In Nigeria, driving without a legitimate driver’s license is viewed as unlawful and potentially criminal. The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) confers the privilege to operate an automobile by issuing this legal documentation known as a driver’s license.

Individuals who have reached 18 years of age are eligible to obtain one. Additionally, specific guidelines exist alongside additional requirements needed prior to securing your own driver license.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a driver license in Nigeria, you must meet certain criteria set forth by the FRSC. Here are the general eligibility requirements:

1. Age: You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a driver license.
2. Driving School Certificate: You must have completed a driving course at an FRSC-accredited driving school.
3. Eye Test Certificate: You must obtain an eye test certificate from an FRSC-accredited clinic.
4. National Identification Number (NIN): You will need to provide your NIN as part of the application process.
5. VIO Test Certificate: You must pass the Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) driving test and obtain a VIO test certificate.
6. Proof of Payment: You will need to provide proof of payment for the driver license/learner’s permit.

Getting Your Driver’s License Online

If you prefer the convenience of applying for your driver’s license online, follow these steps:

1. Enroll and Graduate from an FRSC-Accredited Driving School: Begin by enrolling in a driving school accredited by the FRSC. Complete the necessary training and graduate from the program.
2. Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) Driving Test: Take and pass the VIO driving test, which will assess your knowledge of road signs and defensive driving techniques.
3. Certificate of Proficiency: Obtain a certificate of proficiency from the VIO, which serves as evidence that you have successfully completed the required training.
4. Visit FRSC’s Driver’s License Website: Go to the official website of the FRSC’s driver’s license application portal (https://www.nigeriadriverslicence.org/) and fill out the application form with accurate details.
5. Payment: Make the necessary payment for the driver’s license online or at a designated bank. Follow the instructions provided on the website to complete the payment process.
6. Acknowledgment Slip: After payment confirmation, print out the acknowledgment slip, which serves as proof of payment.
7. Biometrics Capturing: Visit the nearest Driver’s License Center (DLC) to have your biometrics captured by an FRSC officer. This includes fingerprint impressions and facial recognition.
8. Temporary Driver License: Once your biometrics have been captured, you will be issued a temporary driver license that is valid for 60 days.
9. Original Driver License: Return to the DLC after 60 days to collect your original driver’s license.

Getting Your Driver’s License Physically

If you prefer to go through the physical application process, follow these steps:

1. Driver License Application Form: Visit the nearest Driver License Center (DLC) and fill out the driver’s license application form. Provide accurate information, ensuring there are no errors.
2. Submission and Verification: Submit the application form along with any required supporting documents. The DLC will verify the information provided.
3. Biometrics Capturing: Undergo biometrics capturing, including fingerprint impressions and facial recognition, at the DLC.
4. Eye Test: Take the eye test at the DLC to assess your visual ability.
5. Temporary Driver License: Upon successful completion of the application process, you will be issued a temporary driver license valid for 60 days.
6. Original Driver License: Return to the DLC after 60 days to collect your original driver’s license.

Cost and Validity of the Driver’s License

The cost and validity of a driver’s license in Nigeria depend on various factors, including the duration and category of the license. Generally, the cost ranges from N12,000 for a three-year license to N15,000 for a five-year license. It is important to note that these fees may vary, and it is advisable to check with the FRSC for the most accurate information. Additionally, the validity of the license will depend on the category applied for, with options for three-year or five-year validity periods.

Conclusion

Having a valid driver’s license is not only a legal requirement but also crucial for road safety. Obtaining a driver’s license ensures that you have undergone the necessary training and possess the skills to drive safely on Nigerian roads.

It also serves as proof of identification and can be required in various situations, such as renting a car or applying for auto insurance.

To ensure continuous compliance with the law, it is necessary to renew your driver’s license before it expires. Get all necessary information from our blog post on how to renew your driver’s license.