Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwean government has made a decisive climbdown on the controversial notion of mandatory retesting for all drivers, following a wave of public backlash and confusion. Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona has moved swiftly to quash rumours, clarifying that no such blanket policy is under consideration.

“There is no new proposal for a blanket retest system for all drivers,” Mhona told The Sunday Mail. “The recent confusion stemmed from misinterpretations of the SADC licence renewal process and existing professional driver regulations.”

The uproar was triggered by widespread misinterpretations surrounding updates to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) driver’s licence framework. While the new SADC-compliant licences are valid for five years, the renewal process will not require a full driving test for ordinary motorists.

“Driving is a profession,” Mhona said. “Retesting separates professional driving from ordinary driving.”

The minister explained that retesting applies exclusively to professional drivers—specifically public service vehicle (PSV) operators and those driving freight vehicles over 10 tonnes—as outlined in Statutory Instrument 168 of 2006.

For the general motoring public, renewal will involve biometric updates and submission of a valid medical report—no road tests, no cones.

The miscommunication had sparked widespread concern, with many fearing a logistical and financial burden. But Mhona has drawn a firm line between professional regulation and private driver compliance, offering reassurance to millions of Zimbabwean drivers.

“The retest is key for maintaining a robust database of professional drivers,” Mhona said. “It ensures they remain competent and compliant with regulations, and helps root out fake licences.”

He outlined strict requirements for PSV drivers: they must be between 30 and 70 years of age, undergo annual medical exams, and hold at least five years of driving experience. They are also required to present valid defensive driving and hazardous chemical transport certificates.

Highlighting that Zimbabwe’s approach aligns with global norms, the minister noted: “The United Kingdom, for instance, implements retesting for the ‘D’ driving licence category (passenger-carrying drivers), with intervals based on vehicle type and driver age.”

Mhona added that even within the Government, no one may operate official vehicles without undergoing retesting—and that some private companies enforce similar policies.

“This underscores the principle of ensuring heightened competency for those entrusted with greater responsibility on the road,” he concluded.

The government’s statement brings much-needed clarity after a week of rising concern. With ordinary drivers now officially exempt from mandatory retesting, the panic that once gripped social media has been firmly put to rest.