New Driving License in Egypt: All You Need to Know
Recently, images of the new Egyptian driving license have circulated on social media, sparking widespread reactions ranging from support to criticism. So, has the Egyptian Ministry of Interior actually issued a new license?
This development traces back to January 23, 2023, when the Ministry of Interior celebrated the 71st Police Day and highlighted its achievements in 2022, including the announcement of a completely new driving license.
Subsequently, the Ministry announced the gradual issuance of the new licenses in some low-population governorates as a pilot for the modern system. Among these governorates were Suez, Port Said, Red Sea, and Beni Suef.
The new driving license features integration with an advanced smart licensing system that aligns with international standards, based on previously signed international agreements, most notably the Vienna Convention of 1968. This enables holders to request recognition in several countries worldwide.
Moreover, the new license is equipped with smart encrypted chips containing all the license data, which can be read automatically through a portable detection device used by Ministry of Interior personnel, facilitating field checks and reducing forgery.
In terms of printing, the Ministry employed thermal transfer technology with secure inks and ultra-precise security marks, using high-quality materials to resist wear and tear, an issue prevalent with older licenses that caused numerous problems for their holders.
The issuance of the new license is part of the Ministry's plan to digitize its services for easier access and enhanced security for citizens. The new system contributes to speeding up field inspections, improving traffic flow, and reducing mobility obstacles.
The Ministry has incorporated all necessary data into the new license design, allowing holders to forgo carrying multiple licenses and instead possess a single license that covers all permitted vehicles—a standout feature of the modern license.
The new license also includes additional codes indicating specific conditions, such as the use of corrective eyewear, whether the driver has special needs, is under testing, or is in training.
Data Available on the New License
- Holder's name in Arabic and English
- Holder's date of birth
- License issuance date
- License expiration date
- Traffic unit affiliation
- License number and national ID number
- Signature of the issuing authority
- Holder's address
- Permitted vehicle categories
- Prohibited actions
- Nationality and profession
Vehicle Category Codes on the New License
- A: Motorcycles
- A1: Motorcycles under 125 cc
- B: Private cars and small trailer vehicles
- B1: Three-wheeled vehicles
- C: Light trucks
- C1: Light trucks over 4000 kg
- D: Buses
- D1: Microbuses with less than 26 passengers
- BE: Private cars with large trailers
- C1E: Heavy trucks with trailers
- CE: Trucks with container attachments
- DE: Buses with trailers
Additional Codes
- 01: Corrective eyewear
- 78: Automatic transmission
- S05: Special needs drivers
- 03: Assistive devices
- N1: Electric vehicles
- N2: Tractors
- N3: Heavy machinery
- N4: Buses with a capacity of less than 16,000 kg
- R1: Passenger capacity up to 17 passengers
- R2: Police personnel
- R3: Under testing
- R4: In training
Allowed load codes:
- P: Passengers
- G: Goods
- D: Hazardous goods
