Registering a bicycle in Uganda is handled by the Uganda Transport Licensing Board (TLB) under the Ministry of Works and Transport (MoWT). While the Local Government Act, Cap. 243 Regulation 13(g) provides for bicycle license revenue collection by local governments, this requirement is no longer enforced in practice. However, voluntary registration can help prove ownership and support identification in case of theft or disputes.
Even though the licensing system has largely been discontinued, understanding the registration process is important for recordkeeping and compliance with potential future reinstatements of the law.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Visit the Transport Licensing Board
Go to the Uganda Transport Licensing Board located at the Ministry of Works and Transport offices in Kampala.
Step 2: Pick and Fill the Registration Form
Request a bicycle license registration form from the reception or registration counter.
Fill it accurately with your Tax Identification Number (TIN), name, address, and bicycle details (type, model, serial number).
Step 3: Attach Required Documents
Prepare and attach the following to your filled form:
- National Identification Card
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of payment (if applicable)
- Completed health check report
- Full name and address of the bicycle owner
Step 4: Submit and Pay (if applicable)
Submit the application form at the designated counter.
Although the current framework does not enforce registration fees, a receipt is still issued upon submission for recordkeeping.
Step 5: Approval and Issuance
Once the application is reviewed and approved by the Licensing Officer, you will receive:
- Acknowledgment receipt
- Official Bicycle Licence Certificate confirming your ownership
The process is straightforward and typically completed within two hours.
Required Documents
- Bicycle license application form
- National Identification Card (NIN)
- Proof of payment (if applicable)
- Passport photographs
- Completed health check report
- Name and address of applicant
Office Locations & Contacts
Transport Licensing Board
Plot 1 Old Port Bell Road, Kampala
P.O. Box 23914, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 320 101/9, +256 414 236 646
Email: [email protected]
Website: Ministry of Works and Transport
Ministry of Works and Transport Headquarters
Off Jinja Road / Old Port Bell Rd, Kampala
P.O. Box 7174, Kampala
General: +256 414-320135 / 0414-321364
Fax: 0414-236369
Email: [email protected]
Uganda Revenue Authority (URA)
Plot M193/M194, Nakawa Industrial Area
P.O. Box 7279, Kampala, Uganda
Tel: +256 414 744000 / 0800117000 (Toll-Free)
Email: [email protected]
Website: Uganda Revenue Authority
Eligibility
All Ugandan citizens who own bicycles are eligible to register them.
Fees
Currently, no registration fees are enforced.
Validity
Once registered, a bicycle registration remains valid indefinitely unless the bicycle is sold or transferred to another owner.
Processing Time
The entire registration process takes approximately two hours.
Need for the Document
Although not legally required, registering a bicycle can:
- Serve as proof of ownership in case of loss or theft.
- Provide verification of ownership during sale or transfer.
- Support local government records and taxation planning under Cap. 243 of the Local Government Act.
Additional Information
- As per Government Act, Cap. 243 Regulation 13(g), local governments are authorized to collect revenue from bicycle licenses, though this is currently not enforced.
- No penalties are applied for unregistered bicycles at this time.
- The system may be reinstated in the future to enhance regulation, especially in urban areas.
Key Notes
- Do not use another person’s bicycle license or registration number.
- Keep your receipt and registration copy safe for future reference.
- For stolen bicycles, the Transport Licensing Board can use your registration record to help verify ownership.
