The mandatory vehicle inspections Uganda policy will officially begin in two weeks, as the Ministry of Works and Transport rolls out a nationwide inspection program. This follows the government’s recent decision to suspend the Automated Express Penalty Scheme (Auto EPS) for one month and reduce inspection fees across all vehicle categories.
New Affordable Inspection Fees Announced
According to the Ministry, motorists will now pay significantly lower inspection charges. For example, saloon cars and taxis will pay Shs40,000, a price valid for two years. Motorcycles, previously charged Shs22,000, will now pay Shs5,500. This cut comes in response to complaints from boda boda riders, who said the fees were unaffordable.
Heavy goods vehicles and buses, which once paid Shs140,000, will now pay Shs60,000. Most small vehicles, which form the bulk of Uganda’s road traffic, will pay between Shs40,000 and Shs45,000.
“We significantly reduced these charges to make inspections accessible,” said Mr Kharim Kibuuka, head of motor vehicle inspection at the ministry.
Government Takes Over Former SGS Centers
The government now manages seven inspection centers formerly operated by SGS Uganda Limited, a private firm that entered the sector in 2016. With financial obligations to SGS fully settled, the state has assumed control of all operations.
Previously, SGS opened Uganda’s first vehicle inspection center in Kawanda, just outside Kampala. Since then, it had managed all others until the government’s recent transition.
Under the new regime, non-commercial vehicles will undergo inspections every two years, while commercial vehicles must be inspected annually.
Certificate of Fitness Now Mandatory
Vehicles that pass inspection will receive a Certificate of Fitness, a legal document required for all vehicles using public roads. Mr Kibuuka noted that vehicles without a valid certificate will not be allowed on the road.
“Owners of failed vehicles will be granted a one-month grace period to fix the faults. If they don’t return in time, they’ll need to pay again,” he clarified.
The inspection program also aims to minimize the risk of mechanical-related accidents, which contribute significantly to Uganda’s traffic fatalities.
Road Safety Data Supports Reform
The Uganda Annual Crime and Traffic Safety Report attributes a high percentage of road accidents to faulty brakes, worn-out tyres, and poor lighting systems. These issues are most prevalent in vehicles classified as Dangerous Mechanical Conditions (DMCs).
To combat this, the Ministry has outlined strict inspection requirements. Every vehicle will be evaluated for the condition of:
- Brakes
- Steering and suspension systems
- Tyres and visibility aids
- Safety mechanisms (mirrors, lights, exhaust)
- Registration plates and emissions
Offenders who drive unsafe vehicles face fines ranging from Shs300,000 to Shs1.2 million, or prison terms between six months and two years.
Focus on Preventing Youth Road Fatalities
Each year, over 5,000 people die and more than 15,000 sustain injuries in road crashes. Alarmingly, more than 60% of the victims are under 35 years old.
Allan Ssempebwa, the ministry spokesperson, explained that many of these deaths could be avoided.
“Driver behavior and speeding cause nearly 45 percent of all crashes,” he said. “We need to enforce road discipline. But even without enforcement, drivers should pay attention to road signs and regulations.”
Stakeholders Support Preventive Maintenance
Mr Johnson Kibirige, Secretary General of the National Garage Owners Association, emphasized the role of routine vehicle checks.
“The saying ‘prevention is better than cure’ fits perfectly here,” he said. “Routine inspections ensure your car is reliable, safe, and cost-efficient.”
The upcoming mandatory vehicle inspections Uganda initiative represents a serious push toward improving road safety. With lower costs, government-managed centers, and legal enforcement, authorities aim to reduce accidents, save lives, and promote long-term vehicle care.
For more background on the rollout timeline, see this report on Uganda’s mandatory vehicle inspections starting July 2025. Related safety concerns include the recent Kampala-Gulu Highway crash in Nakasongola and the growing role of the EPSAuto camera system in Uganda’s traffic enforcement.