Ethiopian Traffic Law: The Rules Behind the Rules
Ethiopian traffic law is built around the Federal Transport Authority framework and the traffic police, who enforce the rules on the road. Candidates should understand the structure: licensing (learner, provisional, full), vehicle registration and inspection, insurance requirements, and offences and penalties.
Key legal concepts: driving without a valid licence, without insurance, or without a roadworthy vehicle are all offences. Drink-driving is prohibited; any alcohol above the prescribed limit is an offence. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are set by road type and by signs; exceeding them is an offence. Accidents must be reported to the police, and drivers must stop, give assistance, and exchange details. Hit-and-run is a serious offence.
Traps: questions that ask whether you may drive with a provisional licence alone (usually no - a qualified driver must accompany you); questions about insurance (third-party cover is the minimum legal requirement); and questions about documentation (you must carry your licence, insurance, and vehicle papers).
Rule of thumb: if you cannot produce the paper, you cannot prove the right. Carry your licence, insurance certificate, and vehicle registration at all times.