DRIVING LICENSE in Cambodia. LOCATION and Step-by-Step process.
Cambodian driving license card
LATEST UPDATE: The venue for the license is open. Eye test (health check) costs 10,000 Riels. Drivers over 60 get 2-year licenses (some recently got 5 years—TBC). Tests for car and motorbike can be done the same day, but you must register in advance—no walk-in exams. Bikes and cars are available on-site.
If looking for renewal or conversion from a foreign license, please read our latest post here.
Fines for riding without a valid license are up to 1.2 million riel (~$300) for light vehicles.
LOCATION on Road National 5:
Heavy Truck Training Centre
NR5, Phnom Penh
Map on Google, click here
This location is for all kinds of licenses, from motorbikes to trucks.
Process:
If you require information, please proceed to the second office located on the left after the venue’s reception. Look for the large red and white electric pole on your right while on Road 5. The Heavy Truck Training Centre is situated just there on the right-hand side. It is sizable and well-organised; you certainly won't miss it.
You can call 1275 (Government phone number information) to get general details in English (expect this to differ from what you expect, though, as some locals might speak poor English). FOR MOTORCYCLE LICENSE, call 092719106
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1 - REGISTERING:
It is recommended that you come in person to the test facility in advance to register to be tested on a future date. It can vary depending on how many people attend the test. Usually, the next day, but it can be the next week. Worth noting that some of our members registered themselves online with success. This is a recent improvement (2024).
Prepare the following Documents:
A letter of residency from your Sangkat. Make 100% sure that it is a specific letter for a driving license. Regular letters were refused in the past. Ask a local native speaker to translate for confirmation. Prepare 2 LETTERS if you need 2 licenses (one for a car, one for a motorbike, for instance).
3 ID photos 4x6.
Passport + photocopy of passport.
Visa + photocopy with previous stamps as proof of long-term stay in Cambodia (which means that if you even have a month left on your visa, it will be accepted) or at least 6 months validity left of a 12-month visa.
TOTAL COST
120,000 riels ($30) (+ 1000 riels photocopies)
Test cost= 100,000 riels ($25). ($45 for a car)
Eye test cost per license 20,000 riels ($5)
Photocopies cost 1000 riels (if you didn't make them before you visited the venue).
Prefer local currency. If in dollars, no daily conversion. If in dollars, the price is $25 for the license and $5 for the eye test.
Contact us if there is an update to a new price or policy. All payments can be made in cash or through Wing and ABA.
2 - TEST DAY:
THEORY:
The Theory test is in one group from 9 to 10 am.
You need to answer 35 questions (40 for the car's test) on a computer exactly like you would do on the app used for training called CAMBODIA DRIVING RULES (available on the Playstore for Android and also available for iPhone)
Passing this test is necessary for every license you need (car, motorcycle, etc.). 2 licenses = 2 tests.
TIPS:
Download the App, practice and revise: Apple Store or Google Play* The APP is in both English and Khmer
INSIDE🔥HOT🔥TIP:
Focus only on the “Champion” section of the app for quick revision and mock tests.
RIDING TEST:
Graphic of the riding test parcours
Inform them of the type of licence you require: manual or automatic. You can hire a scooter or a motorbike on the premises (approximately $10). Alternatively, you may use your own motorbike. If you decide on the automatic licence, you will not be permitted to use a manual, as you will receive a specific licence to operate automatic two-wheelers only.
Practical testing for cars and bikes can begin by 10:30 am (expect updates). You might be tested and receive your licence card printed before the 11 am lunch break. Otherwise, you will need to return for the afternoon session, which starts at 2 pm.
You need to navigate around the course and complete an 8-cone slalom, with the cones spaced more than 2 metres apart. The easier circuit at the test facility includes mock junctions, level crossings, traffic lights, and more. Please be aware that the test begins with a stop on an incline. The 8-cone slalom demands considerable practice (most fail due to insufficient practice or using a large bike that is inappropriate), which can be done before 9 am or in the afternoon.
Opt for lighter bikes. Avoid very low customs and excessively sporty bikes. Very heavy customs, cruisers, sport bikes, and heavy motorcycles are usually unsuitable unless you are an experienced rider. Some motorbikes are available for rent on-site; however, it is preferable to use your own motorcycle to avoid any surprises.
Look at what it looks like compared to a 'western type' of slalom in my video. Get a small and nimble motorbike. Use Honda FTR, SL230, XR or any other 200- 250cc trail and classic bike.
Cheers and best of luck!
Read more about the Training Centre here.
MPWT Website: https://www.mpwt.gov.kh/en/public-services/driver-s-license
