Challenges in Obtaining Driver’s Licences in Nigeria
Motorists across Nigeria are facing significant difficulties in obtaining or renewing their driver’s licences, with many reporting long delays and frustrating experiences at the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) offices. The issue has become a growing concern, as delays not only inconvenience drivers but also lead to harassment by law enforcement and other complications.
The Nigerian driver’s licence system is managed by the FRSC in collaboration with state licensing authorities. However, numerous motorists have reported that the process is riddled with inefficiencies. According to reports, applicants are typically required to undergo biometric capturing before receiving a temporary licence valid for 60 days. Unfortunately, many drivers are left waiting for months without receiving their permanent plastic cards, which can lead to further problems on the roads.
Personal Experiences of Motorists
Paul Samson, a motorist who travels between Central Area and Mararaba in Nasarawa State, shared his struggles with the system. He applied in August 2024, underwent biometric capturing in September, and was told to return in November. However, he did not receive his permanent licence until July 2025. His temporary licence had already expired by then, leaving him vulnerable to harassment from law enforcers.
Similarly, Alice Clement, a driver from Niger State, described her experience with the system. She said that each time she visited the office, she was told there were network issues. It took nearly nine months before she finally received her licence, which she described as an extremely poor process.
Mr. Ebere Chukwudi, another motorist, faced similar challenges at the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in Gwagwalada. Despite paying and having his data captured, he was unable to obtain his licence after three months. He claimed that FRSC personnel frequently stopped him on the Kubwa expressway, demanding his licence and vehicle papers. Each time he tried to explain the situation, he was booked.
Abdullahi Yahaya, a motorist from Kano, also expressed frustration over the delays in renewing his expired driver’s licence. He made multiple visits to both the FRSC and VIO offices but was unsuccessful in obtaining a new one. His inquiries to officials for explanations yielded no satisfactory responses.
Systemic Issues and Possible Causes
Many drivers believe that the root cause of these delays lies in inefficiencies within the system. Agbo Daniel, a commercial motorist, noted that the process starts with payment, which can take up to three days before officials confirm the transaction. After that, data capturing takes place, followed by a month-long wait for the temporary licence. The final step, collecting the permanent licence, can take even longer.
Saminu Sani recounted his own experience of rushing to renew his licence upon its expiration, only to be disappointed by the lengthy process. He alleged that corruption is deeply embedded in the system and urged the government to declare a state of emergency on the issue.
A retired FRSC personnel, Abubakar Shehu, suggested that the delay might be due to ongoing upgrades to the driver’s licence. He mentioned that even after paying for the service, some individuals still haven’t received their licences. A VIO official attributed the problem to bureaucratic processes from the FRSC headquarters in Abuja, stating that the FRSC handles the core licensing process.
Historical Context and Reforms
In 2012, the FRSC introduced a digital driver’s licence scheme, promising faster processing and improved security. However, more than a decade later, many motorists still face the same issues. Complaints about poor data management, network downtime, and central printing backlogs remain widespread.
Mudi Shuaibu, a driver who obtained his licence in 1988, recalled how the process was more straightforward in the past. He said that applicants were interviewed at the VIO office and issued their licences immediately after passing the test. Today, he claims that licences can be acquired without visiting any office, often through unofficial channels.
Consequences of Delays
For many applicants, the delays are not just an inconvenience but carry real consequences. Expired temporary licences expose motorists to harassment by security officials, fines, and sometimes extortion. The driver’s licence also serves as a primary means of identification for banking, voter registration, and regional travel within ECOWAS, further compounding the impact of the inefficiencies.
FRSC Response
Reacting to the delays, the FRSC’s public education officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, noted that the process involves biometric capturing and backend investigations. He mentioned that technical challenges are currently being addressed, with around 228,000 licences yet to be picked up nationwide.
Felix Therman, the FCT sector commander of the FRSC, revealed that over 25,000 processed driver’s licences remain uncollected in the FCT. He admitted that some drivers refuse to claim their licences despite repeated public calls. He also acknowledged that challenges for some motorists are due to the ongoing upgrade of the licence, which involves changing some features. He concluded that the driver’s licence will be available in the next two to three weeks.
