Trinidad Driving

Overview

In Trinidad and Tobago, the Licensing Division of the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure runs the driver's licence process. A new driver first gets a provisional (learner's) permit, then passes a computerised regulations exam, then a driving exam, and finally pays for and collects the Driver's Licence. This page covers the regulations exam and the steps around it, taken from the ministry's undated guide to the online provisional permit system. The guide does not state the number of questions or the pass mark, so those are left out. This page is thin for that reason.

Who can apply

For a provisional permit you must:

• be at least 17 for classes 1, 2 and 3, and at least 21 for classes 4, 5, 6 and 7, where you must also hold a valid Driver's Licence of class 3 or higher;

• be a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago or have recognised immigration status as a resident;

• have no prior offences that prevent you from getting a permit.

First-time drivers can apply for class 1 (motorcycle), class 2 (wheel tractor) or class 3 (light motor vehicle). The other classes are heavy motor vehicles (4), extra heavy motor vehicles (5), omnibuses (6) and other specialty vehicles (7).

How the exams work

1. Apply online for the provisional permit. The Licensing Division reviews it and emails you an approval. Then you book an appointment to pay for and collect the permit, bringing the original documents.

2. A provisional permit is valid for one year.

3. Book the regulations exam for a date at least 10 calendar days after the permit is issued. You can book it online and take it at the site of your choice.

4. If you pass, book the driving exam for at least 21 calendar days after passing the regulations exam.

5. After the driving exam, pay for and collect your Driver's Licence.

Appointments to retake a failed regulations or driving exam can be booked no earlier than 7 calendar days after the failed attempt.

The ministry's Driving Permits page says the Licensing Division is moving to online applications, online scheduling for the exams, and secure access to the computerised regulations exam with a PIN and biometric system.

Fees

The guide lists these fees in Trinidad and Tobago dollars, though it does not state the date they were set:

The guide says the provisional permit fee covers the permit and the first attempt at the regulations exam for that class. The amount itself could not be read reliably in the copy used here.

Documents

You need proof of address in your name from within three months, a scanned colour photo with a white background taken in the last three months, a form of ID, the application form made by the online system, and a medical form where the guide requires one. First-time applicants show a passport only, or a national ID with a birth certificate. Existing licence holders show the licence.

Preparation tips

• Buy the regulations study guide from the Licensing Division and study it before booking.

• Schedule the driving exam only once you have passed regulations, as the 21-day wait is built into the booking system.