Gambia Driving Test

Expect a written theory paper, usually multiple choice, followed by a practical driving test with an examiner in the car. The theory paper tests signs, signals, road markings, priority rules, traffic law and safe driving. The practical assesses vehicle control, observation and judgement in real traffic.

Those details are set by the official licensing authority and can change, so this guide does not quote them. The authority publishes the current question count, time allowance and pass mark on its website and at licensing offices. Confirm before booking so you prepare against the right target.

Duration and fees are fixed by the licensing authority, not by this guide. Fees can differ for first attempts, retakes and licence issuance, and may be revised. Check the official authority's published schedule or ask at your local licensing office for the current amounts.

Retakes are normally allowed, but the waiting period, any additional fee and the number of attempts permitted are set by the licensing authority. Ask at the office when you book. Between attempts, focus on the section you failed rather than rereading everything.

The theory paper is manageable with structured study; most failures come from rushed reading of sign shapes, confusion between similar signs, and weak priority rules at junctions. The practical test fails people on observation, not skill: missed mirror and shoulder checks, poor lane position and hesitation at intersections.

Start with signs, signals and road markings, since they underpin everything else. Move to rules of the road and right-of-way, then traffic law and licensing. Add safe and defensive driving, vehicle checks and maintenance, emergency procedures, and finally fitness topics such as alcohol, drugs and fatigue.

Common causes are memorising sign pictures without learning their meaning, mixing up warning and regulatory signs, misreading road markings, and guessing at right-of-way in unfamiliar situations. Practise explaining why an answer is correct, not just recognising it, and review every mistake.

Ask the licensing office which documents are required, since rules on learner permits and identification can change. For the drive itself, practise the same route habits repeatedly: pre-drive checks, mirror and shoulder checks before moving, steady speed, correct signalling and safe gaps at junctions.

No. This is an independent study resource and is not official and not endorsed by any government body. Use it alongside the official highway code and the licensing authority's own publications, which remain the authoritative source for rules, procedures and current requirements.