They just scrapped mandatory driver retesting entirely. The government eliminated the rule, signaling a major deregulation push for the transport sector. Transport Minister Felix Mhona confirmed the change, instructing law enforcement that compliance is no longer enforceable. This move aims to cut red tape and lower operating costs across the industry.
Previously, drivers of public service vehicles and trucks faced periodic practical assessments by the Vehicle Inspectorate Department. That requirement attracted complaints about duplicated processes, extra fees, and wasted time. The retesting fee itself costs around thirty dollars, not including lost productivity during appointments.
A broader review also slashed various official charges. First-time motor vehicle registration plummeted to fifty dollars from five hundred. Change of ownership fees, including new plates, now cost ninety-five dollars instead of five hundred fifteen. Route permits and cross-border permits saw drastic reductions as well.
The reforms standardize operator licence fees at one hundred twenty-five dollars. Requirements for a Garage Inspection Report and the retesting fee have been completely removed. These changes follow a presidential directive to review taxes and fees, targeting overlapping or punitive charges. The government states the overhaul will create a more predictable and business-friendly environment for transport operators.
Previously, drivers of public service vehicles and trucks faced periodic practical assessments by the Vehicle Inspectorate Department. That requirement attracted complaints about duplicated processes, extra fees, and wasted time. The retesting fee itself costs around thirty dollars, not including lost productivity during appointments.
A broader review also slashed various official charges. First-time motor vehicle registration plummeted to fifty dollars from five hundred. Change of ownership fees, including new plates, now cost ninety-five dollars instead of five hundred fifteen. Route permits and cross-border permits saw drastic reductions as well.
The reforms standardize operator licence fees at one hundred twenty-five dollars. Requirements for a Garage Inspection Report and the retesting fee have been completely removed. These changes follow a presidential directive to review taxes and fees, targeting overlapping or punitive charges. The government states the overhaul will create a more predictable and business-friendly environment for transport operators.
