Harare Correspondent
Harare – The government has moved to clarify confusion surrounding driver’s licence renewals, confirming that while all motorists will now need a medical report to renew their licences, mandatory retesting applies only to professional drivers.
The clarification comes after public concern over reports suggesting blanket retesting for all drivers, sparking anxiety among motorists like 70-year-old Sekuru Moyo from Marondera.
“How will I book these retests? I don’t think I have the stamina for it. What if I fail?” Moyo questioned, reflecting widespread apprehension.
However, Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona told reporters that retesting remains exclusive to public service vehicle (PSV) and heavy freight drivers under Statutory Instrument 168 of 2006.
“There is no new proposal for a blanket retest system. The confusion stemmed from misinterpretations of the SADC licence renewal process,” Mhona said.
- Ordinary Drivers: Renewal after five years requires updated biometrics and a medical report—no road test.
- PSV & Heavy Vehicle Drivers: Mandatory retest every five years, plus annual medical checks.
The policy is anchored in Zimbabwe’s alarming road accident statistics. The Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe (TSCZ) reports that 94% of crashes result from human error, with speeding, phone use, and drunk driving as major contributors. Between 2019 and 2022, 8,897 fatalities were recorded.
“Retesting professional drivers ensures competency and curbs fake licences,” Mhona emphasized.
While some stakeholders back the measure, others argue for broader reforms.
Pious Chidzenga of the Zimbabwe Union of Drivers and Conductors said:
“Retesting experienced drivers is unnecessary, but regular medical checks are vital.”
Ngoni Katsvairo of the Greater Harare Association of Commuter Operators called for defensive driving courses every 2–3 years instead of retests:
“A 30-minute road test doesn’t add value. Continuous training does.”
Commuter omnibus driver Farai Chari warned of bottlenecks:
“VID is already overwhelmed. This will breed corruption due to delays.”
Minister Mhona noted Zimbabwe’s alignment with international standards, citing the UK’s retesting for passenger vehicle drivers. However, returnee Learnmore Zulu pointed out:
“In Australia, retests are rare unless for elderly drivers or serious offences.”
Stakeholders urge a holistic approach:
- Stiffer penalties for reckless driving
- Smart policing & infrastructure upgrades
- Crackdown on licence corruption
As the debate continues, the government maintains that medical checks for all and retests for professionals are critical to reducing road carnage.
“Whatever is necessary to bring sanity on the roads is welcome,” said TSCZ’s Munesu Munodawafa.
The policy aims to balance public safety with practicality, but its success hinges on efficient implementation and combating systemic corruption.
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