Procedures for the Acquisition and Renewal of the Right to Drive Vehicles and Procedures for the Issuance, Exchange, Renewal and Destruction of a Driving Licence

[24 April 2012]

Issued in accordance with
Section 22, Paragraph two and Section 25, Paragraph four of the Road Traffic Law, Section 18, Paragraph one,
Clause 1 of the law On the Regulated Professions and the Recognition of Professional Qualifications,
Section 6.¹, Paragraph three and Section 30.¹, Paragraph three of the Law on Carriage by Road

[24 April 2012]

1. General Provisions

1. This Regulation prescribes:

1.1. the minimum requirements for the acquisition of the professional qualification of a driver of a motor vehicle;

1.2. the procedures by which the right to drive motor vehicles, mopeds, trams and bicycles shall be acquired and renewed;

1.3. the procedures by which the driving licence shall be issued, exchanged, and renewed;

1.4. the cases when the driving licence is destroyed, as well as the procedures for destroying the driving licence.

[24 April 2012]

2. The Regulation shall not apply to the procedures for the acquisition of the right to drive tractor-type machinery and the drawing-up, issuance, exchange, renewal, and destruction of such driving licence.

[24 April 2012]

3. Driving licence (Annex 1) is a document of credit card format (dimensions 54 x 85 mm) made from special materials with anti-counterfeiting elements integrated therein, which is issued to a person on the basis of the acquired rights to drive a vehicle of a category specified in the Road Traffic Law.

3.¹ A driving qualification card (hereinafter - the card) (Annex 1.¹) is a document of credit card format (dimensions 54 x 85 mm) made from special materials with anti-counterfeiting elements integrated therein which is issued to a person who is not a citizen of a European Union Member State or a member state of the European Free Trade Association and who does not have a driving licence issued in such states, as a certification for the professional knowledge acquired to perform carriage of goods or passengers.

[9 September 2014]

4. A learnerʼs permit (hereinafter - the permit) (Annex 2) is a document of credit card format (dimensions 54 x 85 mm) made from special materials with anti-counterfeiting elements integrated therein which is issued to a person as a certification to the right to learn the driving of AM, A1, A2, A, B1, B or C1 category vehicles.

[10 May 2011; 5 January 2016]

5. A person who corresponds to the requirements of the Road Traffic Law and on whom the restrictions referred to in Paragraph 11 of this Regulation have not been imposed may take the tests specified for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles, to acquire the right to drive, and to receive a driving licence. A person on whom the restrictions referred to in Paragraph 11 of this Regulation have not been imposed and who has the driving licence for C1, C1E, D1, D1E, C, CE, D or DE category vehicles and a work permit issued in Latvia may receive the card.

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013; 9 September 2014; 5 January 2016]

6. The driving licence, card, and permit shall be issued, exchanged, and renewed by the State stock company "Road Traffic Safety Directorate" (hereinafter - the RTSD).

[9 September 2014]

7. The driving licence, card, and permit shall be drawn-up in a computerised form. All entries therein shall be made using a computer printing device by printing out the relevant information from the State register of vehicles and their drivers.

[9 September 2014]

8. A person may have only one driving licence, card, or permit valid for use. The driving licence, card, or permit which was the last one issued to the person shall be considered as valid for use. If the use of an invalid driving licence, card, or permit is detected, the relevant driving licence, card, or permit shall be suspended and destroyed by the officials of the State Police or the RTSD.

[9 September 2014]

9. The term of validity of a permit shall be three years.

[10 May 2011; Amendments to Paragraph shall come into force on 1 January 2013. See Paragraph 2 of amendments]

9.¹ The term of validity of the card shall be five years, counting from passing the driving test referred to in Paragraph 71 of this Regulation or completing the periodic training course referred to in Paragraph 79, except the case referred to in Paragraph 78 of this Regulation when the card is issued for a term which conforms to the term of validity of the card issued previously.

[9 September 2014]

10. Prior to drawing up the driving licence, card, or permit, as well as prior to taking the theoretical test (test of the knowledge of the Road Traffic Regulations and traffic safety while the persons provides answers to the questions of the test) or driving test (test of the driving abilities and skills, test of the knowledge of the Road Traffic Regulations and traffic safety while the person is driving a vehicle), the person shall present a personal identification document, a driving licence issued in Latvia, a permit, or a driving licence issued by the RTSD for driving a small craft or recreational vessels and shall submit to the request of the RTSD to perform verification of the identity of the person. A person who has not reached15 years of age may present a birth certificate.

[9 September 2014; 5 January 2016]

11. It is prohibited to issue any driving licence, card, and permit to a person:

11.1. whose right to drive a vehicle has been revoked (or a prohibition to acquire it has been specified);

11.2. who has been diagnosed with medical contraindications for driving vehicles, who has not undergone the primary or regular health examination or who has not performed early health examination in accordance with the procedures laid down in the laws and regulations regarding health examinations for drivers of vehicles;

11.3. who has not paid the fine imposed for an administrative violation in road traffic within the time period specified in laws and regulations;

11.4. on whom the means of influencing has been imposed - prohibition to exercise the right to drive vehicles - within the scope of the demerit point system.

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013; 9 September 2014]

2. Acquisition, Renewal and Exchange of a Permit

12. In order to acquire a permit, a person must have reached the following age:

12.1. 12 years - in order to acquire a permit to learn to drive AM category vehicles;

12.2. 14 years - in order to acquire a permit to learn to drive A1 and B1 category vehicles;

12.3. 16 years - in order to acquire a permit to learn to drive A2, B, and C1 category vehicles;

12.4. 22 years - in order to acquire a permit to learn to drive A category vehicles.

[10 December 2013]

13. Upon issuing a permit to a person, the right to learn to drive vehicles of the following categories shall be indicated therein:

13.1. AM category vehicles - for persons who have reached 12 years of age;

13.2. AM, A1 and B1 category vehicles - for persons who have reached 14 years of age;

13.3. AM, A1, A2, B1, B, and C1 category vehicles - for persons who have reached 16 years of age;

13.4. AM, A1, A2, A, B1, B, and C1 category vehicles - for persons who have reached 22 years of age.

[10 December 2013]

14. A permit to learn to drive vehicles of specific category is not issued to a person, if he or she has been issued a driving licence for vehicles of the same category (except the case if the person has passed the theoretical test in accordance with Paragraph 39 of this Regulation).

15. [10 May 2011]

16. In order to exchange a valid permit, the person shall submit the permit to be exchanged to the RTSD.

[10 May 2011; 5 January 2016]

3. Acquiring the Right to Drive Vehicles

17. A person may acquire the right to drive vehicles at a RTSD department in which the tests necessary for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles of the relevant category are taken and driving licences are issued.

18. The procedures for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles of different categories (age, experience, type of training, and tests to be taken in order to acquire a driving licence) are specified in Annex 3 to this Regulation.

19. In order to acquire the right to drive vehicles, the person shall submit the training card for taking tests (except in cases referred to in Annex 3 to this Regulation, if the person need not to complete training courses for driving vehicles of the relevant category) and a certificate attesting to completion of first aid courses or a document of respective education, or a respective student's (pupilʼs) card in accordance with the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding preparation of drivers of vehicles. The person shall not submit the abovementioned documents, if information on them is in the State register of vehicles and their drivers.

[10 May 2011]

20. Upon receipt of a driving licence, the previous driving licence (if such has been acquired previously) shall be handed over to the RTSD. The persons who hold double citizenship (of Latvia and another state) shall be allowed not to hand over the previous driving licence, if the driving licence to be exchanged has not been issued in the Member State of the European Union or of the European Free Trade Association.

20.¹ A person shall take the theoretical and driving tests for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles when he or she has reached the age specified for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles of the relevant category.

[10 December 2013]

21. Tests for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles shall be taken in the following order: first the theoretical test shall be taken, and after successful passing thereof - the driving test shall be taken.

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013]

22. [5 January 2016]

23. If the driving test is not passed or the driving test is not being taken, the results of the theoretical test shall be valid for one year from the day of taking it. Upon expiry of the abovementioned time period, the results of the theoretical test are annulled and the test must be re-taken.

24. In order for a person who has received a driving licence with the right to drive vehicles without a clutch pedal or without a manually operated lever (for category A1, A2 and A vehicles), to acquire the right to drive vehicles with manual transmission, he or she shall take the driving test corresponding to the category with a vehicle with manual transmission.

[10 May 2011 / The new wording of Paragraph shall come into force on 1 January 2013. See Paragraph 2 of amendments]

4. Exchange of a Driving Licence

25. To exchange a driving licence, a person shall submit the driving licence to be exchanged to the RTSD. In order to obtain a certification regarding the legal nature of acquiring the driving licence to be exchanged, the RTSD is entitled to request written information from the diplomatic or consular representation of the relevant state accredited in the Republic of Latvia or from the competent authority of the issuing state of the driving licence on the fact of issuing the driving licence, its term of validity, the vehicle categories indicated therein and other information which may confirm the fact of issuance of the driving licence, if:

25.1. the driving licence issued in a foreign state contains corrections or additions or if the licence has been mechanically or otherwise damaged and it is not possible to determine the data of the licence;

25.2. a driving licence issued in a foreign state is submitted by a person to whom a driving licence has not been previously issued in Latvia;

25.3. the submitted driving licence does not correspond to the sample driving licences at the disposal of the RTSD and submitted by the relevant states or to the catalogues for the issuance of the forms of driving licences, or if there are justified doubts that the driving licence has been acquired illegally, and it is not possible to verify the driving licence in the register of driving licences of its issuing state.

[10 May 2011; 8 November 2016]

26. The RTSD shall send the exchanged driving licence issued in a foreign state to the issuing state or to competent authorities of the issuing state by indicating the reasons for exchange.

[5 January 2016]

27. Upon changing the driving licence which was not drawn up in the language of a Member State of the European Union or of the European Free Trade Association or in Russian, the RTSD has the right to request a notarially certified translation of the driving licence, as well as other documents to be submitted in Latvian.

28. A driving licence issued in Latvia, a driving licence issued in a European Union Member State or a member state of the European Free Trade Association, and a driving licence issued in such states with which a relevant international agreement has been entered into, shall be exchanged without taking the tests.

[10 May 2011]

29. A driving licence issued in a state which is not referred to in Paragraph 28 of this Regulation, shall be exchanged after passing a driving test corresponding to B category (a driving test which includes driving in the road traffic must be taken), but the driving licence of the former U.S.S.R. sample shall not be exchanged. If the driving licence gives the right to drive C1, C1E, D1, D1E, C, CE, D or DE category vehicles, the person may take the driving test also with some other vehicle corresponding to the categories marked in the driving licence. If the driving licence gives the right to drive only mopeds, motorcycles, tricycles or quadricycles, the person shall pass a driving test corresponding to the relevant category, but if the driving licence gives the right to drive only trams or trolleybuses, the person shall pass the theoretical test.

[9 September 2014]

30. If a person, upon exchanging a driving licence issued in Latvia, concurrently also exchanges a driving licence issued in another state (except a driving licence issued in a European Union Member State or a member state of the European Free Trade Association, and a driving licence issued in such states with which a relevant international agreement has been entered into) in which other categories than in the driving licence issued in Latvia are marked, the person shall be issued a driving licence with the categories indicated in both abovementioned driving licences after passing a relevant driving test.

[10 May 2011; 5 January 2016]

31. If a person who exchanges a driving licence issued in another state has had a driving licence issued in Latvia for the same categories, the driving licence shall be exchanged without taking the tests.

32. If a person exchanges a driving licence issued abroad in which the categories of vehicles specified in the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic of 1968 have not been indicated, then the categories which most accurately correspond to the categories indicated in the driving licence to be exchanged shall be indicated in the driving licence issued in Latvia.

[5 January 2016]

33. If according to an opinion of health examination a person is prohibited to drive vehicles of a certain category or a person refuses from such category, the new driving licence shall be drawn up without indicating the relevant category.

[10 December 2013]

34. If the person has been drawn up a driving licence in accordance with the procedures referred to in Paragraph 33 of this Regulation in which individual categories of vehicles are not indicated, then in order to renew the relevant category and receive the driving licence the person shall submit the driving licence.

[10 May 2011]

5. Renewal of a Driving Licence and the Right to Drive

35. Renewal of a driving licence is drawing up of a driving licence in place of the driving licence lost, stolen or destroyed.

36. A driving licence issued in Latvia, a driving licence issued in a European Union Member State or a member state of the European Free Trade Association, and a driving licence issued in such states with which a relevant international agreement has been entered into shall be renewed without taking the tests, but the licence of the former U.S.S.R. form shall not be renewed.

[10 May 2011]

37. In order to obtain a certification regarding lawfulness of acquiring a foreign driving licence lost or stolen, the RTSD shall verify its data in the register of the competent authority of the issuing state or request a certificate - confirmation from the diplomatic or consular representation of the relevant state accredited in the Republic of Latvia or from the competent authority of the issuing state of the driving licence.

[10 May 2011; 8 November 2016]

38. Renewal of the right to drive is the recovery of the driving licence, if the right of the person to drive vehicles has been revoked.

39. If, within the scope of the demerit point system, a prohibition of exercising the right to drive vehicles has been imposed on a person or the right of a person to drive vehicles has been revoked for a year or more, or the right to drive vehicles has been revoked for driving a vehicle under the influence of alcoholic, narcotic, psychotropic, toxic or other intoxicating substances, the person shall take the theoretical and driving tests corresponding to B category in one of the RTSD departments in which such tests are performed in order to renew the right to drive. If only AM, A1, A2, A or B1 category is marked in the driving licence, the person shall pass the theoretical and driving tests corresponding to the relevant category, but if only TRAM or TROL category is marked in the driving licence, the person shall pass the theoretical test corresponding to the relevant category.

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013]

39.¹ If the right of a person to drive vehicles has been revoked for a time period of up to one year, the person shall take the theoretical test corresponding to B category in one of the RTSD departments in which such tests are performed in order to renew the right to drive. If only AM, A1, A2 or A category is marked in the driving licence, the person shall pass the theoretical test corresponding to the relevant category.

[8 November 2016]

40. [24 April 2012]

6. Procedures for Performing and Evaluating the Theoretical Test

41. The theoretical test shall be taken in computerised form. Each applicant shall take the theoretical test independently, without the assistance of other persons or ancillary materials.

42. In the theoretical test the applicant shall answer the questions of the RTSD which cover the following topics:

42.1. questions for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles of all categories (principal questions):

42.1.1. legal acts governing road traffic;

42.1.2. factors influencing the actions of the driver of the vehicle (for example, use of alcoholic beverages, medicinal products, fatigue, health condition) and actions in order to fully retain the abilities necessary for safe driving;

42.1.3. safe driving of a vehicle under different road conditions (safe distance, braking distance and road holding under various road and weather conditions; risks and changes in them depending on the weather conditions and the time of day or night; rules when driving a vehicle on various types of road; safe driving of a vehicle in tunnels);

42.1.4. actions of other road traffic participants and provision of their (particularly - vulnerable road users (for example, pedestrians, cyclists)) safety;

42.1.5. technical condition of the vehicle, its impact on the road traffic safety;

42.1.6. economic and environment-friendly driving, environment-friendly exploitation of the vehicle;

42.1.7. provision of first aid;

42.1.8. [5 January 2016];

42.2. questions for the acquisition of the right to drive AM, A1, A2 and A category vehicles (additional questions):

42.2.1. use of protective clothing and a helmet;

42.2.2. actions of other road traffic participants (particularly - their ability to notice, in a timely manner, a moped or motorcycle);

42.2.3. safe driving of a moped or motorcycle under different road conditions;

42.2.4. technical condition of the moped or motorcycle, its impact on the road traffic safety;

42.3. questions for the acquisition of the right to drive C1, C1E, D1, D1E, C, CE, D and DE category vehicles (additional questions):

42.3.1. legal acts governing the driving hours and rest periods;

42.3.2. legal acts governing the carriage of goods or passengers;

42.3.3. documents required for the national and international carriage of goods and passengers;

42.3.4. behaviour of the driver in the event of a road traffic accident (for example, evacuation of passengers and provision of first aid);

42.3.5. precautionary measures to be implemented during the change of wheel;

42.3.6. permissible vehicle weight and dimensions, speed limiters;

42.3.7. reading a road map, route planning (including electronic navigation systems);

42.3.8. safety factors relating to the load of the vehicle (only for C1, C1E, C and CE categories);

42.3.9. the driverʼs responsibility in respect to the carriage of passengers, comfort and safety of passengers, transport of children (for D, DE, D1 and D1E categories only);

42.4. questions for the acquisition of the right to drive C, CE, D and DE category vehicles (additional questions):

42.4.1. the principles of the construction and functioning of the engine, the cooling system, the power system, the electrical system, the ignition system and the transmission;

42.4.2. lubrication and antifreeze protection;

42.4.3. the principles of the construction, the fitting, correct use and care of tyres;

42.4.4. the principles of the types, operation, main parts, connection, use and day-to-day maintenance of brake fittings and speed governors, and use of anti-lock braking systems;

42.4.5. the principles of the types, operation, main parts, connection, use and day-to-day maintenance of coupling systems (for CE and DE categories only);

42.4.6. methods of locating causes of breakdowns of a vehicle;

42.4.7. preventive maintenance of a vehicle and necessary running repairs;

42.4.8. the driverʼs responsibility in respect of the receipt, carriage and delivery of goods in accordance with the agreed conditions (for C and CE categories only).

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013; 5 January 2016]

43. The applicant shall answer consecutively in the theoretical test:

43.1. for the acquisition of the right to drive AM category vehicles - to 15 principal questions and five additional questions provided for the drivers of vehicles of such category;

43.2. for the acquisition of the right to drive A1, A2 and A category vehicles - to 20 principal questions and 10 additional questions provided for the drivers of vehicles of such categories;

43.3. for the acquisition of the right to drive B1 or B category vehicles, as well as tram or trolleybus - to 30 principal questions;

43.4. for the acquisition of the right to drive C1 or C category vehicles - to 30 principal questions and five additional questions provided for the drivers of vehicles of such categories;

43.5. for the acquisition of the right to drive D1 or D category vehicles - to 30 principal questions and five additional questions provided for the drivers of vehicles of such categories.

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013]

44. The time intended for providing answers to the theoretical test in the theoretical test for the acquisition of the right to drive AM category vehicles shall be 20 minutes, but in the theoretical test for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles of other categories - 30 minutes.

[10 May 2011; Amendment to Paragraph shall come into force on 1 January 2013. See Paragraph 2 of the Amendments]

45. The theoretical test is passed, if, upon taking a test for the acquisition of the right to drive AM category vehicles, the applicant has made not more than two incorrect answers, but in taking a test for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles of other categories - not more than three incorrect answers.

[10 May 2011; Amendment to Paragraph shall come into force on 1 January 2013. See Paragraph 2 of the Amendments]

46. If the theoretical test has not been passed, re-taking of the test shall be permissible not earlier than on the following day.

7. Procedures for Performing and Evaluating the Driving Test

7.1. General Requirements

47. An applicant shall take the driving test independently by driving a vehicle of the respective category. During the test the applicant shall show whether he or she has the following knowledge, skills and abilities (competence):

47.1. to check the technical condition of the vehicle and its ancillary devices;

47.2. to prepare for driving;

47.3. to use the control devices and ancillary devices of the vehicle;

47.4. to drive the vehicle according to its dimensions and weight, taking into account the comfort of passengers (for D1, D1E, D and DE categories only);

47.5. to control the vehicle when driving on straight roads and rounds bends;

47.6. complying with the requirements of means for organising and regulating road traffic;

47.7. complying with the requirements for priorities and giving way;

47.8. to change the direction of driving at crossroads, to change lanes, to use warning signals;

47.9. to choose the driving speed corresponding to the flow of vehicles of the relevant type in populated areas and outside populated areas, taking into account the road and weather conditions, to develop and maintain corresponding driving speed; to perform overtaking or passing manoeuvre;

47.10. to ascertain regarding safety in a timely manner;

47.11. to choose a distance and interval corresponding to the driving speed;

47.12. to understand the traffic situation, to take corresponding decisions;

47.13. to adapt to the traffic flow, to be tolerant to other participants of the traffic;

47.14. to drive the vehicle safely, economically and environmentally-friendly by taking into account the number of revolutions per minute of the engine, changing gears, braking and accelerating (except A1, A2 and A category).

[10 December 2013]

48. The driving test for the acquisition of the right to drive B category vehicles shall be taken with a vehicle owned (possessed) by the RTSD (except in cases when the person is permitted to drive accordingly adapted vehicles according to an opinion of health examination). The driving test for the acquisition of the right to drive vehicles of other categories, as defined by the RTSD, shall be taken by a vehicle owned (possessed) by the RTSD, a vehicle of the driving school, a vehicle of learning driving, or a vehicle of the applicant (only for AM and A1 category). Vehicles must conform to the requirements which have been laid down for learning vehicles in the laws and regulations regarding preparation of drivers of vehicles (except the requirement regarding the sign of recognition). and a voluntary insurance must be settled. B, C1, C, D1 and D category vehicles must be registered as learning vehicles in the State register of vehicles and their drivers.

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013]

49. In addition to the requirements referred to in Paragraph 48 of this Regulation the vehicles to be used for the driving test shall conform to the following requirements:

49.1. AM category - a two-wheel moped with a spark ignition engine and a maximum design speed of not more than 45 km/h;

49.2. A1 category - an A1 category motorcycle without a side-car, the engine power of which does not exceed 11 kW, the cylinder capacity is at least 115 cm³, the power and weight ratio does not exceed 0.1 kW/kg, and the maximum speed is at least 90 km/h. If the motorcycle is equipped with an electric motor, the power and weight ratio is at least 0.08 kW/kg;

49.3. A2 category - a motorcycle without a side-car, the engine power of which is 20-35 kW, the cylinder capacity is at least 395 cm³, and the power and weight ratio does not exceed 0.2 kW/kg. If the motorcycle is equipped with an electric motor, the power and weight ratio is at least 0.15 kW/kg;

49.4. A category - a motorcycle without a side-car, the engine power of which is at least 50 kW, the cylinder capacity - at least 595 cm³, and the unladen mass - at least 175 kg. If the motorcycle is equipped with an electric motor, the power and weight ratio is at least 0.25 kW/kg;

49.5. B1 category - a quadricycle the maximum speed of which is at least 60 km/h;

49.6. B category - a four-wheel B category vehicle the maximum speed of which is at least 100 km/h;

49.7. BE category - a coupling of a tractor vehicle with a trailer of B category corresponding to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 49.6 of this Regulation, if such coupling is not included in B category and its maximum speed is at least 100 km/h. The laden mass of the trailer must be at least 1000 kg, and the trailer must be equipped with a closed body the height and width of which is not less than the height and width of the tractor vehicle. The closed body of the trailer may also be slightly less wide than the tractor vehicle, provided that the view to the rear is only possible by use of the external rear-view mirrors. The actual mass of the trailer is at least 800 kg;

49.8. C1 category - a C1 category vehicle the maximum speed of which is at least 80 km/h, the laden mass - at least 4000 kg, the length - at least 5 m and which is equipped with a tachograph, fitted with anti-lock braking system and cargo compartment with a closed body the height and width of which is not less than the height and width of the cab of the vehicle;

49.9. C1E category - a coupling of a tractor vehicle with a trailer of C1 category corresponding to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 49.8 of this Regulation, the laden mass of which is at least 1250 kg, but the length of the combination of the vehicle - at least 8 m, and the maximum speed - at least 80 km/h. The trailer must be equipped with a closed body the height and width of which is not less than the height and width of the tractor vehicle. The closed body of the trailer may also be slightly less wide than the tractor vehicle, provided that the view to the rear is only possible by use of the external rear-view mirrors. The laden mass of the trailer is at least 800 kg;

49.10. C category - a C category vehicle the maximum speed of which is at least 80 km/h, the laden mass - at least 12,000 kg, the length - at least 8 m, the width - at least 2.40 m and which is equipped with a tachograph, fitted with anti-lock braking system, manual gearbox and cargo compartment with a closed body the height and width of which is not less than the height and width of the cab of the vehicle. The actual mass of the vehicle is at least 10,000 kg;

49.11. CE category - an articulated vehicle or a coupling of a tractor vehicle with a trailer of C category corresponding to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 49.10 of this Regulation the length of which is at least 7.5 m, or with a semi-trailer. The laden mass of an articulated vehicle or a combination of vehicles is at least 20,000 kg, the length - at least 14 m, the width - at least 2.40 m, and the maximum speed - at least 80 km/h. The vehicle or combination of vehicles must be equipped with a recording equipment, fitted with anti-lock braking system, manual gearbox and cargo compartment with a closed body the height and width of which is not less than the height and width of the cab of the vehicle. The actual mass of the vehicle or combination of vehicles is at least 15,000 kg;

49.12. D1 category - a D1 category vehicles the maximum speed of which is at least 80 km/h, the laden mass - at least 4000 kg, the length - at least 5 m and which is equipped with a tachograph and fitted with anti-lock braking system;

49.13. D1E category - a coupling of a tractor vehicle with a trailer of D1 category corresponding to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 49.12 of this Regulation, the laden mass of which is at least 1250 kg and the maximum speed - at least 80 km/h. The trailer must be equipped with a closed body the height and width of which is at least 2 m. The actual mass of the trailer is at least 800 kg;

49.14. D category - a D category vehicles the maximum speed of which is at least 80 km/h, the length - at least 10 m, the width - at least 2.40 m and which is equipped with a tachograph and fitted with anti-lock braking system;

49.15. DE category - a coupling of a tractor vehicle with a trailer of D category corresponding to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 49.14 of this Regulation, the laden mass of which is at least 1250 kg, but the width - at least 2.40 m, and the maximum speed - at least 80 km/h. The trailer must be equipped with a closed body the height and width of which is at least 2 m. The actual mass of the trailer is at least 800 kg;

49.16. B category with the code of additional information referred to in Sub-paragraph 8.8¹ of Annex 1 to this Regulation - a coupling of a tractor vehicle with a trailer of B category corresponding to the requirements referred to in Sub-paragraph 49.6 of this Regulation, the laden mass of which is at least 750 kg, the actual mass - at least 500 kg, and the maximum speed - at least 100 km/h. The trailer must be equipped with a closed body the height and width of which is not less than the height and width of the tractor vehicle. The closed body of the trailer may also be slightly narrower than the tractor vehicle, provided that the view to the rear is only possible by use of the external rear-view mirrors. The laden mass of the combination of vehicles is from 3501 to 4250 kg.

[10 December 2013; 9 September 2014]

50. [10 May 2011 / See Paragraph two of the Amendments]

51. For taking a driving test a vehicle with manual transmission, i.e. a vehicle with a clutch pedal or hand lever (for A1, A2 and A category vehicles), shall be used which is operated when driving away, stopping the vehicle and shifting gears. The vehicle which does not conform to the abovementioned requirements, is deemed a vehicle with automatic transmission (except AM category vehicles) and, if the driving test is being taken with such vehicle, it shall be indicated in the driving licence issued after passing the test which gives the right to the person to drive only vehicles with automatic transmission. This requirement shall not apply, if the person who takes the driving test for the acquisition of the right to drive C, CE, D or DE category vehicles has beforehand passed the driving test with a B, BE, C, CE, C1, C1E, D, DE, D1 or D1E category vehicle with manual transmission.

[10 December 2013; 5 January 2016]

52. The order for performing a driving test:

52.1. preparation before driving away and testing of knowledge of the vehicle:

52.1.1. for AM, A1, A2 and A categories - adjustment of the protective clothing and performing a check on the condition of the tyres, brakes, steering, emergency stop switch, chain, oil levels, lights, reflectors, direction indicators or audible warning device;

52.1.2. for B1, B and BE categories - adjustment of the seat, rear-view mirrors, seat belts and head restraints, checking that the doors are closed, performing of a check on the condition of the tyres, steering wheel, brakes, fluids, lights, reflectors, direction indicators, audible warning device, the coupling mechanism and the brake, as well as the electrical connections (only for B category with the code of additional information referred to in Sub-paragraph 8.8¹ of Annex 1 to this Regulation and for BE category) or checking the safety factors relating to vehicle loading (only for B category with the code of additional information referred to in Sub-paragraph 8.8¹ of Annex 1 to this Regulation and for BE category);

52.1.3. for C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D and DE categories:

52.1.3.1. adjustment of the seat, rear-view mirrors, seat belts and head restraints, checking that the doors are closed, performing of a check on the condition of the tyres, steering wheel, brakes, fluids, lights, reflectors, direction indicators or audible warning device;

52.1.3.2. checking of the power-assisted braking and steering systems, checking the condition of the wheels, wheelnuts, mudguards, windscreen, windows and wipers, fluids, checking and using the instrument panel and the recording equipment;

52.1.3.3. checking of the air pressure, air tanks and the suspension;

52.1.3.4. checking of the safety factors relating to the load of the vehicle, way of loading, and securing load (for C1, C1E, C and CE categories only);

52.1.3.5. checking of the coupling mechanism and the brake, as well as the electrical connections (for C1E, CE, D1E and DE categories only);

52.1.3.6. checking and controlling the body, service doors, emergency exits, first aid equipment, fire extinguishers and other safety equipment (for D1, D1E, D and DE categories only);

52.2. executing manoeuvres:

52.2.1. for A1, A2 and A categories - putting the motorcycle off its stand and moving it, without the aid of the engine, by walking alongside the vehicle, parking the motorcycle on its stand, at least two manoeuvres to be executed at slow speed, at least two manoeuvres to be executed at higher speed (one manoeuvre in second or third gear, at least 30 km/h and one manoeuvre avoiding an obstacle at a minimum speed of 50 km/h), at least two braking manoeuvres, including an emergency braking at a minimum speed of 50 km/h;

52.2.2. for B1 and B categories - reversing in a straight line or reversing along a curve, turning the vehicle to face the opposite way, parking the vehicle and leaving a parking space, braking accurately to a stop (at least two manoeuvres shall be executed, including one in reverse);

52.2.3. for BE and B categories with the code of additional information referred to in Sub-paragraph 8.8¹ of Annex 1 to this Regulation - coupling and uncoupling a trailer from its tractor vehicle, reversing along a curve, parking the combination of vehicles and leaving in a parking space;

52.2.4. for C1, C1E, C, CE, D1, D1E, D and DE categories - reversing along a curve, coupling and uncoupling a trailer from its tractor vehicle (for C1E, CE, D1E and DE categories only), parking the vehicle or the combination of vehicles and leaving in a parking space (for C1, C1E, C and CE categories only), parking to let passengers on or off in a public transport stop (permitted to be executed when driving in road traffic, for D1, D1E, D and DE categories only);

52.2.5. for AM category - putting the moped off its stand and moving it, without the aid of the engine, by walking alongside the vehicle, parking the moped on its stand, at least two manoeuvres to be executed at slow speed, at least two manoeuvres to be executed at the minimum speed of 30 km/h (one manoeuvre avoiding an obstacle), at least two braking exercises, including an emergency brake at a minimum speed of 30 km/h;

52.3. driving in traffic - driving in different road traffic situations, including driving away, driving on straight roads, passing oncoming vehicles, driving round bends, approaching and crossing of intersections and junctions, changing direction, using the acceleration lane and the deceleration lane, overtaking and passing, driving over railway level crossings, driving along stops of public transport vehicles, pedestrian crossings, changing lanes, driving uphill, downhill on long slopes and tunnels (if available), terminating driving. Safe, economical and environment-friendly driving in order to guarantee safety and reduce fuel consumption and emissions, including during acceleration or deceleration and driving uphill or downhill, if necessary, by choosing the gear manually.

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013; 9 September 2014; 5 January 2016]

53. The driving instructor shall not participate in the driving test for B and BE category vehicles. The driving instructor shall participate in the driving test for vehicles of other categories, if it is necessary in order to ensure the performance of the test. The issue of the participation of the instructor shall be decided by the RTSD.

54. The driving test in road traffic shall be performed in a route which includes roads of various level of complexity in populated areas, as well as roads on which the permitted driving speed is at least 90 km/h (except the driving test with vehicles of TRAM and TROL category).

55. Orders for the driving direction in the route shall be given to the applicant by the inspector. Orders must be timely and unequivocal. If necessary, the inspector shall repeat the orders upon a request of the applicant. It is prohibited to give such orders upon execution of which the applicant must violate the requirements of the Road Traffic Regulations.

56. The duration of the driving test in road traffic with A1, A2, A, B1, B and BE category vehicles shall be at least 25 minutes, but with vehicles of other categories - 45 minutes.

[10 May 2011; Amendment to Paragraph shall come into force on 1 January 2013. See Paragraph 2 of the Amendments]

57. The driving test with AM, A1, A2 and A category vehicles shall be taken in the time period from 1 April to 1 October (if the conditions for performing the test are favourable, the RTSD may extend the abovementioned time period). The RTSD may refuse to perform the test, if the weather conditions or road conditions are unfavourable (heavy rain, snow, low air temperature, slippery or ice-covered road and similar conditions). At the stage of the test which takes place in road traffic, the inspector shall be in the accompanying vehicle.

[8 November 2016]

7.2. Evaluation of the Driving Test

58. During the driving test the inspector shall evaluate the knowledge, skills and abilities (competence) of the applicant of preparing to drive a vehicle and of driving the vehicle in road traffic. The inspector shall evaluate the level of competence in each of the competences referred to in Paragraph 47 of this Regulation, and the decision on the test result shall be taken after evaluation of the performance of the applicant at large. The competence of the applicant is evaluated in the following levels:

58.1. good - the level of competence in all the competences referred to in Paragraph 47 of this Regulation conforms to that required, the applicant participates in road traffic in a stable way, does not cause threats to himself or herself or other participants of the traffic, knows and is able to apply the main requirements of laws and regulations, complies with the generally accepted norms in road traffic, comprehends the traffic situation and takes corresponding decisions;

58.2. sufficient - the level of competence in all the competences referred to in Paragraph 47 of this Regulation conforms to the minimum of that required, generally the applicant participates in road traffic, does not cause threats to himself or herself or other participants of the traffic, knows and is able to apply the main requirements of laws and regulations, complies with the generally accepted norms in road traffic, comprehends the traffic situation and takes corresponding decisions, but improvements and further independent development are necessary;

58.3. insufficient - the level of competence in one or several of the competences referred to in Paragraph 47 of this Regulation does not conform to the minimum of that required, the applicant is unable to participate in road traffic, causes threats to himself or herself or other participants of the traffic, does not know and is not able to apply the main requirements of laws and regulations, does not comprehend the traffic situation and is not able to take corresponding decisions, therefore situations endangering and hindering the traffic are being or may be caused.

[10 December 2013]

59. The test is passed, if:

59.1. the applicant has good or sufficient level of competence;

59.2. the manoeuvres are executed with not more than two attempts each.

[10 December 2013]

60. If the applicant has not passed the driving test, re-taking of the driving test shall be permitted not earlier than on the following day, except in case the person has contested the evaluation of the test. In case of contesting the evaluation of the test the person may apply for a repeat test after notification of the decision referred to in Paragraph 62 of this Regulation.

7.3. Procedures for Contesting and Appealing the Evaluation of the Driving Test

61. If an applicant does not agree with the evaluation of the driving test, he or she may contest the evaluation of the test within one month by submitting a relevant submission to the RTSD.

62. The conformity of the evaluation of the driving test with the requirements of this Regulation shall be verified by the commission established by the RTSD which shall take its decision within one month after receipt of the submission of the applicant.

63. The applicant may contest the decision of the commission referred to in Paragraph 62 of this Regulation in accordance with the procedures laid down in the Administrative Procedure Law.

64. In cases which are not referred to in this Regulation a decision to acquire the right to drive, to exchange the driving licence, and to renew the driving licence shall be taken by the RTSD in accordance with the laws and regulations governing the administrative process.

8. Acquisition of the Right to Drive a Bicycle

65. The driving licence for a bicycle (Annex 4) shall be issued to a person who has reached 10 years of age and has passed the theoretical test (in computerised form or in writing), consisting of 10 questions regarding the laws and regulations governing road traffic and regarding traffic safety.

[10 December 2013]

66. The time period provided for the provision of answers in the theoretical test for the acquisition of the right to drive a bicycle shall be 10 minutes. The theoretical test shall be passed, if the applicant has provided not more than two incorrect answers.

67. The theoretical test for the acquisition of the right to drive a bicycle shall be performed and the driving licence for a bicycle shall be issued in all departments of the RTSD.

68. If the theoretical test has not been passed, re-taking of the test shall be permissible not earlier than on the following day.

69. Exchange and renewal of the driving licence for a bicycle is performed on the basis of a request of the person and the information existing in the State register of vehicles and their drivers regarding the previously issued driving licence for a bicycle.

[8 November 2016]

70. In order to acquire a driving licence for a bicycle on the basis of the driving licence for other vehicles, the person shall present such driving licence.

[8 November 2016]

9. Procedures for the Acquisition and Renewal of the Professional Right to Drive and Procedures for the Renewal and Exchange of the Driving Licence

71. A person shall acquire the professional right to drive (the driving licence for C1, C1E, D1, D1E, C, CE, D or DE category vehicles with the code of additional information referred to in Sub-paragraph 8.8 of Annex 1 to this Regulation) or the card by passing the theoretical and driving tests at the RTSD.

[9 September 2014]

72. The applicant shall take the theoretical test independently, without the assistance of other persons or ancillary materials.

73. The theoretical test the duration of which shall be at least four hours, shall have two parts:

73.1. the first part - the applicant certifies his or her knowledge by answering questions regarding economic and rational driving, transmission of the vehicle and its correct use, correct placement of goods in the vehicle or ensuring the comfort of passengers, regarding the laws and regulations determining the driving hours and rest periods of the driver and regulates the carriage of goods or passengers, as well as questions regarding the probability of occurrence of road traffic accidents, anticipating of occurrence of dangerous situations, action of the driver upon occurrence of a road traffic accident, prevention of crime and illegal immigration, principles of ergonomics, influence of physical and mental abilities of the driver on road traffic safety, shaping of positive image of the merchant, and economic principles and market organisation for the performance of carriage of goods or passengers;

73.2. the second part - the applicant certifies his or her knowledge regarding the issues referred to in Sub-paragraph 73.1 of this Regulation by performing an analysis of a case.

74. An applicant shall take the driving test independently by driving a vehicle of the respective category. The driving test shall consist of two parts the duration of which is not less than 30 and 90 minutes accordingly:

74.1 the first part - the applicant certifies his or her knowledge regarding correct placement of goods in the vehicle or ensuring the comfort of passengers, the principles of ergonomics, the structure and checks of different systems of the vehicle, and the action of the driver upon occurrence of a road traffic accident, as well as executes manoeuvres;

74.2. the second part - the applicant drives the vehicle in a route which includes roads of different level of complexity in populated areas, as well as roads on which the permitted driving speed is at least 90 km/h.

[10 December 2013]

75. During the driving test the competence of the driver shall be evaluated in accordance with the procedures referred to in Chapter 7.2 of this Regulation. The driving test is not passed, if the applicant is unable to satisfactorily certify his or her knowledge in all questions of the first part of the test.

[10 December 2013]

76. It shall be permitted to join the driving test referred to in Chapter 7 of this Regulation for the acquisition of the right to drive C1, C1E, D1, D1E, C, CE, D or DE category vehicles with the test referred to in Paragraph 74 of this Regulation.

77. If a person who has the right of professional drivers additionally acquires the right to drive C1, C1E, D1, D1E, C, CE, D or DE category vehicles, then the right of professional drivers are also applicable to the newly acquired right to drive.

78. In order to exchange or renew the driving licence referred to in Paragraph 71 of this Regulation and to receive the driving licence with the entry regarding the professional knowledge acquired with the term of validity of five years, or to receive the card, the person shall complete a periodic training course. The person shall submit the driving licence or card to be exchanged to the RTSD. Upon renewing the driving licence or card, if there is no information regarding completion of a new periodic training course in the State register of vehicles and their drivers, the person is issued a driving licence or card in which the term of validity of the code of additional information of the previously issued driving licence is indicated, or a card the term of validity of which conforms to the term of validity of the card issued previously.

[9 September 2014]

79. In order for a person who has acquired the right to drive D1, D1E, D and DE category vehicles by 9 September 2008, to receive the driving licence or card referred to in Paragraph 71 of this Regulation, he or she shall complete a period training course.

[10 December 2013; 9 September 2014]

80. In order for a person who has acquired the right to drive C1, C1E, C and CE category vehicles by 9 September 2009, to receive the driving licence or card referred to in Paragraph 71 of this Regulation, he or she shall complete a period training course.

[10 December 2013; 9 September 2014]

9.¹ Procedures for Destroying the Driving Licence

[24 April 2012]

80.¹ A driving licence is destroyed, if:

80.¹ 1. upon imposition of a sanction, the right of the driver to drive has been revoked for a year or more;

80.¹ 2. the right of the driver to drive vehicles has been revoked for driving a vehicle under the influence of alcoholic, narcotic, psychotropic, toxic or other intoxicating substances regardless of the term of revocation of the right to drive vehicles;

80.¹ 3. the right of the driver to drive vehicles (a prohibition to exercise the right to drive vehicles has been imposed) has been revoked, if the maximum permissible number of demerit points has been registered;

80.¹ 4. the term of validity of the driving licence has expired for such driving licences which have been found and are stored, or there is another justification in accordance with the laws and regulations as to why the driving licence is invalid.

80.² In the cases referred to in Paragraph 80.¹ of this Regulation the driving licence shall be destroyed by an official of the RTSD, the State Technical Control Agency, or the State Police.

80.³ The driving licence shall be destroyed in a way which precludes the possibility of renewing it.

80.⁴ An act is drawn up regarding destruction of the driving licence and information regarding the driving licences destroyed is entered in the State Register of Vehicles and Their Drivers not later than within one working day, indicating the following information:

80.⁴ 1. the name of the institution which destroyed the driving licence;

80.⁴ 2. the given name and surname of the official who destroyed the driving licence;

80.⁴ 3. the date when the driving licence was destroyed.

80.⁵ A driving licence issued in a Member State of the European Union or of the European Free Trade Association which has been found or which has been detained and the holder of which has been revoked the right to drive vehicles or has been imposed a prohibition to exercise the right to drive vehicles, shall be send by the RTSD to the competent authorities of the issuing state, indicating the reason for detaining. The RTSD shall send the driving licences issued by other states to the diplomatic or consular representation of the relevant state accredited in the Republic of Latvia for forwarding to the competent authority of the issuing state of the relevant driving licence.

[8 November 2016]

10. Closing Provisions

81. The norms of Annex 3 to this Regulation in relation to taking a theoretical test for the acquisition of the right to drive A category vehicles shall apply to persons who have completed the training courses for drivers of A category vehicles after coming into force of this Regulation.

82. In the cases referred to in this Regulation, when a person must present a medical statement or must submit other information (for example, training card, certification regarding completion of first aid courses) to the RTSD, it needs not be presented or submitted, if the relevant information is available in the State register of vehicles and their drivers.

83. [10 December 2013]

84. The driving licences issued by 1 January 2017 shall be valid until the expiry of the term of validity indicated therein.

[8 November 2016]

Informative Reference to European Union Directives

[10 May 2011; 24 April 2012; 10 December 2013; 5 January 2016; 8 November 2016]

The Regulation contains legal norms arising from:

1) Council Directive 91/439/EEC of 29 July 1991 on driving licences;

2) Council Directive 94/72/EC of 19 December 1994 amending Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences;

3) Council Directive 96/47/EC of 23 July 1996 amending Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences;

4) Council Directive 97/26/EC of 2 June 1997 amending Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences;

5) Council Directive 2000/56/EC of 14 September 2000 amending Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences;

6) Directive 2003/59/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 15 July 2003 on the initial qualification and periodic training of drivers of certain road vehicles for the carriage of goods or passengers, amending Council Regulation (EEC) No 3820/85 and Council Directive 91/439/EEC and repealing Council Directive 76/914/EEC;

7) Council Directive 2006/103/EC of 20 November 2006 adapting certain Directives in the field of transport policy, by reason of the accession of Bulgaria and Romania;

8) Council Directive 2008/65/EC of 27 June 2008 amending Directive 91/439/EEC on driving licences;

9) Directive 2006/126/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 December 2006 on driving licences;

10) Council Directive 2011/94/EU of 28 November 2011 amending Directive 2006/126/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on driving licences;

11) Council Directive 2012/36/EU of 19 November 2012 amending Directive 2006/126/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on driving licences;

12) Council Directive 2014/85/EU of 1 July 2014 amending Directive 2006/126/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on driving licences;

13) Council Directive 2015/653/EU of 24 April 2015 amending Directive 2006/126/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on driving licences.

Prime Minister V. Dombrovskis

Minister for Transport K. Gerhards

Annex 1
Cabinet Regulation No. 103
2 February 2010

Sample Driving Licence

[10 May 2011; 24 April 2012; 10 December 2013; 8 November 2016]

Front

Back

1. The front of the driving licence shall contain the following information:

1.1. "Driving Licence" - the name of the document;

1.2. "Republic of Latvia" - the name of the state (which issued the driving licence);

1.3. "LV" - the distinguishing sign of the state (which issued the driving licence), printed on a blue background and encircled by twelve yellow stars;

1.4. the surname of the holder of the driving licence (1);

1.5. the given name of the holder of the driving licence (2);

1.6. the date and place of birth of the holder of the driving licence (3);

1.7. the date of issue of the driving licence (4a);

1.8. the date of expiry of the driving licence (4b);

1.9. the name of the issuing authority of the driving licence (4c);

1.10. the personal identity number of the holder of the driving licence (4d);

1.11. the number of the driving licence (5);

1.12. the digital photograph of the holder of the driving licence which is made by the RTSD. The photograph shall conform to the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding personal identity documents (6);

1.13. the signature of the holder of the driving licence (7);

1.14. [24 April 2012];

1.15. the categories of vehicles the holder of the driving licence is entitled to drive (9);

1.16. the words "European Union model" and the words "Driving Licence" in other languages of the European Union states, printed in pink to form the background of the licence.

2. The back of the driving licence shall contain:

2.1. the table indicating the following information:

2.1.1. the categories of vehicles (9);

2.1.2. the dates of acquiring the right to drive vehicles of such categories which the holder of the driving licence has the right to drive (these dates must be repeated on the new driving licence in the event of subsequent replacement or exchange) - the numbers shall be indicated in the following order: day.month.year (DD.MM.YY) (10);

2.1.3. the dates of expiry of the right to drive vehicles of such categories which the holder of the driving licence has the right to drive - the numbers shall be indicated in the following order: day.month.year (DD.MM.YY) (11);

2.1.4. the codes of additional information or restrictions referred to in Paragraph 8 of this Annex (12);

2.2. the place where foreign institutions may indicate information which is of importance for administrating the driving licence (13);

2.3. [24 April 2012];

2.4. the explanation of the information indicated in Paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 4a, 4b, 5, 10, 11, and 12, of the driving licence.

3. The physical characteristics of the card of the driving licence shall be in accordance with the standards LVS ISO/IEC 7810:2011 "Identification cards. Physical characteristics" and LVS ISO/IEC 7816-1 "Identification cards. Cards with contacts".

4. The driving licence shall be made of polycarbonate.

5. Methods for testing the characteristics of driving licences for the purpose of confirming their compliance with the international standards shall be in accordance with the standard LVS ISO/IEC 10373-2006 "Identification cards".

6. The material used for the driving licence shall be ensured against counterfeit, using the following methods:

6.1. the characteristics of the card are clearly distinguishable under UV lighting;

6.2. a security background pattern designed to be resistant to counterfeit by scanning, printing or copying, using rainbow printing with multicolour security inks and positive and negative guilloche printing. The pattern shall not be composed of the primary colours (CMYK), shall contain complex pattern designs in a minimum of two special colours and shall include micro lettering;

6.3. optical variable elements providing adequate protection against copying and tampering of the photograph;

6.4. personalisation with laser engraving;

6.5. in the area of the photograph the security design background and photograph should overlap on at least its border (weakening pattern).

7. In addition to the methods referred to in Paragraph 6 of this Annex the driving licence shall be ensured against counterfeit with at least three of the following methods (it is permitted to also use other additional methods):

7.1. colour-shifting inks;

7.2. thermochromic ink;

7.3. custom holograms;

7.4. variable laser images;

7.5. ultraviolet fluorescent ink;

7.6. iridescent printing;

7.7. digital watermark in the background;

7.8. infrared or phosphorescent pigments;

7.9. tactile characters, symbols or patterns.

8. Codes and sub-codes of restrictions and additional information:

8.1. restriction codes determining that the driver of the vehicle must use:

8.1.1. sight correction and/or protection (01):

8.1.1.1. glasses (01.01);

8.1.1.2. contact lenses (01.02);

8.1.1.3. eye cover (01.05);

8.1.1.4. glasses or contact lenses (01.06);

8.1.1.5. specific optical aid (01.07);

8.1.2. hearing aid or communication aid (02);

8.1.3. prosthesis or orthosis for the limbs (03):

8.1.3.1. upper limb prosthesis/orthosis (03.01);

8.1.3.2. lower limb prosthesis/orthosis (03.02);

8.2. restriction codes determining that the driver of the vehicle is permitted to drive a car or a bus with:

8.2.1. modified transmission (10):

8.2.1.1. automatic transmission (10.02);

8.2.1.2. adapted transmission control device (10.04);

8.2.2. modified clutch (15):

8.2.2.1. adapted clutch pedal (15.01);

8.2.2.2. hand operated clutch (15.02);

8.2.2.3. automatic clutch (15.03);

8.2.2.4. measure to prevent obstruction or actuation of clutch pedal (15.04);

8.2.3. modified braking system (20):

8.2.3.1. adjusted brake pedal (20.01);

8.2.3.2. brake pedal suitable for use by left foot (20.03);

8.2.3.3. sliding brake pedal (20.04);

8.2.3.4. tilted brake pedal (20.05);

8.2.3.5. hand operated brake (20.06);

8.2.3.6. brake operation with maximum force of … N (20.07) (for example: "20.07(300N)");

8.2.3.7. adapted parking brake (20.09);

8.2.3.8. measure to prevent obstruction or actuation of brake pedal (20.12);

8.2.3.9. knee operated brake (20.13);

8.2.3.10. brake system operation supported by external force (20.14);

8.2.4. modified accelerator system (for example, with adapted accelerator pedal, accelerator pedal adapted for using with the whole foot, tilted accelerator pedal) (25):

8.2.4.1. adapted accelerator pedal (25.01);

8.2.4.2. tilted accelerator pedal (25.03);

8.2.4.3. hand operated accelerator (25.04);

8.2.4.4. knee operated accelerator (25.05);

8.2.4.5. accelerator operation supported by external force (25.06);

8.2.4.6. accelerator pedal on the left (25.08);

8.2.4.7. measure to prevent obstruction or actuation of accelerator pedal (25.09);

8.2.5. pedal adaptations and pedal safeguards (31):

8.2.5.1. extra set of parallel pedals (31.01);

8.2.5.2. pedals at (or almost at) the same level (31.02);

8.2.5.3. measure to prevent obstruction or actuation of accelerator and brake pedals when pedals not operated by foot (31.03);

8.2.5.4. raised floor (31.04);

8.2.6. combined service brake and accelerator systems (32):

8.2.6.1. accelerator and service brake as combined system operated by one hand (32.01);

8.2.6.2. accelerator and service brake as combined system operated by external force (33.02);

8.2.7. modified control layouts (lights switches, windscreen wiper/washer, horn, direction indicators, etc.) (35):

8.2.7.1. control devices operable without releasing the steering device (35.02);

8.2.7.2. control devices operable without releasing the steering device with the left hand (35.03);

8.2.7.3. control devices operable without releasing the steering device with the right hand (35.04);

8.2.7.4. control devices operable without releasing the steering device and the accelerator and braking mechanisms (35.05);

8.2.8. modified steering (for example, with an adapted (reinforced) assisted steering, lengthened steering column, adjusted steering wheel) (40):

8.2.8.1. Steering with maximum operation force of … N (40.01) (for example "40.01(140N)");

8.2.8.2. adapted steering wheel (larger/thicker steering wheel section, reduced diameter, etc.) (40.05);

8.2.8.3. adapted position of steering wheel (40.06);

8.2.8.4. foot operated steering (40.09);

8.2.8.5. assistive device at steering wheel (40.11);

8.2.8.6. one hand/arm operated alternative adapted steering system (40.14);

8.2.8.7. two hand/arm operated alternative adapted steering system (40.15);

8.2.9. modified rear/side view devices (42):

8.2.9.1. adapted device for rear view (42.01);

8.2.9.2. additional inside device permitting side view (42.03);

8.2.9.3. blind spot viewing device (42.05);

8.2.10. driver seating position (43):

8.2.10.1. driver seat height for normal view and in normal distance from the steering wheel and the pedals (43.01);

8.2.10.2. driver seat adapted to body shape (43.02);

8.2.10.3. driver seat with lateral support for good stability (43.03);

8.2.10.4. driver seat with armrest (43.04);

8.2.10.5. seat belt adaptation (43.06);

8.2.10.6. seat belt type with support for good stability (43.07);

8.3. restriction codes determining that the driver of the vehicle is permitted to drive a motorcycle (sub-code use obligatory):

8.3.1. single operated brake (44.01);

8.3.2. adapted front wheel brake (44.02);

8.3.3. adapted rear wheel brake (44.03);

8.3.4. adapted accelerator (44.04);

8.3.5. seat height allowing the driver, in sitting position, to have two feet on the surface at the same time and balance the motorcycle during stopping and standing (44.08);

8.3.6. maximum operation force of front wheel brake … N (44.09) (for example "44.09(140N)");

8.3.7. maximum operation force of rear wheel brake … N (44.10) (for example "44.10(240N)");

8.3.8. adapted foot-rest (44.11);

8.3.9. adapted hand grip (44.12);

8.4. restriction code determining that the driver of the vehicle is permitted to drive a motorcycle with side-car only (45);

8.5. restriction code determining that the driver of the vehicle is permitted to drive a tricycle only (46);

8.6. restriction code determining that the driver of the vehicle is permitted to drive vehicles of more than two wheels not requiring balance by the driver for starting, stopping and standing (47);

8.7. restriction code determining that the driver of the vehicle is permitted to drive a vehicle with a specific vehicle/chassis number. In addition to the code the identification number of the relevant vehicle shall be indicated in the driving licence (50);

8.8. the following letters shall be used in combination with codes 01 to 44 for further specification:

8.8.1. left (a);

8.8.2. right (b);

8.8.3. hand (c);

8.8.4. foot (d);

8.8.5. middle (e);

8.8.6. arm (f);

8.8.7. thumb (g);

8.9. the code of additional information which indicates that the driving licence has been issued upon exchanging a driving licence issued outside the European Union states (70). The number and issuing state of the exchanged driving licence shall be indicated after the code (for example, 70.12345678. RUS);

8.10. the code of additional information which indicates that the driving licence has been issued upon renewing a driving licence issued outside the European Union states (71). The number and issuing state of the exchanged driving licence shall be indicated after the code (for example, 71.12345678. RUS);

8.11. the restriction code determining that the driver is permitted to drive vehicles with automatic transmission only (78);

8.12. the code of additional information which indicates that the driver of the vehicle has met the requirements for the qualification of professional drivers in accordance with the procedures laid down in this Regulation (95). The date by which the driver must master the next course of periodic training shall be indicated after the code (for example, 95 (DD.MM.YY));

8.13. the code of additional information which indicates that it is permitted to drive a connection of a tractor of B category with a trailer the laden mass of which exceeds 750 kilograms, unless the laden mass of such connection exceeds 3500 kilograms, but does not exceed 4250 kilograms (96);

8.14. the code of additional information which indicates that the driver of the vehicle is permitted to drive a passenger public vehicle corresponding to D1 and D2 categories with automatic transmission in populated areas (100);

8.15. if the code or sub-code is applicable to all the categories of vehicles indicated in the driving licence, it may be included in Paragraphs 9, 10, and 11 of the driving licence.

9. The information inserted in the driving licence shall be clearly legible, the size of the characters indicated in Paragraphs 9, 10, 11, and 13 of the back of the driving licence shall be at least 5 points.

Annex 1.¹
Cabinet Regulation
2 February 2010

Sample Qualification Card of the Driver

[9 September 2014]

Front

Back

1. The front of the card shall contain the following information:

1.1. "Qualification Card of the Driver" - the name of the document;

1.2. "Republic of Latvia" - the name of the state (which issued the card);

1.3. "LV" - the distinguishing sign of the state (which issued the driving licence), printed on a blue background, encircled by twelve yellow stars;

1.4. the surname of the holder of the card (1);

1.5. the given name of the holder of the card (2);

1.6. the date and place of birth of the holder of the card (3);

1.7. the date of issue of the card (4a);

1.8. the date of expiry of the card (4b);

1.9. the name of the issuing authority of the card (4c);

1.10. the number of the driving licence (5a);

1.11. the number of the card (5b);

1.12. the digital photograph of the holder of the card which is made by the RTSD. The photograph shall conform to the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding personal identity documents (6);

1.13. the signature of the holder of the card (7);

1.14. the categories of vehicles for which the holder of the card has acquired professional knowledge (9);

1.15. the words "European Union model" and the words "Qualification Card of the Driver" in other languages of the European Union states, printed in blue to form the background of the card.

2. The back of the card shall contain:

2.1. the table indicating the following information:

2.1.1. the categories of vehicles for which the holder of the card has acquired professional knowledge (9);

2.1.2. the code of additional information referred to in Sub-paragraph 8.8 of Annex 1 to this Regulation and its expiry date (10);

2.2. explanation of the information indicated in Paragraphs 1, 2, 3, 4a, 4b, 4c, 5a, 5b, and 10 of the card.

3. The physical characteristics of the card shall conform to the requirements referred to in Paragraph 3 of Annex 1 to this Regulation.

4. The conformity of physical parameters of the card with the international standards shall be verified using methods which conform to the requirements referred to in Paragraph 5 of Annex 1 to this Regulation.

Annex 2
Cabinet Regulation No. 103
2 February 2010

Sample Learnerʼs Permit

[10 May 2011; 24 April 2012]

Front

Back

1. The following information shall be inserted in the front of a learnerʼs permit (hereinafter - the permit):

1.1. "Learnerʼs Permit" - the name of the document in Latvian, English, and French;

1.2. "Republic of Latvia" - the name of the state (which issued the licence) in Latvian;

1.3. the surname of the holder of the permit (1);

1.4. the given name of the holder of the permit (2);

1.5. the personal identity number of the holder of the permit (3);

1.6. the signature of the holder of the permit (4);

1.7. the place and date of issuing the permit (5);

1.8. the date of expiry of the permit (6);

1.9. the code of additional information or restrictions (7);

1.10. indication of the category of vehicles permitted to be driven (8);

1.11. the digital photograph of the holder of the permit which is made by the RTSD. The photograph shall conform to the requirements laid down in the laws and regulations regarding personal identity documents;

1.12. the series and number of the permit.

2. The back of the permit shall contain the following information:

2.1. explanation of the regulations for the use of the permit in Latvian "Šis dokuments apliecina tiesības mācīties vadīt tā priekšpusē norādītās kategorijas transportlīdzekļus. Mācību braucieni (izņemot braucienus norobežotos laukumos) drīkst notikt tikai apmācītāja klātbūtnē";

2.2. explanation of the regulations for the use of the licence in English "The present document authorises to learn driving of the vehicle categories mentioned on the other side. Driving exercises on road are allowed only under the supervision of the driving instructor";

2.3. "LV" - the distinguishing sign of the state (which issued the permit).

3. The physical characteristics of the permit shall be in accordance with the standards LVS ISO/IEC 7810:2011 "Identification cards. Physical characteristics" and LVS ISO/IEC 7816-1 "Identification cards. Cards with contacts".

4. The permit shall be made of polycarbonate.

5. Methods for testing the characteristics of permits for the purpose of confirming their compliance with the international standards shall be in accordance with the standard LVS ISO/IEC 10373-2006 "Identification cards".

6. The material used for the permit shall be ensured against counterfeit, using at least the following methods:

6.1. the characteristics of the card are clearly distinguishable under UV lighting;

6.2. a security background pattern designed to be resistant to counterfeit by scanning, printing or copying, using rainbow printing with multicolour security inks and positive and negative guilloche printing. The pattern shall not be composed of the primary colours (CMYK), shall contain complex pattern designs in a minimum of two special colours and shall include micro lettering;

6.3. [24 April 2012];

6.4. personalisation with laser engraving;

6.5. in the area of the photograph the security design background and photograph should overlap on at least its border (weakening pattern).

Annex 3
Cabinet Regulation No. 103
2 February 2010

Acquisition of the Right to Drive Vehicles of Different Categories

[10 May 2011; 10 December 2013; 5 January 2016]

Notes.

1. Theor. - must take theoretical test.

2. Driv. - must take driving test.

3. # - self-learning.

4. N.P. - not permitted.

5. * - the experience of a driver of A2 category vehicles is at least two years.

6. E - BE, C1E, D1E, CE or DE category of vehicles.

1. For a person to acquire the right to drive AM category vehicles, he or she shall pass a relevant theoretical test and driving test which includes the preparation for driving away referred to in Sub-paragraph 52.1 of this Regulation and the examination of knowledge regarding the vehicle, as well as execution of the manoeuvres referred to in Sub-paragraph 52.2 of this Regulation.

2. For a person who has the right to drive C1E category vehicles to acquire the right to drive CE category vehicles, he or she shall complete training courses for a driver of vehicles of C category and pass the theoretical test corresponding to C category and the driving test corresponding to CE category.

3. For a person who has the right to drive D category vehicles to acquire the right to drive CE category vehicles, he or she shall complete training courses for a driver of CE category vehicles and pass the theoretical test corresponding to C category and the driving test corresponding to CE category.

4. For a person who has the right to drive D1E category vehicles to acquire the right to drive DE category vehicles, he or she shall complete training courses for a driver of D category vehicles and pass a corresponding theoretical test, as well as the driving test corresponding to DE category.

5. If a person has acquired or is acquiring the right to drive C1E, CE, D1E or DE category vehicles, he or she shall be currently granted the driving licence for BE category.

6. If a person has acquired the right to drive CE category vehicles, then upon acquiring the right to drive D category vehicles he or she shall be currently granted the right to drive vehicles of DE category.

7. In order for a person who has completed training for drivers of 0/B and C1 category vehicles in accordance with the procedures laid down in the laws and regulations regarding training of vehicle drivers, to acquire a driving licence for both categories, he or she shall only take the theoretical test corresponding to C1 category, but the driving test shall be taken at first with a B category vehicle, afterwards - with a C1 category vehicle.

8. As an exception in accordance with Section 24 of the Road Traffic Law, persons who have reached 19 years of age and are in military service, upon a relevant submission of institutions of the Ministry of the Interior or the Ministry of Defence may acquire a driving licence:

8.1. for D1 and C category vehicles, if the person has the right to drive B category vehicles;

8.2. for D and CE category vehicles, if the person has the right to drive C1 category vehicles.

9. In order to acquire the right to drive vehicles of TRAM or TROL category, a person shall pass the theoretical test at the Road Traffic Safety Directorate, but the driving test shall be performed by the commission of an authorised training institution of the local government. In such case in addition to the documents referred to in Paragraph 19 of Cabinet Regulation No. 103 of 2 February 2010, Procedures for the Acquisition and Renewal of the Right to Drive Vehicles and Procedures for the Issuance, Exchange, Renewal and Destruction of the Driving Licence (hereinafter - the Cabinet Regulation), the person shall submit a document issued by the commission of an authorised training institution of the local government regarding the driving test passed.

10. For a person who has the right to drive TRAM or TROL category vehicles to acquire the right to drive B category vehicles, he or she shall pass the driving test with a B category vehicles.

11. In order to acquire the right to drive TROL category vehicles and the right to drive a passenger public vehicle corresponding to D1 and D categories in populated areas, a person shall pass the theoretical test at the Road Traffic Safety Directorate and the driving test for D category vehicles, but the driving test for TROL category vehicles shall be performed by the commission of the training institution. In such case it shall be permitted to take the driving test for D category vehicles with a vehicle with automatic transmission and the person, in addition to the documents referred to in Paragraph 19 of the Cabinet Regulation, shall submit to the Road Traffic Safety Directorate a document issued by the commission of the training institution that the person has acquired the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for driving a D category vehicle and has passed the driving test for TROL category vehicles.

12. For a person who has the right to drive TROL category vehicles to acquire the right to drive a passenger public vehicle corresponding to D1 and D category in populated areas, he or she shall pass the driving test for D category vehicles at the Road Traffic Safety Directorate. In such case it shall be permitted to take the driving test for D category vehicles with a vehicle with automatic transmission and the person, in addition to the documents referred to in Paragraph 19 of the Cabinet Regulation, shall submit to the Road Traffic Safety Directorate a document issued by the commission of the training institution that the person has acquired the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary for driving a D category vehicle.

Annex 4
Cabinet Regulation No. 103
2 February 2010

Sample Driving Licence for a Bicycle

[9 September 2014]

Minister for Transport K. Gerhards

Translation © 2017 Valsts valodas centrs (State Language Centre)