Do you wish to know how to apply for plate number in Nigeria? The process to apply to vehicle plate number is now easy and seamless unlike before. However, before you take to the teeming streets of Lagos or sail along the smooth roads in Abuja, you must get your vehicle’s official plate number.
Worry not, fellow driver; this guide will serve as a compass for obtaining your Nigerian plate number so that you can drive without fear of being arrested since it is illegal.
The old days when plate numbers were obtained through tedious processes are over. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has embraced technology, which has eased its online application process.
Nonetheless, if one prefers it done in the old-fashioned manner, feel at ease because we still have those reliable physical locations.
Documents You’ll Need
You should start the process of getting your plate number promptly. So, here is what to do:
- Application Letter: A formal letter for registration of the customized number plates or a standard one.
- Vehicle Proof: If the car is relatively new, you need an affidavit and receipt as evidence. For foreign vehicles, you must provide the necessary shipping documents.
- Identification: Any Nigerian valid ID card such as an Identity Card, Driving License, Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC), or International Passport
- Driver’s License: The driver’s official driving permit is also vital.
- Tax Information: Always provide your TIN (Tax Identification Number).
- Vehicle Insurance: You must attach copies of the current car insurance certificate(s) and policy numbers.
- Proof of Ownership: This can be any vehicle registration document or other pertinent evidence showing that you own this automobile.
Two Roads Converge: Online vs. Offline Application
The Online Path:
The FRSC website is convenient for those who are tech-savvy. Here’s how:
- Log In: Visit the FRSC webpage with an address available for more research for existing customers; otherwise, register as new users by following the onscreen instructions.
- Download Forms: Once logged in, download the necessary forms, including the application form (Auto Vehicle Permit Form, Form B), tax documents, plate number distribution form, and road health commission form.
- Fill and Submit: Carefully complete the forms, ensuring all information is accurate and complete. Then, submit the electronic forms via the website.
The Traditional Route:
For those who would rather have a more hands-on approach, go to your local FRSC office or the State Board of Internal Revenue (BIR)/Motor Licensing Authority (MLA) office. There, you can pick up application forms and continue with the process.
The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Next are the steps that follow once you have your documents and application forms ready.
- Filling Out the Forms: Whether online or offline, ensure all data in the forms are accurate and complete. Check twice for typos or errors before proceeding.
- Document Verification: Now, visit your state’s BIR or MLA office. They will verify if your papers are authentic, and if they are good to go, they will stamp them accordingly.
- Making Payment: Go ahead and pay for your plate number. The price usually ranges between ₦50,000 to₦80,000, depending on whether it is a standard or customized plate number. Ensure to keep a copy of the receipt for future purpose.
- Vehicle Inspection (Optional): Some states may require you to bring your vehicle to be physically inspected by the Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) for roadworthiness, although it is only sometimes necessary. If needed, upon successful inspection, you shall receive a Road Worthiness Certificate.
- Document Verification (FRSC): The application and supporting documents are forwarded to the FRSC office where final verification occurs.
- Plate Number Issuance: When everything is approved, you shall be notified to come and collect your official vehicle’s plate number.
Where Can I Get My Plate Number in Nigeria?
You can obtain your official vehicle plate number from two places:
- FRSC Office: The body called The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) is responsible for vehicle licensing nationwide. When you visit an FRSC office close to you, they will process your request and provide you with a plate number.
- BIR/MLA Office: In addition to these procedures, there are state offices where motor registration can be done, such as the State Board of Internal Revenue (BIR) or Motor Licensing Authority (MLA). To make an application and get a given plate number, a trip to either office would be suitable.
How Much is Car Insurance in Nigeria?
In Nigeria, the prices of auto insurance may differ depending on different things:
- Type of Vehicle: Your premiums are determined by your car’s make, model, and year. Newer models that cost more usually have higher coverage charges.
- Engine Capacity: Bigger car engines generally attract higher premiums for their owners.
- Location: Insurance rates vary slightly based on the state one lives in.
- Level of Coverage: The kind of coverage, for example, comprehensive vs. third party alone, determines how much a person will pay as a premium.
How Much Does it Cost to Change Ownership of a Car in Nigeria?
The actual price of changing vehicle ownership in Nigeria varies but usually requires several fees:
- Vehicle Inspection: There might be an associated fee for this inspection. In some states, a Vehicle Inspection Officer (VIO) may be required to determine whether it is roadworthy.
- Transfer Fee: The BIR/MLA office will charge a transfer fee to process the change of ownership documents.
- New Plate Number (Optional): If the new owner wants a unique plate number, they will need to pay either a standard or customized plate fee, depending on their choice.
How Much Does it Cost to Register a New Car in Nigeria?
Registration costs for a new car in Nigeria vary depending on several factors:
- Standard vs. Customized Plate: As of 2024, complete with standard plates shall cost between ₦50,000 and ₦80,000. Nonetheless, wannabes of personalized numbers are expected to dig deeper into their pockets.
- State Variations: Registration charges may differ slightly from state to state. For precise figures, it would be best to visit the nearby BIR/MLA office.
- Additional Fees: The process may involve some small extra expenses. These usually include things like photocopying or administrative costs. These are often nominal and communicated during the application process.
Can I Use My Old License Plate on a New Car in Nigeria?
No, you cannot use your old license plate on a new vehicle in Nigeria. Every automobile must have a specific number plate for identification.
LIST OF APPROVED VEHICLE LICENSING OFFICES TO OBTAIN NEW NUMBER PLATES
Here’s the list presented in a table format:
| S/N | STATE | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ABIA | BIR Zonal Office, 5 Bende Road, Umuahia |
| 2 | ADAMAWA | BIR Office, Yola North |
| 3 | AKWA IBOM | BIR Office State Secretariat, Uyo |
| 4 | ANAMBRA | Motor Licensing Office, Npaje Awka |
| 5 | BAUCHI | BIR Office, Jos Road, Bauchi |
| 6 | BAYELSA | – MLA Yenagoa: Obele street, Ovom, Yenagoa |
| – MLA Kpansia: Inec Junction, Kpansia, Yenagoa | ||
| – MLA Brass: BIR Secretariat complex, Road Safety Road, | ||
| Yenagoa | ||
| – MLA Ogbia: Emeyal II, Ogbia LGA | ||
| – MLA Sagbama: Hospital Road, Yenagoa | ||
| 7 | BENUE | BIR Office, G.R.A. Kashim Ibrahim Road, Makurdi |
| 8 | BORNO | BIR Office, Opp. Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri |
| 9 | CROSS RIVER | – BIR Office, 43 Akim Road Calabar |
| – BIR Office, Ikot Omin Calabar | ||
| – BIR Office, Inyang Street Calabar | ||
| 10 | DELTA | BIR Office, 27, Ezenei Avenue, Off Nnebisi Road Asaba |
| 11 | EBONYI | – BIR Office, Ministry of Finance, Abakaliki |
| – Ezza South LGA Motor Licensing Office, Onueke | ||
| – Ebonyi LGA Motor Licensing Office, Ugbodo | ||
| – Afikpo North LGA Motor Licensing Office, Afikpo | ||
| 12 | EDO | – EIRS Office, New Lagos Road |
| – EIRS Office, Forestry Road (LTO I & LTO II) | ||
| – EIRS Office, TV Road | ||
| – EIRS Office, Uselu | ||
| – EIRS Office, Ikpoba Hill (Ramat Park) | ||
| – EIRS Office, Obe | ||
| – EIRS Office, Okada | ||
| – EIRS Office, Ekpoma | ||
| – EIRS Office, Auchi | ||
| 13 | EKITI | – BIR Office, Oke-Oriomi, Ado Ekiti |
| – BIR Office, Beside First Bank Erekeson Market, Efon-Alaaye | ||
| – BIR Office, Old secretariat complex, Emure-Ekiti | ||
| – BIR Office, Oja-oba premises, Ido-Ekiti | ||
| – BIR Office, Opp Oba palace, Ise-Ekiti | ||
| – BIR Office, Oke-Osun, Ikere Ekiti | ||
| 14 | ENUGU | BIR Office, Okpara Avenue, Opp. PHCN Office Enugu |
| 15 | FCT | VIO Office, Mabushi Abuja |
| 16 | GOMBE | BIR Office, Gombe |
| 17 | IMO | BIR Office, Okigwe Road, Owerri |
| 18 | JIGAWA | BIR Office, Old Secretariat, Sani Abacha way, Dutse |
| 19 | KADUNA | BIR Office, Opp. High court Bida RS Kaduna |
| 20 | KANO | BIR Office, No.2 Bank Road, Kano |
| 21 | KATSINA | BIR Office, G.R.A. Katsina |
| 22 | KEBBI | BIR Office, Opp. Diamond Bank, Birnin Kebbi |
| 23 | KOGI | BIR Office, No.1 Beach Road Lokoja |
| 24 | KWARA | IRS Office, Ahmadu Bello Way, Ilorin. |
| 25 | LAGOS | – Beach road, Agbowa/Block 9, Old Secretariat, Ikeja |
| – Ipaja road, Abekoko, Agege | ||
| – Agege Local government | ||
| – 13 Olubunmi Alonge Street, Aguda | ||
| – 7/9 Dele Bakare Str., Trinity Tpapa Oshodi Expressway, Lagos | ||
| – Oriade Local Council Dev Area Office Kirikiri | ||
| – Water Corporation yard mile 2 bus stop, mile 2 | ||
| – 7 Dopemu road Agege | ||
| – Old cla Secretariat 1/kemfat road, Thomas Village, Ajah | ||
| – 17a Alhaji Tokan street, Western Avenue, Surulere | ||
| – Lirs, idi oro | ||
| – 65, Abeokuta Expressway | ||
| – Allen Avenue, Ikeja | ||
| – 2, Plateau road, Apapa | ||
| – Vio yard, Berger Cement Bus stop, Olodi Apapa | ||
| – Badagry town hall, Badagry | ||
| – 62/63 Campbell street, Lagos | ||
| – Oke Oyinbo GRA road, Epe/old cla secretariat, Epe | ||
| – Tinubu square, Nnamdi Azikwe street, Lagos | ||
| – Vio/Lastma yard, Ejigbo | ||
| – 31b, Oyeleke Str, Alausa Corporate house, Alausa ikeja | ||
| – 70, College road, Ifako | ||
| – Block 9, old Secretariat, Ikeja | ||
| – Mpwb old secretariat, Ikeja beside muslim pilgrims welfare | ||
| – 42 Tos Benson road, Ikorodu | ||
| – Vio/Lastma yard, Odogunyan, Ikorodu | ||
| – 96, Isolo road, Egbe | ||
| – 25, Biaduo CLS off Keffi by hosephine, b/stop south west, Ikoyi | ||
| – 19 Oloruntedo way Imota | ||
| – 2 Odaliki street, Ebute metta | ||
| – 582, Ikorodu road, Ketu | ||
| – 13, Town Planning way, Ilupeju | ||
| – 8/10 Isheri road, Ojodu | ||
| – 155 Olojo Drive, Ojo | ||
| – Isheri road, Frsc complex, ojodu | ||
| – 13, Idoluwo street, Lagos | ||
| – 30, Oke Olowogbowo street, Lagos | ||
| – 43, Oregun road, Oregun, Lagos | ||
| – 85, Badagry Exp way, Orile Iganmu | ||
| – 26, Afari Ogun street, Oshodi | ||
| – Block 8, 1st floor, Old secretariat, Ikeja | ||
| – Lagos Terminal, Oyingbo | ||
| – Old cla Secretariat , PWD Shogunle, Ikeja | ||
| – 33/35 Salami Shuaibu str., Shomolu | ||
| – 43, Marina Str., Lagos re-insurance house | ||
| – Itinrin court, Aboyade close str., Victoria Island | ||
| – Yaba lcda secretariat, Adekunle bus stop, yaba | ||
| 26 | NASSARAWA | – BIR Office, Kasuwar Tomato, Lafia |
| – BIR Office, Testing Ground Lafia | ||
| 27 | NIGER | VIO Office, along Paiko Road Minna |
| 28 | OGUN | IRS Oke-Mosan, Opp Federal High Court Abeokuta |
| 29 | ONDO | BIR Office, Alagbaka, Akure |
| 30 | OSUN | BIR Office, Ministry of Finance, State Secretariat Abere |
| 31 | OYO | BIR Office, Onireke Road, Egbe Ibadan |
| 32 | PLATEAU | BIR Office, No.7 Beach Road, Jos North |
| 33 | RIVERS | – BIR Office, No. 22 William Jumbo Street, Port-harcourt |
| – Obio Licensing Office, Old Aba Road, Portharcourt | ||
| – Emenike Licensing Office. Emenike Junction, Diobu, Mile 1, Portharcourt | ||
| 34 | SOKOTO | BIR Office, behind City Campus, Usman Danfodio University |
| 35 | TARABA | BIR Office, Hamman Ruwa Road, Jalingo. |
| 36 | YOBE | BIR Office, Gujiba Road, Damaturu. |
| 37 | ZAMFARA | BIR Office, Tudun Wada, Gusau |
Conclusion
Now that your official number plate is obtained, you can travel confidently on Nigerian roads. Remember that responsible driving habits are crucial to a safe and enjoyable trip. Always observe traffic rules, ensure your car is in good condition, and keep your essential documents (driver’s
license, car papers, and insurance) within reach in the car.
So fasten your seat belts, hit the acceleration pedal (figuratively, of course, within speed limits!), and explore Nigeria’s vibrant landscapes and busy cities. With some preparation and your trusty plate number, your driving adventures will begin!
FAQs
Q: Is online application mandatory?
A: No, internet application is presently not obligatory due to
FRSC’s voluntary service to customers. Traditional application processes can, though, still be done at FRSC or BIR/MLA offices.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: Processing times will vary based on location and workload
however, if everything is in order, it typically takes three days to a week.
Q: Are there any additional fees involved?
There may be minor additional charges related to processing, such as photocopying costs or administrative fees. These fees are often nominal and will be communicated by the officers during the application process.
Q: What happens if I lose my plate number?
A: If the plate number is lost or stolen, inform the nearest police station and get a police report. Afterward, go to the FRSC or BIR/MLA
office with the police report and other documents required to apply for a new
plate.
Q: Do I need to renew my plate number?
A: Nigerian vehicle license plates do not need periodic renewal
like in some countries. Once released, it continues to be valid until your
vehicle is scrapped.