If you plan to drive in Nigeria, you may encounter several road agencies on the roads. To avoid any legal problems with these agencies while driving in Nigeria, you must keep certain essential car documents with you at all times.
This article on IchieTech will provide you with the list of necessary car documents required to operate a vehicle on public roads in Nigeria. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into it.
List of Important Car Particulars or Documents Every Driver Must Have in Nigeria
| Digit | Documents |
| 1 | Drivers License |
| 2 | Proof of Ownership |
| 3 | Insurance Certificate |
| 4 | Certificate of Roadworthiness |
| 5 | Vehicle License |
| 6 | Vehicle Identification Number |
| 7 | Hackney Permit |
| 8 | Tinted Glass Permit |
| 9 | Custom Papers |
1. Drivers License
The process of obtaining a driver’s license in Nigeria involves both written and practical tests. In Nigeria, a driver’s license is a crucial legal document that allows an individual to drive on public roads.
To obtain a driver’s license, applicants must first apply to either the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) or the Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) in their state of residence. The application process requires applicants to provide personal information such as their name, address, age, and contact details.
How To Get Your Driver’s License in Nigeria
- Complete the driver’s licence application form online.
- Visit VIO for a driving test.
- Pay the licence fee online or at the Bank.
- Confirm payment at the State BIR Office.
- Proceed to the FRSC Officer at the DLC for biometric data capture.
- Visit your DLC/MLA/VIO and present your application form or temporary card to pick up your original licence card.
2. Proof of Ownership
To drive a vehicle in Nigeria, it is necessary to provide evidence of ownership. Such evidence can be in the form of a vehicle registration certificate, bill of sale, or any other relevant document that demonstrates legal ownership of the vehicle. It is essential to have proof of ownership readily available when driving to comply with legal requirements.
3. Insurance Certificate
Having a valid insurance policy for your vehicle is mandatory in Nigeria, and it is required to have a certificate of insurance as evidence of coverage. This certificate serves as proof that you have purchased an insurance policy to cover potential damages or losses that may result from driving. It is essential to have this certificate readily available when driving to comply with legal requirements.
4. Certificate of Roadworthiness
After a successful roadworthiness test, the FRSC issues a document certifying that the vehicle has passed the test. The roadworthiness test is designed to verify the functionality of critical vehicle components such as brakes, lights, tires, and steering, among others, to ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive on Nigerian roads.
It is crucial to obtain this document from the FRSC to demonstrate that the vehicle is roadworthy and in compliance with Nigerian road safety regulations.
5. Vehicle License
A valid license plate issued by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is a requirement for any vehicle driven on Nigerian roads. This license plate serves as evidence that the vehicle has been registered with the government and meets the necessary roadworthiness standards.
It is essential to have this document available when driving to comply with legal requirements and to demonstrate that the vehicle is in compliance with Nigerian road safety regulations.
Also read:
Tinted Glass Permit in Nigeria: Requirements and How to Apply
Best Family Cars to Buy in Nigeria
6. Vehicle Identification Number
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is a distinctive code allocated to every vehicle, serving as a means of identification in the event of theft or other legal concerns.
It is crucial to keep your VIN number accessible at all times in case you need to provide it to law enforcement. This code helps identify your car and is an essential tool for law enforcement authorities when investigating a stolen vehicle or other related legal issues.
7. Hackney Permit
A Hackney Permit is a legally required permit in Nigeria that allows commercial vehicles, including taxis and buses, to operate for hire on a designated route or within a specific area.
This permit is only for those who want to use their vehicles for commercial purposes and does not apply to private vehicle owners.
The permit is issued by the local government council or the State Ministry of Transportation, depending on the state in which the vehicle operates. Obtaining a Hackney Permit is essential for commercial vehicle owners and operators, as it is a legal requirement for operating a commercial vehicle for hire in Nigeria.
8. Tinted Glass Permit (Not Compulsory)
A Tinted Glass Permit which used to be an important member of the car documents listed one this article is no longer a mandatory legal permit required in Nigeria for individuals to have tinted windows on their vehicles. The permit was previously issued by the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and was compulsory for all vehicles with tinted windows.
Obtaining a Tinted Glass Permit is a legal requirement for vehicle owners in Nigeria, and failure to comply with this regulation can result in penalties or legal consequences.
In order to obtain a Tinted Glass Permit in Nigeria, the following procedures must be followed:
- Firstly, visit the Nigeria Police Force: You will be required to go to the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and request an application form for the Tinted Glass Permit.
- Fill out the application form: You will need to provide personal information, vehicle information, and the purpose for which you require the tinted windows. Additionally, you will need to specify the level of tint you desire for your windows.
- Submit the required documents: Documents such as your driver’s license, vehicle registration papers, and a valid identification document, such as a National Identity Card or International Passport, must be provided.
- Submit the application form and required documents: Once you have completed the application form and gathered the required documents, you will need to submit them to the NPF office.
- Pay the processing fee: A processing fee for the Tinted Glass Permit application will be charged, and you will be required to pay this fee.
- Wait for approval: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for approval from the NPF. If approved, you will receive a Tinted Glass Permit that permits you to have tinted windows on your vehicle.
9. Custom Papers
To import cars into Nigeria, custom papers are a requirement as they serve as proof that the vehicle has been legally imported into the country and that all the essential customs duties and fees have been paid. The possession of these papers is critical for vehicle importers to adhere to Nigerian importation laws and regulations and to evade any legal penalties or consequences that may arise due to non-compliance.
Conclusion
It is very important to ensure that all the required car documents are up-to-date and easily accessible while driving in Nigeria. Failure to possess the necessary documents may result in fines, the impoundment of the vehicle, or other legal consequences. Therefore, it is essential to keep all required car documents updated and readily available while driving on Nigerian roads.
