Lagos to Launch Its Own Driver’s Licence – Motorists Can Now Choose Between State and Federal Versions.

Lagos residents will soon have a new option when it comes to getting a driver’s licence, as the state government finalises plans to introduce its own version in partnership with the Federal Government.

The announcement was made by the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, during the 2026 Ministerial Press Briefing marking Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s third year in his second term.

According to Osiyemi, the new Lagos driver’s licence will be available within weeks. It won’t replace the existing federal driver’s licence but will sit alongside it, giving motorists a choice. The arrangement has been worked out with relevant federal authorities.

So why the change? The commissioner explained that the goal is to make the documentation process simpler, cut down waiting times for applicants, and strengthen how traffic is managed across the state.

“The new licensing framework will improve operational efficiency, support digital monitoring and advance transportation reforms targeted at safer and more organised road usage statewide,” Osiyemi said.

More than just a new licence:

The state has also been busy tightening vehicle safety checks. Osiyemi revealed that the Vehicle Inspection Service has ramped up enforcement of compulsory roadworthiness tests using tech-driven monitoring. Between May 2025 and April 2026, over 1.1 million roadworthiness certificates were issued a clear sign that compliance is improving.

The Lagos State Number Plate Production Authority has also been hard at work, producing number plates and road furniture in line with the government’s THEMES Plus Agenda. Think traffic control signs, caution signs, construction indicators, gantries, house number plates, and street identification signs – all aimed at making navigation easier and cutting down accidents.

Looking after commercial drivers:

On the safety front, the state launched a Driver Care Initiative focused on commercial drivers. The programme offers free eye exams, drug screening, and recertification training. It started at Lilypond Terminal in Ijora and has since expanded to other parks, with a target of reaching 10,000 commercial drivers.

In 2025, the ministry also teamed up with Glovo to give reflective jackets and visibility tapes to dispatch riders across Lagos – a move designed to keep them safer during night operations and bad weather.

Waterways safety gets a boost:

On the water, the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has been doubling down on life jacket enforcement and awareness campaigns. In May 2025, the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy donated life jackets to LASWA at Five Cowries Terminal, complete with practical demonstrations alongside NIWA, the Marine Police, and other stakeholders.

A month later, LASWA partnered with CFAO Yamaha Motor Nigeria Ltd. to distribute more life jackets at Liverpool and Ebute jetties. Even private sector players are pitching in the Dangote Leadership Development Programme Cohort 11 donated adult and children’s life jackets to support waterways safety advocacy in the state.

With all these moving parts, it’s clear Lagos is pushing hard for a smarter, safer, and more organised transport system whether you’re on four wheels, two wheels, or a boat.