Get ready, Nigeria. The cost of legally driving on the road is about to go up.
As many have described it, this move appears to be another blow to the already overburdened finances of citizens. The Joint Tax Board (JTB) has now approved an upward review of the prices for vehicle number plates and driver’s licence applications and renewals across the country.
The new pricing system will kick off from Sunday, June 8, 2025 — and yes, it’s across board
According to a public notice from the JTB — Nigeria’s top revenue body — all Motor Vehicle Licensing Authorities (MLA) and the appropriate government bodies have been instructed to begin implementation of the new rates.
New Fee Structure: Here’s What It Now Costs
Driver’s Licence
Private Motor Vehicle:
- 3 years: ₦15,000
- 5 years: ₦21,000
Motorcycle or Tricycle:
- 3 years: ₦7,000
- 5 years: ₦11,000
Number Plates
- Standard Plate (Private or Commercial): ₦30,000
- Articulated Trucks: ₦90,000
- Dealer Plate: ₦100,000
- Out-of-Series Plate: ₦150,000
- Fancy Plate: ₦400,000
- Government Standard Plate: ₦80,000
- Government Fancy Plate: ₦120,000
Motorcycle Number Plates
- Standard: ₦12,000
- Fancy: ₦50,000
- Government Standard: ₦20,000
- Government Fancy: ₦50,000
Why These New Charges?
The JTB has explained that the updated fees are due to the addition of new security elements in the design of both number plates and licences, as well as higher production expenses.
They also advised citizens to avoid dealing with touts and to make use of official channels only. You can visit:
- FRSC official site
- National Vehicle Identification Portal
Or go to your nearest licensing office for more details.
Final Thought
Let’s be honest — this feels like a slap in the face during an economic chokehold. With inflation spiraling, ₦70,000 minimum wage still pending, and food/fuel costs climbing, many Nigerians are already struggling to survive.
Will this price hike end up causing more people to opt for fake documents? Will compliance reduce?
How do you expect a bus driver or okada rider who’s barely surviving to pay ₦400,000 for a fancy number plate?
