Order Tonga Driving License: Fast and Easy Guide for New Drivers

So, I needed to get a Tongan driving license. I heard about it a while ago, I think it was back in May 2012, someone mentioned that you need one to drive around in Tonga. Not sure why my regular license wouldn’t be enough, but whatever, rules are rules, I guess.

I did a little digging and found out that the Traffic Office on Bypass Road is the place to go. I think it was sometime around December 19, 2023, that I finally decided to go check it out. You have to apply in person, which is a bit of a hassle, but I figured it’s better to get it sorted.

When I got there, I found out that it’s called a “Visitor Driving License”, which is basically a temporary license. The process wasn’t too bad, but the speed limit thing caught my attention. They drive slow there, like 40km/h slow. And everyone sticks to it! It’s kind of nice, but also a bit frustrating if you’re in a hurry.

Anyway, I paid the fee, I think it was around TOP 25. It is mentioned that you’re supposed to buy this on top of your existing license. I know the roads are good in and around the capital, Nuku’alofa, but from what I’ve heard, they get worse the further you go out. So, I gotta be prepared for some bumpy rides, I suppose.

I saw some info about other services too. Like, they issue new driving licenses, renew old ones, and handle vehicle stuff, such as vehicle licenses, new vehicle registrations, and annual vehicle examinations. Sounds like they got everything covered, which is good.

Here’s a quick rundown of what I did:

• Heard about needing a Tongan license to drive there.
• Found out the Traffic Office on Bypass Road is the place to go.
• Went there in person to apply for a Visitor Driving License.
• Learned about the 40km/h speed limit and paid the TOP 25 fee.
• Discovered they also handle other driving and vehicle-related services.

Getting that license wasn’t too much of a headache, but it’s definitely something you need to do if you plan on driving in Tonga. Just remember to take it slow, and watch out for those rough roads outside of the capital!