20/08/2026
Zimbabwe's Parliament is considering a petition that would require all drivers to have at least five O-Level passes, including English and Mathematics, before they can obtain a professional driving licence, with the proposal now before the Portfolio Committee on Transport for further review.
Zim Breaking News : Zimbabwe's Parliament has received a petition from the Drivers' Association of Zimbabwe calling for the formalization of the driving profession, including the introduction of minimum educational qualifications and the creation of a legally recognized professional body, with the petition now referred to the Portfolio Committee on Transport and Infrastructural Development for consideration.
The association argues that professionalizing the sector would bring greater accountability and standards to Zimbabwe's transport industry, which has faced growing calls for reform .
Under the proposal, a professional body mandated by law would set entry-level educational requirements for drivers, adding academic criteria to the existing licensing process .
The Portfolio Committee on Transport and Infrastructural Development is now expected to deliberate on the proposal and make recommendations on whether to proceed with legislation .
The petition comes amid heightened debate over transport sector regulation and road safety. Parliament has previously discussed related issues, including road damage caused by haulage trucks and the need for stricter enforcement measures .
Some employers in Zimbabwe already require drivers to hold at least five O-Level passes, including English and Mathematics, alongside a valid licence and defensive driving certificate .
Currently, obtaining a driver's licence in Zimbabwe does not require specific educational qualifications beyond passing the driving test. If adopted, the proposed legislation would mark a significant shift in how the driving occupation is regulated, elevating it to a recognized profession with formal entry standards .
The Portfolio Committee is expected to engage stakeholders and conduct hearings before making recommendations to Parliament on the way forward .
