Owning and driving a car in Cameroon requires proper documentation to comply with traffic laws and avoid penalties.
Whether you are a new car owner or a driver looking to update your papers, understanding the necessary car documents is essential.
This guide provides a detailed list of car documents required in Cameroon, their purpose, and how to obtain them.
Why Car Documents Are Important in Cameroon
Car documents serve as legal proof of ownership, registration, insurance, and compliance with road safety regulations.
They help ensure that vehicles are roadworthy and meet the necessary standards.
Additionally, these documents protect drivers in case of accidents or legal issues.
Driving without the required documents can lead to fines, impoundment of the vehicle, or even legal action.
Essential Car Documents in Cameroon
1. Car Registration Certificate (Carte Grise)
The car registration certificate, commonly known as “Carte Grise,” is a mandatory document that proves vehicle ownership.
It contains details such as the car’s make, model, year of manufacture, and the owner’s information.
To obtain a car registration certificate, you must visit the Delegation of Transport with the required documents, including proof of purchase and customs clearance (for imported vehicles).
The registration process typically takes a few days, and once issued, the certificate must always be kept in the vehicle.
2. Vehicle Insurance Certificate
Car insurance is compulsory in Cameroon.
The insurance certificate serves as proof that the vehicle is covered in case of accidents or damages.
There are different types of insurance, including third-party insurance, which is the minimum legal requirement, and comprehensive insurance, which offers broader coverage.
Drivers should always carry a valid insurance certificate while driving.
Failure to present one during a police check can result in fines or vehicle impoundment.
3. Roadworthiness Certificate (Visite Technique)
The roadworthiness certificate, known as “Visite Technique,” confirms that the vehicle is safe to be on the road.
This inspection assesses the vehicle’s mechanical condition, including brakes, lights, and emissions.
The certificate is issued by an authorized roadworthiness inspection center and must be renewed periodically.
Driving without a valid roadworthiness certificate can lead to penalties, as authorities prioritize road safety.
4. Logbook (Livret de Bord)
The logbook is an important document that contains records of a vehicle’s technical and administrative details.
It is used to track a car’s history, including ownership changes, roadworthiness checks, and repairs.
Every car owner must maintain an updated logbook as it may be required for vehicle inspections or when selling the car.
5. Driver’s License
A valid driver’s license is mandatory for anyone operating a vehicle in Cameroon.
The license verifies that the driver has passed the necessary tests and is qualified to drive.
Driver’s licenses in Cameroon are issued by the Ministry of Transport and must be renewed periodically.
Police officers frequently check licenses during road inspections, so it is crucial to always have it on hand.
6. Number Plate Documents
Every registered vehicle in Cameroon must have an official number plate issued by the authorities.
The number plate documents verify the authenticity of the registration and ensure that the car can be legally identified.
Driving without proper number plate documents can result in fines or legal action.
In case of loss or theft, car owners must report to the transport office and request a replacement.
7. Road Tax Sticker.
The road tax sticker, commonly referred to as “Vignette,” is an annual fee paid by vehicle owners to the government.
It helps maintain road infrastructure and must be displayed on the windshield of the vehicle.
Failure to pay road tax can lead to penalties, and authorities often check for the sticker during roadblocks and inspections.
8. Customs Clearance Certificate (For Imported Cars)
For vehicles imported into Cameroon, a customs clearance certificate is required to prove that all import duties and taxes have been paid.
This document is issued by the Customs Department and must be presented when registering the car.
Vehicles without proper customs clearance are considered illegal and may be seized by authorities.
Buyers of second-hand cars should always verify that this document is available before making a purchase.
Additional Documents for Special Cases
In some cases, additional documents may be required based on the type of vehicle or its usage.
These include:
- Vehicle Transfer Certificate – Needed when selling or transferring ownership of a car.
- Special Permits – Required for commercial vehicles, taxis, and transport businesses.
- Police Clearance Certificate – Sometimes needed for imported or re-registered vehicles.
