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What Is a Fleet Operator’s License?
A Fleet Operator’s License (FOL) is an official certification permitting an organisation to operate five or more vehicles for commercial transport on Nigeria’s public highways. It serves as proof of compliance with national road‐safety, insurance, and vehicle‐maintenance standards .
Who Issues the FOL in Nigeria?
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), under the Road Transport Safety Standardisation Scheme (RTSSS) unit, administers and issues FOLs through its dedicated online portal (rtsss.frsc.gov.ng) and all zonal Command headquarters.
Key Benefits of Holding a Valid FOL
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Regulatory Compliance: Avoid hefty fines (up to ₦500,000 per vehicle) and impoundment of unlicensed fleets.
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Enhanced Market Access: Many government and blue‐chip contracts mandate a valid FOL.
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Insurance Premium Discounts: Licensed operators often negotiate up to 15% lower fleet‐insurance rates.
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Improved Safety & Reputation: Demonstrates commitment to vehicle maintenance, driver training, and road‐safety standards.
Eligibility & Basic Requirements
Before applying, ensure your organisation meets the following prerequisites:
| Requirement | Details / Document |
|---|---|
| Company Registration | CAC Certificate of Incorporation |
| Tax Identification Number (TIN) | FIRS‐issued TIN certificate |
| Head Office Address | Utility bill or lease agreement |
| Minimum Fleet Size | At least five (5) operational vehicles |
| Directors’ Information | List of directors & valid IDs for two directors |
| Contact Person Details | Staff ID card of the designated registration officer |
| Insurance Coverage | Evidence of Third‐Party Liability insurance (valid) |
| Vehicle Papers | Roadworthiness certificates for all fleet vehicles |
All documents must match the exact company name and address on CAC records.
Step‐by‐Step Application Process
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Pre‐Registration Preparation
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Collate all documents listed above.
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Ensure CAC and TIN records are up to date.
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Obtain & Complete RTSSS Form (RTSSS‐001)
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Visit any FRSC Command headquarters or download from the RTSSS portal; the form is issued free of charge.
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Fill in company, director, and fleet details accurately.
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Submit Application & Upload Documents
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Register and log in at rtsss.frsc.gov.ng/registration.
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Upload scanned documents and completed form.
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Payment of License Fee
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Upon portal approval, a payment instruction is generated.
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Pay at designated bank or via the FRSC e‐payment channel (online).
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Safety Inspection & Verification
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A Transport Standardisation Officer will schedule a site inspection within 10–14 working days.
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Ensure all vehicles pass roadworthiness and insurance checks.
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Issuance of Fleet Operator’s License
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Upon successful inspection and payment, the FRSC issues a digital FOL certificate via the portal.
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Print and display in your head office and carry copies in all vehicles.
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Costs & Fee Schedule
While application forms are free, the following fees apply:
| Fee Component | Amount (₦) | Payment Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Fleet Operator’s License Fee (annual) | 250,000 | Bank/Online Portal |
| Portal Processing Fee | 10,000 | Online only |
| Inspection & Verification Fee | 20,000 | Bank |
| Digital Certificate Issuance | 5,000 | Included in license fee |
All fees are as prescribed by the Joint Tax Board and FRSC. Applicants should confirm the current schedule at the point of payment.
Common Misconceptions
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“It’s the same as a Vehicle License.”
False. A FOL covers your entire fleet; individual vehicle licenses (number plates) remain separate requirements under the National Road Traffic Regulations. -
“Only large companies need an FOL.”
Any entity (including NGOs, MDAs, schools) operating five or more vehicles must hold a valid FOL. -
“The process takes months.”
When all documents are in order and inspections proceed smoothly, you can obtain your FOL in as little as 4–6 weeks.
People Also Ask: FAQs
Q: What exactly is a Fleet Operator’s License?
A: A certification allowing organisations to operate a minimum of five commercial vehicles on public roads, ensuring compliance with safety and insurance standards.
Q: How much does a Fleet Operator’s License cost?
A: Currently ₦250,000 annually, plus portal and inspection fees (total around ₦285,000).
Q: How long is the FOL valid?
A: One year, renewable annually upon re‐inspection and fee payment.
Q: Can I apply if I have fewer than five vehicles?
A: No. The FOL is mandatory only for fleets of five (5) vehicles and above; smaller operators must hold individual vehicle licenses.
Q: What happens if my fleet expands beyond five vehicles after licensing?
A: You must notify the FRSC via the RTSSS portal within 14 days and pay an addendum fee (pro‐rata of the license fee).
Conclusion & Next Steps
Securing your Fleet Operator’s License is a pivotal step toward legal compliance, operational efficiency, and accessing lucrative transport contracts in Nigeria. By following the steps outlined above—and ensuring every document is accurate—you will obtain your FOL swiftly and position your business for growth.
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Gather your documents today.
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Register on the RTSSS portal.
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Submit, pay, and prepare for inspection.
Ready to make your fleet fully compliant? Visit the FRSC RTSSS portal now and take the first step toward seamless, worry‐free operations.
