Uganda has officially launched the third phase of its digital number plates programme as the government moves to modernise vehicle registration, strengthen road security and improve law enforcement capabilities.
The rollout, led by the Ministry of Works and Transport, began on January 6, 2025, marking a major transition in how registration plates are issued and managed across the country.
Digital Number Plates Rollout Begins
Under the new system, M/S Joint Stock Company Global Security has taken over responsibility for issuing digital number plates in Uganda.
Outgoing service providers GM Tumpeco and ABC Ltd were allowed to continue processing orders submitted before January 5, 2025, under transitional arrangements introduced by the government.
Vehicle owners and dealers were granted a 30-day grace period to collect plates processed under the previous providers before reapplication under the new system became necessary.
Read Also: How To Apply For New Digital Number Plates In Kenya
Costs for Digital Number Plates
The government outlined updated fees tied to the digital number plates programme.
First-time registration under the system costs UGX 714,300.
Meanwhile, motorists switching from older plates to digital versions are required to pay UGX 150,000 for vehicles and UGX 50,000 for motorcycles.
Authorities also introduced a two-year grace period for existing vehicle and motorcycle owners to complete the migration process.
Registration Centres Established Nationwide
To support implementation, the Ministry of Works and Transport established registration and fitting centres across multiple districts and border entry points.
Selected locations include Kampala, Arua, Gulu, Jinja, Mbale, Masaka, Mbarara and Kabale.
Several car bond facilities in Kampala were also designated as approved fitting centres.
Online Application Through URA Portal
Vehicle owners can apply for digital number plates through the Uganda Revenue Authority online portal.
Applicants are required to log in using their Tax Identification Number and access the “Registration for a Digital Plate” section to complete the process.
The government said the digital system is intended to streamline registration and reduce administrative delays.
Uganda Pushes Road Security Reforms
Officials say the digital number plates initiative forms part of broader efforts to improve road safety, strengthen vehicle identification systems and combat vehicle theft.
Authorities also expect the system to improve traffic monitoring, tax compliance and law enforcement investigations.
The rollout reflects increasing adoption of digital vehicle management technologies across several African countries.
Public Concerns and Transition Challenges
The digital number plates programme has attracted public attention over implementation costs and the logistics of nationwide migration.
Some motorists have also raised concerns about affordability and the pace of transition, particularly for commercial transport operators.
However, officials maintain the phased rollout and extended grace periods are intended to ease the transition process.
Outlook for Digital Number Plates in Uganda
Uganda’s government is expected to continue expanding registration centres and digital integration as implementation progresses nationwide.
Authorities say the system could eventually become central to broader smart transport and digital governance initiatives across the country.
Read Also: How to Apply for New Generation Number Plates in Kenya
