If you drive a bus, taxi or any public service vehicle (PSV) in Uganda, you need more than a driving permit. You must also hold a valid PSV driver's badge. In October 2026 the badge became national news when bus drivers threatened a nationwide strike over the cost and delays of renewing it. The strike planned for 12 October was put on hold to allow talks with government and bus owners.
This guide explains what the badge is, who needs it, how to get and renew it, and what drivers are asking government to change.
What is a PSV driver's badge?
A PSV badge is an identification issued to drivers who have been vetted and approved to carry passengers for hire. It shows that the driver has passed competence checks, has a clean record and is employed by a recognised operator. Passengers and traffic officers can see it, and it helps hold drivers accountable.
Who needs a PSV badge?
- Bus drivers on upcountry, city and cross border routes
- Taxi (commuter minibus) drivers
- Drivers of other vehicles licensed to carry fare paying passengers
Conductors may also be required to register and carry identification, depending on current Ministry of Works and Transport rules.
Current rules (announced in August 2026)
On 17 August 2026, State Minister for Transport Fred Byamukama announced tighter rules after investigations found many drivers did not meet the required standards:
- Vetting before issue: drivers must be vetted before receiving a badge.
- Valid for one year: badges must be renewed annually.
- Renewal depends on your record: your road safety record and conduct are considered.
- Refresher training: drivers must have completed a refresher course at a licensed driving school within the previous 24 months.
- Two drivers on long routes: buses travelling more than 450 km, and buses on interstate routes, must carry two accredited drivers.
Requirements to get or renew a badge
Requirements may be updated by the ministry, but drivers are generally asked for:
- A valid driving permit with the correct class for the vehicle, for example a class covering medium or large omnibuses for buses.
- National ID.
- An appointment letter from the bus or taxi company you work for.
- A police document confirming you meet requirements and have no bad driving record or criminal record.
- Proof of completing the refresher driving course at a licensed driving school.
- Medical fitness, including eyesight, where required.
- Passport photos and payment of the official fees.
A 2013 statutory instrument requires competence tests and a criminal record check before a badge is issued.
How much does a PSV badge cost?
Official fees should be paid through government payment channels with a receipt. However, during the October 2026 dispute, some drivers said the total cost of processing a badge, including training and other charges, exceeded Shs700,000, and that amounts differed from one driver to another. Drivers asked government to publish clear, fixed fees. Until that is resolved, always ask for an official breakdown and receipts for every payment.
What is the penalty for driving without a badge?
Driving a bus without a valid badge can attract a fine of up to Shs200,000, and traffic police may stop the vehicle on the highway. Operators can also face penalties for employing unbadged drivers.
Why did bus drivers threaten to strike?
The Uganda Bus Drivers Association and other driver groups raised several concerns:
- High and unclear costs: annual badge and training costs are heavy compared with drivers' salaries.
- Long delays: some badges took more than a month to issue, leaving drivers out of work.
- Long refresher courses: drivers want shorter, practical training.
- Missing appointment letters: some companies reportedly refuse to issue letters to avoid tax and NSSF obligations, which blocks drivers from applying.
- Welfare and traffic penalties: drivers want their wider welfare concerns addressed.
After a meeting with police, the Ministry of Works and Transport and bus owners, the strike planned for 12 October 2026 was halted to allow further talks.
Why government is tightening the rules
Road safety is the main reason. According to the 2025 police report, 437 buses were involved in crashes in one year, 105 of them fatal. Better vetting, training and rest for drivers on long routes are meant to reduce these numbers.
Tips for drivers
- Start renewal at least six weeks before your badge expires.
- Ask your employer for a proper appointment letter and confirm you are registered with NSSF.
- Keep copies of your permit, ID, training certificate and receipts.
- Choose a licensed driving school for the refresher course and keep the certificate safe.
- Avoid paying middlemen who promise fast badges. Use official channels.
Tips for passengers
- Check that the driver has a visible badge and the bus has valid PSV licensing.
- On long routes, ask whether there are two drivers.
- Report reckless driving to the police traffic hotline or the bus company.
Need help with transport compliance?
If you run a bus, taxi or logistics company and need help with licensing, employment contracts or NSSF compliance for drivers, book a quick consultation with a verified legal or business consultant on The Quick Consult.