Guides · Papua New Guinea

Driving licence renewal in Papua New Guinea

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Road Traffic Authority (RTA).

Renewing a driving licence in Papua New Guinea typically involves visiting a Road Traffic Authority (RTA) office, completing an application, undergoing a vision test, and paying the applicable fee. The process is generally straightforward for valid licences.

Your timing

It is advisable to begin the renewal process several weeks before a licence's expiry date. This allows ample time to gather necessary documents, account for potential processing delays, and schedule any required visits to RTA offices or testing facilities. Planning ahead helps ensure continuous legal driving status.

Start 14 days ahead

This accounts for potential travel to an RTA office, processing times, and any unexpected requirements like re-tests if a licence has been expired for an extended period.

The process

  1. 1Confirm the expiry date of the current driving licence.
  2. 2Visit a Road Traffic Authority (RTA) office or a designated RTA agent.
  3. 3Obtain and complete the driving licence renewal application form.
  4. 4Undergo a vision test, which is often conducted on-site or by an approved medical professional.
  5. 5Submit the completed application form, current driving licence, and any other required supporting documents.
  6. 6Pay the prescribed renewal fee.
  7. 7Receive a temporary licence or be advised when the renewed licence can be collected.

What to bring

  • Current driving licence
  • Proof of identity (e.g., National ID card, passport)
  • Completed application form (available at RTA offices)
  • Proof of address (if required, confirm with RTA)
  • Medical certificate or vision test results (if applicable or for certain licence classes, confirm with RTA)

Who handles it

Road Traffic Authority (RTA)

https://rta.gov.pg/

Driving licence renewal fees in Papua New Guinea vary depending on the licence class and validity period (e.g., 1-year or 5-year renewal). Current fee schedules should be confirmed directly with the Road Traffic Authority (RTA) or on their official website.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Expired licences may incur additional fees or require a re-test, especially if expired for an extended period.
  • Ensure all submitted documents are valid and original, as copies may not be accepted without verification.
  • Processing times can vary, so it's advisable to renew in advance of the expiry date.
  • The requirements and fees can be subject to change; always confirm the latest information with the RTA.

Sources

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