The government of Guinea has unveiled plans to enhance road safety by introducing driving tests for license renewal. Transport Minister Ousmane Gaoual Diallo made the announcement during a sensitization mission on road safety regulations in the country's interior. The move aims to address the issue of successive changes to driving permits and vehicle registration cards, as well as strengthen controls on the issuance of these documents.
Minister Diallo revealed that holders of driving permits will be required to undergo a test to prove their driving skills and knowledge of traffic regulations. He emphasized that the responsibility for ensuring road safety is shared among stakeholders, including users and truck owners. The minister cited instances of individuals obtaining permits without proper evaluation, noting that 86% of permit holders have their children also holding permits.
To rectify these shortcomings, Minister Diallo has instructed the National Directorate of Land Transport to review the conditions for permit renewal. He stressed that from now on, applicants must demonstrate their ability to drive and knowledge of traffic regulations by taking a test, which will be free of charge. The minister emphasized that permits will no longer be issued to individuals who fail to prove their driving competence.
The government has also announced an end to the practice of changing permits and vehicle registration cards as of January 2027. Minister Diallo urged holders of old "pink permits" to renew them before the end of 2026. He explained that the current system allows for easy forgery, as the documents are not secure, and individuals can print and obtain permits with their photos without proper verification.
Minister Diallo emphasized that the current situation can no longer be tolerated, given the responsibilities associated with ensuring the safety of road users. He called on unions, security forces, and administrative authorities to collaborate with the government in sensitizing citizens to comply with the law. The minister urged stakeholders to prepare for the changes and encouraged citizens to take urgent action to conform to the new regulations.
The introduction of driving tests for license renewal is part of the government's efforts to improve road safety and prevent unauthorized permit issuance. The move is expected to enhance the overall safety of road users in Guinea. Minister Diallo's announcement has emphasized the need for collective action to address the challenges associated with road safety.
The government has set a deadline for the implementation of the new measures, with the goal of reducing the number of accidents on the country's roads. By introducing driving tests and strengthening controls on permit issuance, the government aims to promote a culture of road safety and responsibility among citizens.
Key points
- The Guinea government will introduce driving tests for license renewal to improve road safety.
- Holders of old "pink permits" are urged to renew them before the end of 2026.
- The practice of changing permits and vehicle registration cards will end as of January 2027.
