Drivers warned over fake permits ahead of Lira mobile licensing

4 April 2026, 5:56 pm

By Baker Okello

As the North Kyoga region prepares to launch a mobile driving licence enrolment programme in Lira City, the Chairperson of the Northern Uganda Bus and Truck Drivers’ Network, David Okello, has cautioned drivers against obtaining permits from unrecognised institutions.

Okello, who is also the Director of Good Motors Driving School in Lira, emphasised that acquiring a valid driving permit requires proper training based on key road safety principles. He outlined these as understanding vehicle models, maintaining road discipline, observing traffic penalties, and adhering to the driver’s code of ethics.

He confirmed that the mobile registration exercise, scheduled from 20 to 25 April 2026, will offer a range of services, including processing new driving licences, renewing expired or lapsed permits, replacing lost licences, and upgrading driving classes.

Okello warned that obtaining permits from unregistered institutions poses serious road safety risks, citing recent accidents, including one along the Kampala–Gulu highway that claimed the lives of six football fans of Amolatar Red Devils FC.

He further explained that individuals seeking a new driving permit must undergo training at a recognised driving school, be at least 18 years old, and be physically and mentally fit.

The upcoming mobile licensing exercise provides an opportunity for drivers to regularise their documents, but authorities emphasise that safety and proper training must remain a priority to reduce road accidents.