The government has launched a new hi-tech plastic driver’s licence with security features aimed at reducing unqualified drivers and improving road safety.
The new licence is SADC, COMESA and East African Community compliant and will replace the old metal licence card.
Transport Minister Felix Mhona officially launched the new licence, along with an electronic learner licence testing system and digital route permit system.
Drivers will be issued the new licence instantly after passing their tests. In future, professional drivers will need to renew their licences every two years, taking eye tests to assess their vision.
The polycarbonate plastic licence has multiple security features to prevent forgery, including being scannable to verify authenticity and detect legal issues.
Minister Mhona said the upgrades fulfil the ministry’s plan to modernise the transport sector. He said the licence will be valid for driving in all 25 SADC countries without conversion.
The new licence categories will be based on vehicle size to ensure drivers are qualified to handle the vehicles they operate.
Mhona said: “It is sad the death toll on the roads is still unacceptably high. We are committed to continuously develop and implement road safety.”
The crackdown on unqualified and unfit drivers through new licence requirements and security features could save lives by weeding intoxicated, disqualified and visually impaired motorists off the roads. Hopefully the high-tech upgrades will reduce accidents and make roads safer for all Zimbabweans.
