Vehicle Licensing and Registration Fees in Zimbabwe
Good news doesn’t come often for motorists in Zimbabwe, however vehicle registration fees in Zimbabwe have been reduced although vehicle licensing fees are unchanged. The reduced vehicle registration fees came into effect on 12.01.26, along with a welcome reduction in Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) Listeners’ License fees.
Motorists are benefitting from the long-awaited reduction in vehicle-related costs, first proposed early in 2025 when President Mnangagwa directed all ministries to review and reduce taxes, licences, and user fees. During 2025, we also saw a major pushback from the public regarding the cost of changing vehicle ownership, of up to $515! It’s no surprise that a significant number of vehicles on the road are not registered under the current owner’s name …
In some instances, the reductions are significant. For example, change of ownership on a motor vehicle reduces from $515 to $95 (when buying new plates). Similarly, a ZBC listeners’ licence for an employer-owned vehicle reduces to $30 per term, down from $67 per term.
Resources:
For context, vehicle registration fees are now covered by Statutory Instrument 10 of 2026, published on 12.01.26. Download a copy here: Statutory Instrument 10 of 2026
The vehicle licensing fees published in Statutory Instrument 67 of 2024 are unchanged since 27.09.24. (Note that this SI also included vehicle registration fees, however, these have now been amended by the new SI 10 of 2026). Download a copy of here: Statutory Instrument 67 of 2024
For clarification, we have published a Comparison Schedule of Vehicle Registration Fees, from September 2024 to January 2026. Download the Schedule here: Comparison Schedule of Vehicle Registration Fees Jan-26
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is it a legal requirement to replace the third plate with the new version?
No, it is not mandatory to replace the Third Plate. However, if the Third Plate is being transferred from an old windscreen to a new windscreen, it is advisable to purchase a replacement third plate. For more on the Third Plate, including replacement, read here: https://bigsky.co.zw/wp-content/uploads/Big-Sky-The-Third-Number-Plate-Jun-25.pdf
Is it a requirement to purchase new number plates when changing ownership?
No, it is not necessary to purchase new number plates. This is only a requirement if, for example, one number plate has been lost, or the new owner wishes to change the registration number.
Has the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) reduced the cost of vehicle ownership?
No. Whilst the fees charged by ZBC and Central Vehicle Registry (CVR) have come down, ZIMRA’s Special Excise Duty Rates still apply.
Readers are invited to ask any questions in the comments section below or add any information for the benefit of other vehicle owners.
Safe journeys,
Sean Q. and the Big Sky Team
ZBC Car Radio Exemptions – read more here.
January 2026
