Before you go
Bring these documents to avoid multiple trips.
- Eye test / medical certificate
- National ID card or NIN slip
- Two recent passport photos (white background)
- Bank teller slip for learner fee
- Written test pass certificate
- Practical test pass certificate
Steps
- 1
Book a medical / eye test
Visit any registered optician or clinic for a basic eye test. You need a certificate confirming your eyesight meets the DVLA minimum standard. This can be done at any clinic or hospital — Connaught is the most popular. Cost is usually Le 20,000–30,000.
Le 25,000📍 Registered clinic / opticianDay 1 - 2
Collect and complete application forms
Visit the DVLA office on Wilkinson Road to collect Form DL1 (Learner Driver Application). Fill in your personal details, attach your eye-test certificate, two passport photos, and a copy of your NIN slip or national ID.
📍 DVLA · FreetownDay 1 - 3
Pay the learner licence fee
Pay Le 50,000 at the designated bank (usually Rokel Commercial Bank) into the DVLA account. Keep both copies of the teller. Return to DVLA with all documents and the teller to receive your provisional/learner licence.
Le 50,000📍 DVLA · FreetownDay 1 - 4
Pass the written knowledge test
Study the Sierra Leone Highway Code (available at DVLA for Le 10,000 or online). The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and vehicle safety. It is multiple-choice and taken at the DVLA office. A pass score is 70%. If you fail, you may retake after one week.
Le 10,000📍 DVLA · FreetownDay 2 - 5
Pass the practical driving test
A DVLA examiner will assess your driving on a designated route near the DVLA office. The test includes: vehicle safety checks, moving off and stopping, junctions, roundabouts, and emergency stop. Book your practical test date when you receive your written test pass certificate.
📍 DVLA · FreetownDay 3 - 6
Pay the full licence fee and collect your licence
After passing both tests, pay the full driver's licence fee (Le 100,000) at the bank and return to DVLA. Your licence is usually printed and ready the same day or next working day. The licence is valid for 5 years.
Le 100,000📍 DVLA · FreetownDay 5
Community tips
“The written test is straightforward if you study the Highway Code booklet thoroughly. Focus on road signs — those are the most common questions.”
“Go to the DVLA counter early (before 9 am). The queue builds up quickly and can run to 2–3 hours by midday.”
“Bring all your documents in a clear plastic folder. The DVLA officers will check everything at the gate before letting you join the queue.”
“The DVLA written test is held at 10 am and 2 pm only — confirm the time at the counter when you arrive.”
“testing the step 4 reference step feature”