How to Renew Your Driver’s License in Uganda

A driver’s license is an official government-issued document that authorizes an individual to operate one or more types of motorized vehicles on public roads. In Uganda, it serves as both a legal permission to drive and an important form of identification. The Ugandan driver’s license includes personal information, a photograph, the types of vehicles you’re qualified to operate (classes), any specific restrictions, and an expiration date. Beyond its primary purpose of regulating road safety by ensuring drivers meet minimum competency standards, a driver’s license in Uganda is also often used as a recognized ID for banking, voting, and other official transactions.

Renewing your driver’s license in Uganda is a straightforward process when you know the requirements and procedures. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about renewing your Ugandan driver’s license efficiently and with minimal hassle.

When to Renew Your License

In Uganda, driver’s licenses typically have a validity period of three years. It’s advisable to begin the renewal process at least one month before your current license expires. Driving with an expired license can result in:

Fines ranging from UGX 100,000 to 300,000
Potential vehicle impoundment
Insurance complications in case of accidents
Legal issues during traffic stops

Renewal Options in Uganda

The Face Technologies company previously handled license issuance and renewals in Uganda until 2020. Currently, the Uganda Security Printing Company (USPC) manages the process through:

Online pre-application through the Ministry of Works and Transport e-services portal
In-person visits to designated licensing centers throughout the country

Required Documents for License Renewal

To successfully renew your Ugandan driver’s license, prepare the following documents:

Your current/expired driver’s license
National ID (for Ugandan citizens) or passport (for foreign nationals)
Work permit or resident permit (for non-citizens)
Completed application form (Form MVR 4) available at licensing centers or downloadable online
Proof of payment for renewal fees
Two recent passport-sized photographs with a blue background
Medical examination certificate from a recognized health facility

Step-by-Step Renewal Process

Step 1: Online Pre-Application (Recommended)

Visit the Ministry of Works and Transport e-services portal (ursb.go.ug)
Create an account or login if you already have one
Select “Driver’s License Renewal” from the services menu
Complete the online application form with personal details
Upload the required documents
Schedule an appointment at your preferred licensing center
Print your application confirmation

Step 2: Fee Payment

The current renewal fees are:

One-year renewal: UGX 50,000
Three-year renewal: UGX 130,000
Five-year renewal: UGX 200,000

Payment options include:

Mobile Money: MTN or Airtel mobile money platforms (dial *165# for MTN or *185# for Airtel)
Bank Transfer: To the Uganda Revenue Authority account (details available at licensing centers)
Direct Payment: At authorized licensing centers with electronic payment facilities

Always keep your payment receipt as proof of transaction.

Step 3: Medical Examination

Visit any authorized medical facility
Complete a basic physical examination that checks:
- Vision acuity
- Color recognition
- Basic physical fitness to operate a vehicle
Obtain a signed and stamped medical certificate
The medical certificate fee typically ranges from UGX 20,000 to 50,000 depending on the facility

Step 4: Visit to the Licensing Center

Arrive at your scheduled appointment time with all required documents
Submit your application form and supporting documents
Verify your biometric data (fingerprints and photograph)
Pay any additional fees if applicable

Step 5: License Collection

You will be issued a temporary paper license valid for 30-60 days
Your permanent license will be ready for collection within 1-3 weeks
You will receive an SMS notification when your license is ready for pickup
Collect your license from the same licensing center where you applied

Main Licensing Centers in Uganda

The primary driver’s license renewal centers in Uganda include:

Kampala: Uganda Railways Corporation Building, Jinja Road
Jinja: Main Street, opposite Jinja Municipal Council
Mbale: Republic Street, near the Post Office
Gulu: Gulu Avenue, near Kaunda Grounds
Mbarara: High Street, next to Mbarara Municipal Council
Arua: Avenue Road, near Arua Hospital
Fort Portal: Lugard Road, near Boma Grounds

Most centers operate Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Expedited Renewal Process

For those who need their license urgently, an express service is available at most licensing centers:

Express Processing: 1-3 business days
Additional Fee: UGX 50,000
Availability: Limited to certain centers (primarily Kampala)

Renewal by Proxy

If you are unable to appear in person due to illness, being abroad, or other valid reasons:

Provide an authorization letter to your representative
Include a copy of your ID and the representative’s ID
Your representative must bring all the required documents
Note that biometric verification might still require your presence eventually

Foreign License Conversion and Renewal

For expatriates and foreign nationals:

A valid work permit or resident permit is required
Your home country license must be valid and authenticated
Additional documentation may be required based on your nationality
Some nationalities may need to take a knowledge test
Renewal follows the same process as for citizens once the license is converted

Common Challenges and Solutions

Lost or Stolen License

File a police report at the nearest police station
Obtain a police abstract/report
Include this report with your renewal application
Pay an additional replacement fee of UGX 50,000

Name Discrepancies

Provide legal documentation of any name changes
Submit an affidavit from a commissioner of oaths
Include your original identification documents

System Downtimes

Consider applying during off-peak hours (early morning)
Always call ahead to confirm system availability
Have patience as technical issues are resolved

Post-Renewal Information

After receiving your renewed license:

Check all details for accuracy
Report any errors immediately for correction
Keep a photocopy of your license separately
Consider storing a digital copy on your phone
Remember the expiration date and set a reminder for the next renewal

Renewing your driver’s license in Uganda requires proper planning and documentation, but the process has been streamlined in recent years. By following this guide and preparing all necessary documents, you can ensure a smooth renewal experience. Remember that driving with an expired license is both illegal and potentially problematic for insurance coverage, so prioritize timely renewal to avoid complications.

Are you looking to renew your driver’s license in Uganda this 2025, the step-by-step guide will help you all the way. Still not sure- let us help you, just contact us now by sending an email to info@rentadriveruganda.com