8 essential documents you need as a car owner in Nigeria
Car owners in Nigeria can avoid fines, impounding, or legal trouble while driving if they have the right documents.
These documents are not only legal but also stop corrupt law enforcement agents from harassment.
Every document, from insurance certificates to driver’s licenses, has a specific function in keeping the road safe and orderly for the benefit of everyone.
Here are 8 essential documents you need as a car owner in Nigeria
Vehicle License
The Vehicle License is usually displayed on the windscreen to show that a car is officially registered and licensed for use on Nigerian roads. It is an annual permit that includes important information such as the car’s registration number, the owner’s details, the engine number, and the chassis number.
Certificate of Roadworthiness
This is the document that indicates that your car is fit and ready to play on the road for a while. Drivers with this document have successfully avoided being harassed by VIO and other road officials. You can obtain it from authorized vehicle inspection centers.
Driver’s License
This is the number one document that permits a car owner to drive a car. This document certifies that a driver is qualified to drive. A valid driver’s license can be obtained from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC). Driving without it can result in penalties.
Insurance Certificate
The Insurance Certificate Proof that your vehicle is insured. The most common type in Nigeria is third-party insurance, which covers any injuries or property damage done to third parties if the insured vehicle is involved in an accident.
The certificate serves as proof that the car is insured and acts as evidence of that fact.
Proof of Ownership
This document is the Original Purchase Receipt or invoice that certifies that you are the legal owner of the vehicle. It could be the purchase receipt, a bill of sale, or a transfer of ownership document and all of the vehicle’s specifications, including the make, model, manufactured year, and seller’s details, are stated in this document.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Every car has a unique identifier that helps track its history. It is required for registration and insurance claims. If you are buying a used car, ensure that the VIN on the car is the same as the one on all official documents for easy verification.
This is particularly important for commercial cars like a taxi and should be given to you at the point of registering your vehicle. A hackney permit allows commercial drivers to legally transport goods or passengers for hire within specific areas.
Customs Documentation
This is a document every car is expected to have in Nigeria. Since Nigeria does not manufacture cars, it
proves that legally imported into Nigeria and all required import duties have been paid for. These documents ensure that duties and taxes have been paid, and driving without them can result in huge fines or even vehicle confiscation.
By ensuring these documents are up to date and readily available, Nigerian drivers can avoid fines, impounding, or legal trouble while driving.
