Zimbabwe Vehicle Registration

How to register a vehicle and transfer ownership in Zimbabwe

New Vehicle Registration

Newly imported or purchased vehicles must be registered with the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR).

Documents Needed

  • Customs clearance documents (for imported vehicles — from ZIMRA)
  • Proof of purchase (invoice or bill of sale)
  • National ID of the owner
  • Valid vehicle fitness certificate (how to get one)
  • Proof of insurance (third party minimum)
  • Completed registration form

Change of Ownership (Vehicle Transfer)

Seller's Documents

  • Vehicle registration book (original)
  • National ID (original and copy)
  • Completed transfer form (signed by seller)
  • Letter of no objection (if the vehicle has a bank loan)

Buyer's Documents

  • National ID (original and copy)
  • Proof of purchase (signed agreement of sale)
  • Valid vehicle fitness certificate
  • Proof of insurance
  • Completed registration form
Important: Both the seller and buyer should be present at the CVR office during the transfer. If one party cannot attend, a signed power of attorney and affidavit are required.

Step-by-Step Transfer Process

Get a Fitness Certificate

Take the vehicle to VID for a fitness test. You need a valid fitness certificate for the transfer.

Get Insurance

Obtain at least third-party insurance from any licensed insurance company.

Visit CVR or a Designated ZimPost Office

Both buyer and seller should go to the Central Vehicle Registry in Harare or a designated ZimPost office that offers CVR services.

Complete Transfer Forms

Both parties complete and sign the transfer forms. Submit all documents.

Pay the Transfer Fee

Pay the applicable transfer and registration fees.

New Registration Book Issued

A new registration book is issued in the buyer's name.

Fees (per SI 10 of 2026)

ServiceFee
First-time vehicle registrationUS$50
Change of ownership (retaining existing plates)US$15
Change of ownership with new plates (motor vehicles)US$95
Change of ownership with new plates (motorcycles/trailers)US$85
Payment: Fees are payable in US dollars or the equivalent in ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold) at the prevailing official exchange rate.

Where to Register

  • Central Vehicle Registry (CVR): 29 Robson Manyika Avenue, Causeway, Harare
  • ZimPost offices: Selected ZimPost offices across the country now offer CVR registration services, including in Bulawayo, Mutare, Gweru, Masvingo, Chinhoyi and other major towns
Note: Vehicle registration is handled exclusively by CVR (with services also available at designated ZimPost offices). ZINARA handles road tolling and annual vehicle licensing (disc fees), not vehicle registration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need to register a vehicle in Zimbabwe?
You need: the vehicle registration book, national IDs of buyer and seller, completed transfer forms, proof of purchase, valid fitness certificate, and proof of insurance.
Where do I register a vehicle?
At the Central Vehicle Registry (CVR) at 29 Robson Manyika Avenue, Causeway, Harare, or at designated ZimPost offices across the country that offer CVR services.
How much does vehicle registration cost?
Per SI 10 of 2026: first-time registration is US$50, change of ownership retaining existing plates is US$15, change of ownership with new plates is US$95 for motor vehicles or US$85 for motorcycles and trailers. Fees are payable in US dollars or ZiG at the prevailing official exchange rate.
Can I register a vehicle without a fitness certificate?
No. A valid fitness certificate is required for vehicle registration and transfer of ownership.

Need Transfer Documents?

Get vehicle transfer forms, affidavits and sale agreements.

Visit ZimDocs.co.zw