Whether you're a first-time applicant, converting a foreign licence, or renewing an expired one, this guide covers every step of the driver's licence process in Guyana. The Licence Revenue Office (LRO) of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is the only agency authorized to register drivers and issue licences in Guyana.
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Driver's Licence
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Driver's Licence Overview
The Guyana driver's licence is issued by the Licence Revenue Office of the GRA. It is a plastic card licence valid for 5 years and authorizes the holder to drive specific categories of vehicles on Guyana's roads. Guyana drives on the left-hand side of the road.
Licence Categories
Minimum Age
The minimum age to apply for a provisional licence in Guyana is 16 years. Applicants under 18 may require parental or guardian consent. You must be at least 18 to hold a full driver's licence for most categories.
Step 1: Getting a Provisional Licence
Before you can learn to drive or take any tests, you must obtain a provisional (learner's) licence from the GRA. This authorizes you to drive under supervision while learning.
Provisional Licence Requirements
Provisional Licence Rules
A provisional licence is valid for 3 months and can be renewed up to 3 times. While driving with a provisional licence, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver. You must display "L" plates on the front and rear of the vehicle. Driving alone on a provisional licence is an offence.
Step 2: Written (Theoretical) Test
All new applicants must pass the Learner Drivers' Theoretical Programme before proceeding to the practical road test. The written exam tests your knowledge of Guyana's road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices.
Purchase the Learner Driver Package
Purchase the learner driver package, which includes the programme manual and the Guyana Road Traffic Code. These materials are essential for passing the exam.
Study the Material
Study the programme manual and Road Traffic Code thoroughly. Focus on road signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, traffic signals, and safe driving practices. Online practice quizzes are available to help you prepare.
Take the Electronic Exam
The theoretical exam is conducted electronically at the Felix Austin Police College in Eve Leary, Georgetown. Register for the next available exam session through the Guyana Police Force.
Exam Tips
The exam is multiple-choice and conducted on a computer. If you fail, you can retake the exam after one month for a fee of GYD $1,000. Study the road signs thoroughly - they make up a significant portion of the exam questions.
Step 3: Road (Practical) Test
After passing the written test, you must pass a practical road test to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. The test is administered by the Guyana Police Force.
Practice Driving
Practice driving with a fully licensed driver or attend a registered driving school. You must use a vehicle appropriate for the licence category you are applying for. Ensure you are comfortable with all basic driving manoeuvres.
Schedule Your Road Test
Schedule your practical driving test through the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department. You will be assigned a date and location for your test.
Take the Test
Arrive at the test location with your provisional licence, a suitable vehicle in good condition, and a licensed driver. The examiner will test your ability to start, stop, reverse, turn, park, and navigate traffic safely.
Road Test Assessment Areas
Automatic Fail Conditions
You will automatically fail the road test if you: cause a dangerous situation, fail to stop at a red light or stop sign, exceed the speed limit, drive on the wrong side of the road, or require the examiner to intervene to prevent an accident. If you fail, you must wait before retaking the test.
Step 4: Applying for Your Full Licence
Once you have passed both the written and road tests, you can apply for your full driver's licence at the GRA Licence Revenue Office.
Full Licence Application Documents
Submit Documents
Present all documents to the Licence Revenue Officer. They will verify your details and test pass certificates.
Photo & Signature Capture
Your photograph will be taken and you will affix your signature digitally. These will appear on your plastic card licence.
Pay Fee & Collect Receipt
Pay the GYD $4,500 fee at the cashier. Keep your receipt - you will need it to collect your licence. Payment can be made electronically or in cash.
Collect Your Licence
Collect your plastic card driver's licence from the Dispatch Clerk. Verify that all information on the card is correct before leaving.
Licence Renewal
A Guyanese driver's licence is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. You should renew it at least 3 months before it expires. The GRA does not send renewal reminders, so keep track of your expiration date.
Renewal Requirements (Plastic Card Holders)
Simplified Renewal
If you hold the plastic card licence, the GRA does not require a National ID Card, passport-sized photograph, or copies thereof for renewal. Simply bring your old card and the completed form. This streamlined process applies only to plastic card licence holders.
Driving with an Expired Licence
Driving with an expired licence is illegal and may result in fines or penalties. If your licence has been expired for an extended period, you may need to undergo re-testing before a renewal can be processed. Always renew before expiration.
Foreign Licence Conversion
Visitors to Guyana can use their valid foreign driver's licence for short stays. For longer stays or if you become a resident, you may need to convert your foreign licence to a Guyanese one.
Foreign Licence Conversion Requirements
CARICOM Licence Holders
Holders of valid CARICOM member state driver's licences may have a simplified conversion process. Contact the GRA Licence Revenue Office for current reciprocity arrangements.
Fees
| Service | Fee (GYD) | Fee (USD approx.) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provisional Licence | $1,500 | ~$7 | 3 months (renewable 3 times) |
| Written Test Retake | $1,000 | ~$5 | Per attempt |
| New Driver's Licence | $4,500 | ~$22 | 5 years |
| Licence Renewal | $4,500 | ~$22 | 5 years |
| Foreign Licence Conversion | $4,500 | ~$22 | 5 years |
| Duplicate/Replacement Licence | $4,500 | ~$22 | Remainder of original validity |
Payment Methods
Fees can be paid in cash (GYD) at the GRA cashier or electronically. Always obtain and keep your receipt as you will need it to collect your licence.
Where to Apply
Georgetown - Main Offices
GRA Headquarters
Licence Revenue Office
Regional GRA Offices
New Amsterdam
Corriverton
Bartica
Lethem
Parika
Written Test Location
Felix Austin Police College
Need a TIN for Your Licence Application?
A TIN is required for most GRA transactions. If you don't have one yet, check out our TIN registration guide.
TIN Registration GuideFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a Guyana driver's licence cost?
A new driver's licence costs GYD $4,500 (approximately USD $22). The provisional licence costs GYD $1,500. Renewal also costs GYD $4,500. The licence is valid for 5 years.
How long is a Guyana driver's licence valid?
A Guyanese driver's licence is valid for 5 years from the date of issue. Renew it at least 3 months before expiration. The GRA does not send reminders.
What do I need to renew my licence?
For plastic card licence holders: just your old plastic card licence and a completed application form. No ID card or new photograph is required. Pay the GYD $4,500 renewal fee and collect your new licence.
Where do I take the written driving test?
The theoretical exam is conducted electronically at the Felix Austin Police College, Eve Leary, Georgetown. Contact the Guyana Police Force to register for the next available exam session.
What if I fail the written or road test?
If you fail the written test, you can retake it after one month for a fee of GYD $1,000. If you fail the road test, you will need to schedule another test and continue practicing. There is no limit on the number of retakes.
Can I drive in Guyana with a foreign licence?
Visitors can use their valid foreign driver's licence for short-term stays. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your foreign licence. For longer stays or residency, you should convert to a Guyanese licence.
Which side of the road does Guyana drive on?
Guyana drives on the left-hand side of the road, following British convention. Vehicles have right-hand drive (steering wheel on the right side). This is important to know if you are accustomed to driving on the right.
How long does the entire licence process take?
From provisional licence to full licence typically takes 1-3 months, depending on how quickly you pass the written and road tests and how much practice you need. The provisional licence is valid for 3 months and can be renewed up to 3 times.
Do I need a TIN to get a driver's licence?
Yes, a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is generally required for GRA transactions. If you don't have one, you can apply at any GRA office. See our TIN Registration Guide for details.
Last updated: February 12, 2026. Driver's licence requirements, fees, and procedures may change. Always verify current requirements with the Guyana Revenue Authority or the Guyana Police Force before applying. For all government services, visit our Government Services hub.