers the cost of producing your license card. The amount varies depending on the type of license you are obtaining and whether you are a first-time applicant or renewing an existing license.

After you pay the fee, the DVLA will take your photograph and fingerprints for the license card. Your license will be printed and issued to you on the same day or within a few days, depending on the office's workload. The license is valid for five years from the date it is issued, after which you will need to renew it.

What Happens If You Hold a License from Another Country

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another country, you may be able to exchange it for a Ghana license without taking the written and practical tests. However, this depends on whether your home country has a reciprocal agreement with Ghana. Not all countries have such agreements, so you will need to check with the DVLA first.

To exchange a foreign license, you will still need to provide your medical certificate, proof of identity, and proof of residence. You will also need to submit your original foreign license to the DVLA. The DVLA will verify the authenticity of your license with your home country's licensing authority before issuing a Ghana license. This verification process can take several weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Ghana with an international driving permit?

An international driving permit is not a substitute for a Ghana driver's license. You can drive temporarily on an international permit if you are a visitor, but if you are a resident of Ghana or plan to stay for an extended period, you must obtain a Ghana license. The rules about who can drive on an international permit vary, so check with the DVLA or your embassy for your specific situation.

What if I fail the practical driving test?

You can retake the practical test after paying the fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. However, you will need to wait for the next available testing slot, which may take several days or weeks. Some people take additional driving lessons between attempts to improve their skills.

How long does a Ghana driver's license last?

A Ghana driver's license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. After five years, you will need to renew it. Renewal requires a new medical certificate and payment of a renewal fee, but you do not need to retake the written and practical tests unless the DVLA requires it.

What if my address changes after I get my license?

You should notify the DVLA of any change in your address. Depending on the DVLA's procedures, you may need to update your information in person at a DVLA office or through a written request. Check with your local DVLA office for the specific process in your region.

Can I get a Ghana driver's license if I wear glasses or contact lenses?

Yes, you can. The medical examination will test your eyesight, and if you need corrective lenses to meet the required standard, your license will include a condition stating that you must wear them while driving. You must always wear your glasses or contact lenses when driving if this condition is on your license.