Section 27(3) of the Motor Traffic Act states that: “A driver’s license other than a provisional driver’s license shall, unless previously revoked or surrendered, remain in force for a period of three years from the date on which it’s issued.”
On the contrary in The Gambia, a driver’s license is valid for one year and expires on 31st December regardless of the date issued.
After a research by The Gambia Transport Union stakeholders to understand the basis of which the one year validity came into being, they assured the public that the union would follow up on the matter to ensure compliance with the law..
Drivers who spoke to our reporter in an interview on the recommendations made by The Gambia Transport Union on the validity of the driver’s license called for adherence to what the law says on the validity of the driver’s license.
Malick Baldeh, a driver said if the recommendations are implemented it would help them. He explained that the three years validity period will favour them when implemented, adding that the Government and the Transport Union should try to reach an agreement in order to help reduce the struggle they go through in processing and getting their licenses.
Alagie Secka, also a driver said renewing their driver’s license every year is a burden to them and therefore called on authorities to abide by what the law says.
He applauded The Gambia Transport Union for their efforts in carrying out the research.
He stated that, there are insufficient job opportunities in The Gambia, noting that driving is his only way of earning a living. He pointed out that even though the job does not pay much, it does not stop them from renewing their licenses yearly.
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