Bulawayo, (New Ziana) – Government has reduced the cost of changing ownership of motor vehicles to US$15 for motorists who choose to retain existing number plates, following the gazetting of new vehicle registration and licensing regulations.
The changes are contained in Statutory Instrument 10 of 2026, formally cited as the Vehicle Registration and Licensing (Amendment) Regulations, 2026, issued by the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development.
In a statement, the Ministry said the amendments are aimed at streamlining vehicle registration processes and making compliance more affordable for motorists.
“The revised regulations seek to simplify vehicle registration and licensing while easing the cost burden on vehicle owners, particularly during change of ownership,” the Ministry said.
Under the new fee structure, motorists changing ownership of a motor vehicle will now pay US$15 if they retain existing number plates.
However, those opting for new plates will pay US$95.
For motorcycles and trailers, the change of ownership fee has similarly been reduced to US$15 when plates are retained, while motorists who choose new plates will pay US$85.
The regulations also set the cost of first-time registration for motor vehicles, motorcycles and trailers at US$50 each.
According to the Ministry, replacement of lost Public Service Vehicle (PSV) motor vehicle number plates will cost US$85, while replacement of PSV trailer plates will attract a fee of US$80. A duplicate third plate will cost US$35.
The new statutory instrument also maintains premium charges for personalised number plates. Personalised plates for motor vehicles with engine capacities of up to 1 500cc will cost US$2 500, while those above 1 500cc will attract a fee of US$5 000.
Other fees outlined in the regulations include US$50 for garage plates, garage licences and abnormal load plates (AVR).
The Ministry said the fees apply to vehicle registration and licensing services nationwide and are effective immediately following the gazetting of the statutory instrument.
The amendments come as government continues with efforts to modernise the vehicle registration system and improve service delivery within the transport sector.
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