4 November 2026, by Roadwise Mobility Uganda
How to Extend Your Driving Licence Class in Uganda: Requirements and Process
Want to add another category to your driving licence in Uganda? Discover the requirements, documents, fees and steps involved in extending your driving licence, including where to get official guidance.
How to Extend Your Driving Licence Class in Uganda: Requirements and Process
Have you ever thought about driving a different type of vehicle but realised that your current driving licence does not cover it?
Perhaps you already have a licence for a private car and would like to drive a truck, minibus or motorcycle. In Uganda, you may need to apply for a driving licence class extension before operating a vehicle in another category.
A class extension allows a driver to add another vehicle category to an existing driving licence, provided they meet the relevant requirements.
In this guide, we explain how the process works, the documents you may need and where to get official information before starting your application.
What Is a Driving Licence Class Extension?
A driving licence class extension is the process of adding an additional vehicle category to your existing driving licence.
For example, a person who holds Class B and wants to operate a qualifying goods vehicle may need to apply for an additional category.
The category you want to add determines the requirements you must meet. Some categories have age and experience conditions, while others require you to undergo training and pass the relevant driving test.
Who Can Apply for a Driving Licence Class Extension?
Not every driver automatically qualifies for every licence category.
Your eligibility depends on the category you currently hold and the one you want to add.
According to the UDLS class-extension guidance:
- Categories A, A1, B, B1 and G have their own learner licence and age requirements.
- Several heavier vehicle categories require an existing Class B licence.
- Certain passenger vehicle categories have additional age and driving experience requirements.
For example, the UDLS requirements list an age of 25 years for several heavier vehicle categories. For D1, D1E, D and DE, the published requirements also include five years of experience in Class B.
Always check the current eligibility table before making plans, because requirements differ between categories.
Requirements for Driving Licence Class Extension in Uganda
Before beginning the process, prepare the necessary documents.
The UDLS website lists the following documents for a class extension:
- National Identification
Ugandan applicants need proof of identification using their National Identification Number (NIN).
Foreign applicants should check the accepted identification documents, such as a valid passport or refugee identification card where applicable.
- Original Valid Driving Licence
You will need your existing valid driving licence. This helps establish the category you currently hold.
- Proof of Payment
You need the appropriate payment assessment or Payment Registration Number (PRN) and proof of payment for the required services.
- Inspectorate of Vehicles (IOV) Test Evidence
UDLS requires proof of the IOV test. Its published guidance lists a copy of the driving licence stamped by IOV.
Check with UDLS if you are unsure which documents to present for your particular category.
Step-by-Step: How to Extend Your Driving Licence Class
Here is a general explanation of the process.
Step 1: Identify the Category You Want to Add
First, decide which additional vehicle category you need.
For example, you may want to add a category for a goods vehicle, passenger vehicle or motorcycle.
Check the official class-extension eligibility table to establish whether your current licence and personal circumstances meet the requirements.
Step 2: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before paying any fees, confirm the age, existing licence category and driving experience requirements for your intended class.
This is particularly important when applying for heavier commercial or passenger vehicle categories.
Step 3: Arrange the Required Training
The official UDLS class-extension procedure includes training for the category being added.
The published procedure directs applicants to undertake the relevant training at a licensed driving school and obtain the required training documentation.
Choose a training provider that is authorised to provide the relevant training.
Step 4: Generate and Pay the Driving Test Assessment
Follow the current instructions on the URA portal or Ministry of Works and Transport e-services portal to generate the appropriate payment assessment.
Pay through an approved payment channel and keep your receipt.
Do not rely on old fee information without checking the current official charges.
Step 5: Attend the IOV Driving Test
After completing the required training and payment steps, follow the instructions for attending the Inspectorate of Vehicles driving test.
You will be assessed on your ability to operate the vehicle category you want to add.
If you pass, the IOV issues the Certificate of Competence (CoC) to UDLS.
Step 6: Pay the Class Extension Fee
Once you have met the test requirements, follow the official instructions to generate and pay the class-extension assessment.
Keep your payment receipt because you may need it when processing your updated licence.
Step 7: Visit UDLS to Process Your Updated Licence
Present the required documents and proof of payment at a UDLS office.
The licensing authority will process your application according to its procedures. Your additional category is subject to successful completion of the required steps and approval by the relevant authority.
How Much Does Driving Licence Class Extension Cost in Uganda?
The cost depends on the category being added.
The UDLS published rates list:
- Class extension for most categories: UGX 121,000 per class.
- Categories A, A1 and B1 only: a special UGX 60,000 rate in the stated circumstances.
- IOV driving test: UGX 25,000 according to the published test fee schedule.
There are special conditions for the reduced motorcycle and tricycle-related fees. For example, adding A, A1 or B1 to a licence that already has Class B or another category may attract different charges.
These figures are published fees, not a quotation for training or assistance. Confirm the applicable amounts before making payment because fees and procedures may change.
Where Can You Get Official Class Extension Information?
The Uganda Driver Licensing System (UDLS) provides official information about driving licence applications, renewals and class extensions.
You can visit its website here:
UDLS Class Extension Requirements: https://udls.co.ug/add-classes-to-your-licence/
UDLS Main Website: https://udls.co.ug/
You can also contact UDLS directly if you need clarification about your eligibility or application.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I add another class to my existing driving licence in Uganda?
Yes. You may apply to add another category if you meet the requirements for that particular class and complete the required training and testing.
- Do I need to attend a driving test for a class extension?
The official procedure includes an IOV driving test for the additional category. Applicants should follow the instructions for their specific class.
- Can I extend my licence from Class B to Class C?
You may be eligible, but you must meet the applicable age, existing licence, training and testing requirements. Confirm your eligibility with UDLS before beginning the process.
- Can I add more than one driving licence class at the same time?
UDLS indicates that applicants can apply to extend more than one class. Each additional class has its own applicable test and extension requirements and fees.
- Where do I pay for a driving licence class extension?
Follow the official payment instructions through the URA portal or Ministry of Works and Transport e-services portal. Approved payment methods include banks and specified electronic payment channels.
- Does paying the class extension fee guarantee approval?
No. Payment alone does not guarantee approval. You must satisfy the applicable requirements and successfully complete the required assessment and testing. If you are not familiar with the different licence categories, read our guide on link text
Final Thoughts
Adding another category to your driving licence can open up more opportunities, especially if you want to operate a different type of vehicle for personal or professional reasons.
The important thing is to understand the requirements before starting. Confirm your eligibility, prepare the necessary documents, complete the required training and follow the official application procedure.
At Roadwise Mobility Uganda, we provide driving-related information, licence application and class-extension guidance, and practical driving tips to help motorists understand the process.
If you need guidance on a driving licence class extension, contact us.
Disclaimer: Roadwise Mobility Uganda is an independent driving information and assistance service, not a government licensing authority or a licensed driving school. We do not issue driving licences or guarantee approval. All licence applications, tests and approvals are handled by the relevant authorities.
