The process of securing road transport and maritime documents in Cameroon has been significantly simplified, thanks to a new initiative announced by the Minister of Transport, Ernest Massena Ngalle Bibehe. Starting December 2, 2024, citizens will be able to apply for these documents online, bypassing the lengthy procedures previously required. Previously, applicants had to go through driving schools, regional delegations, and the Ministry of Transport to obtain documents like driving licences. The new system allows individuals to apply directly online, saving time and effort.
Simplifying the Process
In a press statement issued on November 14, Minister Ngalle Bibehe emphasized that the change is designed to streamline the process and reduce the time required to issue documents.
“Within the framework of the reform related to the dematerialisation and securing of the transport documents security system and ensuing revenues, the Minister of Transport hereby informs the public that, as of Monday, December 2, 2024, the process of obtaining the following transport documents will now be done online on the following website: https://ssdtmint.cm,” the ministry’s statement read.
The online system covers a wide range of road transport documents, including:
- Driving licences
- Certificates of competency
- Car registration certificates (Cartes grises)
- Public road transport licenses (Cartes bleues)
- Transport licenses
- Authorizations for road transport professions
- Driving school authorizations
- Identification badges for professional drivers
Maritime Documents Also Included
The reform extends beyond road transport, incorporating maritime transport documents as well. These include:
- Tonnage certificates
- Crew lists
- Nationalizations
- Navigation licenses
- Maritime cartograms
- Certificates of cancellation
- Safety inspections
- Certificates of competency for seafarers and motorized crafts
- Professional seaman booklets
- Temporary registrations and authorizations
No Additional Costs for Online Access
Minister Ngalle Bibehe assured the public that this shift to online applications does not come with any increase in production costs. The goal is to make the process more efficient while ensuring deadlines are respected during the processing of applications.
Applicants will need to create an account on the designated platform and input their information before accessing the application forms.
Questions Remain on Training for Driving Licences
While the online platform addresses the application process, the minister did not clarify whether training requirements for driver’s licenses would change or remain the same. This omission has left some uncertainty, particularly regarding how first-time applicants will meet training and testing standards under the new system.
The initiative marks a significant step in modernizing Cameroon’s transport documentation system, promising faster and more accessible services for citizens across the country.
