There Is NO 7-Day Grace Period For Expired Car Licences: ZINARA Clarifies

No Grace Period For Expired Car Licenses In Zimbabwe: ZINARA

Motorists across Zimbabwe have been put on high alert following a crucial clarification from the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA). The authority has officially declared that the widely believed 7-day grace period for renewing vehicle licences is a complete myth. Driving with an expired licence, even for a single day, could expose motorists to immediate action from law enforcement.

The announcement was made in an internal ZINARA memo dated October 2025, circulated to staff to ensure consistent communication. The administration is taking a firm stance, pointing motorists directly to the letter of the law.

The law is clear: no grace period exists

In a move to shatter long-held assumptions, ZINARA referred directly to the legislation that governs vehicle licensing. The authority confirmed that its operations are bound by statute, which offers no leniency for late renewals.

In its notice, ZINARA said:

“ZINARA does not offer a 7-day grace period for vehicle licensing. Our operations are in accordance with Part IV to the Vehicle Registration and Licensing Act [Chapter 13:14], and in terms of this legislation no such grace period is provided for.”

This means that from the very first day after a licence disc expires, a vehicle is technically non-compliant. Although ZINARA itself may not impose a financial penalty immediately, the vehicle becomes subject to arrest or detention by law enforcement agencies.

When penalties actually start and how to avoid them

While police officers can take action as soon as a licence expires, ZINARA’s own financial penalties follow a different timeline.

The notice explained:

“Penalties for failure to renew vehicle licences start to accrue 30 calendar days after the expiry date. During this period, the vehicle is categorised as non-compliant and will be liable for any arrest or detention by law enforcement agents.”

To prevent this, the authority urged motorists to act early.

“Renewal can be done within 60 days prior to the date of expiry (ie two months before expiry) to avoid penalties,” ZINARA added.

Where to renew your vehicle licence

To make compliance easier, ZINARA listed several channels for motorists to renew their discs. These include ZINARA licensing offices, selected tollgates, and registered licensing agents nationwide.

The authority also stressed that digital renewals are available through its online platform and through accredited agents. The move is aimed at encouraging more motorists to stay compliant as ZINARA pushes towards its target of licensing one million vehicles.