The government of Benin will soon require driving permits for motorcycle and tricycle operators, according to Ariel Sacramento, Director-General of the National Road Safety Center (CNSR). This new regulation stems from the country's updated Road Code, adopted by the National Assembly on October 26, 2026. The code, which replaces a 1956 law, aims to modernize traffic rules and improve road safety.
Under the new Road Code, all motorized vehicles, including two- and three-wheelers, will be required to have a driving permit. The code also introduces stricter penalties for reckless behavior and mandates road safety education in schools. Additionally, helmet use will be compulsory for both drivers and passengers of two-wheelers, while seatbelts will be required for all car occupants. These changes aim to enhance road safety in Benin.
According to Director-General Sacramento, each motorized vehicle will need a permit suitable for its category. During traffic stops, police can request a driving permit, vehicle insurance, registration documents, and proof of immatriculation. However, enforcement of the new permit requirement will be gradual, with precise details to be outlined in upcoming application texts. This phased approach aims to give everyone sufficient time to adapt.
The CNSR Director-General emphasized that the goal is not to abruptly enforce the new regulations but to provide a reasonable timeframe for compliance. The updated Road Code represents a significant shift in Benin's approach to road safety, with a focus on prevention and education. By introducing driving permits for motorcycles and tricycles, authorities hope to reduce accidents and promote responsible driving practices.
The new regulations will apply to all motorized vehicles, with no exceptions. This move is expected to improve road safety and reduce the number of accidents involving motorcycles and tricycles. The government has assured that it will provide adequate time for motorists to obtain the necessary permits and comply with the new regulations.
In related developments, the National Assembly has adopted the new Road Code, which aims to modernize traffic rules and improve road safety. The code introduces several key changes, including the mandatory use of helmets and seatbelts, and stricter penalties for reckless behavior. These changes are expected to have a positive impact on road safety in Benin.
The government has announced that it will publish application texts in the coming weeks and months, outlining the precise details of the new regulations. These texts will provide clarity on the implementation and enforcement of the driving permit requirement for motorcycles and tricycles. Motorists are advised to stay informed about the upcoming regulations and to take necessary steps to comply with the new requirements.
Key points
- The new Road Code in Benin requires driving permits for motorcycles and tricycles, with enforcement pending application texts.
