By Rex Mphisa
THE Government has finally walked its talk and reduced the cost of number plates from $100 and $500 to $50 for new registrations.
But those wishing to have personalised plates will fork out $2 500 for cars with a capacity of 1500 cc and below.
Those with engines higher than 1500 cc will pay $5 000 under the new law.
The new prices were announced along with several other reduced costs in Statutory Instrument number 10 of 2026 called Vehicle Registration and Licensing (Amendment) Regulations, 2026 by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructural Development (Felix Mhona) has, in terms of section 52 of the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act [Chapter 13:14].
Mhona repealed part 1 of the Third Schedule to the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Regulations 1999, published in Statutory Instrument 427 of 1999.
First time Motor Vehicle Registration will now cost US$50 similar to first Time Motor Cycle Registration and initial Trailor Registration.
Change of ownership for Motor Vehicle (buying new plates) will cost US$95 but if one retains old plates it will be US$15.
Change of ownership for Motor Cycle/Trailer (buying new plates) will cost US$85 and change of ownership for Motor Cycle/Trailer (retaining Plates will be US$15.
Replacement of lost Passenger Service Vehicle (PSV) number plates will be US$85 and replacement PSV trailer number plate will now be US$80.
A duplicate Third Plate now costs US$35.
A garage number plate will cost US$50 and the licence for a garage has been put at US$50.
An Abnormal Load Plate (AVR) now costs US$50.