Types of Driving Licenses in Nigeria
Driving licenses are categorized into various classes to regulate the operation of different types of vehicles. Each class specifies the type of vehicle a holder is permitted to drive, ensuring that drivers possess the necessary skills and qualifications for their specific vehicle type. Below are the ten classes of driving licenses recognized in Nigeria:
Class - Description
A Motorcycle
B Motor vehicles with a gross weight of less than 3 tonnes (excluding motorcycles, taxis, stage carriages, or omnibuses)
C Motor vehicles with a gross weight of less than 3 tonnes (excluding motorcycles)
D Motor vehicles excluding motorcycles, taxis, stage carriages, or omnibuses, but not including articulated vehicles that draw a trailer
E Motor vehicles excluding motorcycles or articulated vehicles
F Agricultural machines and tractors
G Articulated vehicles (trucks and similar vehicles)
H Earth-moving vehicles (heavy machinery for construction)
J Special category for physically handicapped individuals
V Convoy driving (for those who drive senior government or political office holders)
Class - Description
A Motorcycle
B Motor vehicles with a gross weight of less than 3 tonnes (excluding motorcycles, taxis, stage carriages, or omnibuses)
C Motor vehicles with a gross weight of less than 3 tonnes (excluding motorcycles)
D Motor vehicles excluding motorcycles, taxis, stage carriages, or omnibuses, but not including articulated vehicles that draw a trailer
E Motor vehicles excluding motorcycles or articulated vehicles
F Agricultural machines and tractors
G Articulated vehicles (trucks and similar vehicles)
H Earth-moving vehicles (heavy machinery for construction)
J Special category for physically handicapped individuals
V Convoy driving (for those who drive senior government or political office holders)
Detailed Class Descriptions
- Class A: This license is specifically for motorcycle operators. It ensures that riders have the necessary training and awareness to operate two-wheeled vehicles safely.
- Class B: Designed for lighter motor vehicles, this class excludes taxis and larger passenger vehicles. It is suitable for personal cars and small vans.
- Class C: Similar to Class B but focuses solely on motor vehicles under three tonnes without the exclusion criteria of taxis and buses.
- Class D: This license covers a broader range of motor vehicles but excludes articulated trucks and trailers, ensuring that drivers are qualified for standard passenger and commercial vehicles.
- Class E: This class is intended for drivers of heavier motor vehicles that do not fall under articulated or motorcycle categories.
- Class F: Primarily issued to farmers or individuals operating agricultural machinery, this license allows the use of tractors and other farming equipment.
- Class G: For drivers of articulated vehicles, such as trucks that transport goods across long distances. This class typically has an age requirement of 26 years.
- Class H: This license is necessary for operators of earth-moving equipment used in construction and heavy-duty tasks.
- Class J: A special license category designed for individuals with physical disabilities, allowing them to operate specially modified vehicles.
- Class V: Issued to those who drive in convoys for government officials, emphasizing the need for specialized training in security and convoy management.
Each class is tailored to specific vehicle types, promoting responsible driving practices among Nigerian motorists. For further information on obtaining a driver's license or details about each class, visit the Federal Road Safety Corps website or consult local driving schools.