How to Get Your Driver’s Licence in Nicaragua

How difficult is it to get a Nicaraguan driver’s licence?

We’ve heard so many stories over the years about how hard it is to pass all the tests required to get a driver’s licence in Nicaragua.

After completing the process I would say it is necessary to speak at least some Spanish. My Spanish is not fluent by any measure, but I am comfortable communicating in most situations.

You also need to study for the theory test.

As in all things bureaucratic patience and perseverance are important attributes. And you DO need residency.

The Process Day 1

Step 1: Get Your Driver’s Handbook

Most stationary stores (liberias) have the Texto del la Ley No. 431 book available to purchase. The cost is 120 córdobas ($3.68 USD). There are over 300 test questions in the back … so you’ll need study up.

Step 2: Go to the Red Cross

Go to the nearest Red Cross (Cruz Rojo) and let them know you need to be tested for your first driver’s licence. They will give you a slip of paper including their bank account number and the cost of the three tests (blood, vision and psychology) you need to take.

Step 3: Go to the Police Station

Go to the police station in the nearest major city to you and take a photo of the list of payments you need to make for testing and certification.

Take note of the dress requirements for testing. Shorts, flip flops and tank tops are not acceptable attire.

Also note, practical motorcycle tests require a full faced helmet. It was emphatically expressed to me that my Bauer hockey helmet was not sufficient.

TIP: If you can’t read and understand the above list of requirements you probably won’t be able to past the theory test.

Step 4: Go to a Banpro Bank & Pay Up

Go to a Banpro bank and pay for all required tests (Red Cross and police). Hang on to your bank receipts as you’ll need to show them multiple times along the way.

Step 5: Go Back to the Red Cross for Testing

As mentioned earlier there are three tests required — vision, psychological and blood — to get a Nicaraguan driver’s licence.

The psychological test is about 8 pages of simple questions to make sure you are not a complete road rager.

The blood test is to determine your blood type. It — along with your emergency contact information — will be listed on back of your driver’s licence. Great information to have in case you’re in a serious accident. Canada could learn a thing or two from Nicaragua.

Step 6: Register for the Driver’s Education Seminar at the Police Station

The receptionist will direct you to the office for the driver’s education.

At this point the officer will ask to see your Cruz Rojo tests, your receipts for the police tests and your cédula. He or she will enter your information into the computer system so you can book a time to attend the driver’s education seminar.

TIP: If you want to have a chance at getting your driver’s licence in just two days you had best book your appointment for the earliest morning session, which is 8 am.

The Process Day 2 (if all the stars are aligned & you receive your driver’s licence today)

Step 7: Go Back to the Police Station for Your Driver’s Education Seminar

The driver’s education seminar is an hour and a half long. It is not a pass or fail situation, but mandatory nonetheless.

A police officer will talk about your responsibility as a driver. He will also speak a bit about driving hazards such as talking on a cell phone, driving under the influence and speeding.

Step 8: Take Your Theory Examination

If you are like me — and showed up 30 minutes early — this finally pays off for once. In Rivas there are only three computers to do the theory test and the early bird gets the first worm.

You’ll sit down at the computer and enter your cedula number. Then your name will pop up. You’ll have 40 minutes to answer 20 multiple choice questions. You must get 80% correct to pass.

Step 9: Take Your Practical Driving Examination

In my case I was testing for a light vehicle and a motorcycle.

We started with the moto test. The officer will check to see that you have the motorcycle registered. He or she will also check to see that you have valid insurance.

The first skill requirement of the moto test was surprising to me. You have two attempts to kick start your bike. A couple people failed to do so and for them the test was over.

If you successfully start your motorcycle using the kick start the officer will hop on the back of your bike. You’ll drive around town for about ten minutes before making your way back to the station.

The next test was in our Land Cruiser.

Again, the officer checks to see if you have valid registration and insurance. He also checks to see if you have your yearly emissions test and mechanical inspection.

Then you drive around for about ten minutes. If you are used to driving in Nicaragua — keep your hands at 10 and 2 and obey the laws — you should be fine.

As we pulled back into the parking lot the office the officer told me I passed. I was ready for the next step.

Step 10: Get a Photocopy of Your Cédula

Go to the nearest copy shop and get a photocopy of your cédula.

Step 11: Go to the Reception Area to Get Your Licence

You’ll provide your cédula, a copy of your cédula and all your payment slips to the receptionist. You will also need to provide an emergency contact name and number. Next you’ll have your picture taken and a few minutes later your licence is printed and in your hand!

Step 12: Celebrate & Show Off Your New Acquisition

How Much Does It Cost To Get a Driver’s Licence in Nicaragua?

Total cost to obtain my Category 1, 2 & 3 licence was $44 USD. It is valid for 5 years.

NOTES:
Category 1: Covers motorcycles & quads up to 125 ccs
Category 2: Covers motorcycles & quads over 125 ccs
Category 3: Covers vehicles up to 3 1/3 tons