Vehicle Registration & Plate Number
New and used vehicles must be registered with your state's motor licensing authority to get a plate number, vehicle licence and roadworthiness certificate. Rules and exact fees are set by each state.
- Processing time
- Typically 1–5 working days after a successful inspection, longer if documents need verification.
- Starting cost
- ₦25,000 – ₦60,000
- Steps
- 6 to complete
- Last verified
- August 2026
Who can apply
- Vehicle owner or authorised dealer with proof of purchase
- Vehicle must pass a physical/roadworthiness inspection in most states
Documents you'll need
What it costs
| Plate number & registration (varies by state and vehicle type)Indicative — confirm on your state portal | ₦25,000 – ₦60,000 |
| Vehicle licence renewal (annual)Varies by state and vehicle class | ₦3,000 – ₦12,000 |
| Roadworthiness certificate | ₦3,000 – ₦8,000 |
Where to apply
- Your state's Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) or motor licensing portal
- Designated banks or online payment channels linked to the state portal
- Physical VIO centre for inspection and plate collection
Application steps
- 1
Gather proof of ownership
Customs papers for imported vehicles, or dealer invoice/Certificate of Manufacture for new local vehicles.
- 2
Register on your state's portal
Create an account and enter the vehicle's chassis/engine number and owner details.
- 3
Book a physical inspection
Most states require the vehicle to be physically inspected before a plate number is issued.
- 4
Pay the registration and licensing fees
Pay through the state portal or an approved bank.
- 5
Collect your plate number and vehicle licence
Some states issue plates same-day after inspection; others post or require pickup.
- 6
Renew your vehicle licence annually
Set a reminder — driving with an expired licence attracts fines.
How to pay
- State online payment portal
- Designated commercial banks
- POS at some VIO offices
Checking your status
Check your state VIO portal with your registration reference, or ask at the VIO office where you registered.
Common mistakes to avoid
- ✕Buying a vehicle without confirming the particulars/history are clean
- ✕Skipping the physical inspection step and getting turned away
- ✕Letting the annual vehicle licence lapse
- ✕Using an unofficial agent who charges above the state's published fee
Ready to start your vehicle registration application?
You'll complete the actual transaction on the official State Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) / Motor Licensing Authority site — we just made sure you arrive knowing exactly what to do.
Go to Your state's VIO / motor licensing portal (e.g. Lagos: vio.lagosstate.gov.ng) ↗