Getting a Driver's License in the Dominican Republic

Sometimes when you're new to a country a task like getting your driver's license can make you feel like you're 16 years old again trying to pass your driver's test. Here's an overview of the process of getting your driver's license in the Dominican Republic.

Requirements for a Foreigner to Legally Drive in the Dominican Republic

In the Dominican Republic, foreigners can use their home country's driver's license for up to 90 days after arrival. After this period, they are required to obtain a Dominican driver's license. The requirements do not vary based on the city, state, or region. Here's a detailed process to obtain a local driver's license:

Process to Obtain a Dominican Driver's License

• Valid Residency: The foreigner must have a valid Dominican residency. Tourist visas are not accepted for this process.

• Gather Required Documents: The following documents are required for the application:

  • Valid passport with the latest entry stamp
  • Valid Dominican residency card
  • Valid driver's license from the home country
  • Blood type certificate (can be obtained from a clinical laboratory)

• Translation: If the home country's driver's license is not in Spanish, it must be translated by a certified translator or a lawyer in the Dominican Republic.

• Legalization: The driver's license must be legalized by either the Dominican consulate in the home country or by the corresponding foreign consulate in the Dominican Republic.

• Application: Submit the application at the Instituto Nacional de Tránsito y Transporte Terrestre (INTRANT) offices. The applicant will need to fill out a form and submit the gathered documents.

• Medical Exam: Undergo a medical exam at an authorized clinic. The exam includes vision and hearing tests.

• Written and Practical Exam: Depending on the inspector, the applicant might need to take a written and practical driving exam. However, this is not always required if the applicant has a valid foreign driver's license.

• Payment: Pay the corresponding fee for the driver's license.

• Pick-up: Once the license is processed, the applicant can pick it up at the INTRANT offices.

It's recommended to start the process well before the 90-day period expires to avoid any inconveniences.