MIMIS Motor Vehicle Inspection 2026: How To Apply

Most drivers in Tanzania only think about Motor vehicle inspection when the expiry date is close. Others only care about insurance after an accident happens. But the truth is both are connected more than many people realize.

Your Motor vehicle inspection report does more than confirm your car is safe for the road. It can also become important when police check your documents, when your insurance is verified through TIRAMIS, or when you try to make an insurance claim after an accident.

A valid inspection certificate shows that your vehicle was checked and considered roadworthy. Without it, you may face fines, delays, or extra questions during claim investigations. That is why keeping both your inspection and insurance active is important for every vehicle owner in Tanzania.

What Is Motor Vehicle Inspection in Tanzania?

Motor vehicle inspection is the process of checking a vehicle to make sure it is safe to drive on the road. In Tanzania, this inspection is required by law for cars, motorcycles, buses, trucks, and other vehicles.

During the inspection, officers check important parts of the vehicle such as the brakes, lights, tyres, steering, suspension, engine condition, and exhaust smoke. The goal is to make sure the vehicle does not put the driver, passengers, or other road users at risk.

The inspection process is managed by the Tanzania Police Force through the MIMIS online system. Vehicle owners use the system to apply for inspection, book appointments, pay fees, and download inspection reports online.

How to Apply for Motor Vehicle Inspection on MIMIS

To apply for a motor vehicle inspection in Tanzania, follow the steps below carefully:

Step 1: Open the MIMIS Portal

Open the MIMIS portal at mimis.tpf.go.tz using your phone or computer. On the homepage, you will see three options:

New Application to start a new application
Continue Application to continue an application you already saved
Inspection Report to check or download a completed inspection report
To begin, click on “New Application.”

Step 2: Register Your Application

After selecting “New Application,” you will be redirected to the registration page at mimis.tpf.go.tz/account. Here, you need to enter your personal details before creating an account.

Fill in the following information:

First name (required): Enter your first name
Middle name: Enter your middle name if you have one. This field is required during registration.
Last name (required): Enter your surname or family name
Gender (required): Choose either Male or Female from the dropdown menu
Valid phone number (required): Enter an active Tanzanian mobile number, such as 0262323585

motor vehicle inspection enter personal details

Note: Make sure all information entered in the form is correct and accurate. After you complete the registration process, the system will generate an Application ID. Copy and save this number carefully because you will need it later to track your vehicle inspection status and access your application in the system.

Step 3: Fill in Vehicle Information

After clicking “Next,” you will be directed to the Vehicle Information page. Here, you must provide details about your vehicle and the purpose of the inspection.

Fill in the following fields carefully:

Reason (required): Open the dropdown menu and choose the reason for inspection.

Available options include:

Mandatory Vehicle Inspection for a normal periodic vehicle inspection
Road Safety Week for inspections conducted during Road Safety Week
Other available reasons depending on the purpose of your inspection

Select the option that best matches your situation.

Category (required): Choose your vehicle category from the dropdown list. Common options include:
Private Salloon
Commercial Salloon
Private Motorcycle
Commercial Motorcycle
00 Tonnes to 05 Tonnes
06 Tonnes to 15 Tonnes
16 Tonnes to 30 Tonnes
31 Tonnes and Above
If you own a normal private car, select “Private Salloon.”
If you own a truck or heavy vehicle, choose the correct tonnage category.
Number Plate (required): Enter your vehicle registration number exactly as it appears on the plate.

Important: Once you enter the number plate, the system automatically retrieves your vehicle details from the database.

When the plate number T248EAR was entered, the MIMIS system automatically retrieved and filled in the vehicle details without requiring the user to type them manually. The system displayed the following information:

Manufacturer: NISSAN
Model: X-TRAIL
Body Type: Station Wagon
Color: Grey
Ownership: Sole Proprietor

Note: You do not need to manually enter details such as the chassis number, model, or body type. As soon as you enter the vehicle plate number, MIMIS automatically pulls the information from the Tanzania government vehicle registration database.

Change From and Change To: These fields are only used when applying for vehicle modifications, such as changing the vehicle color or replacing the engine. If you are applying for a normal vehicle inspection, leave these fields empty.

After confirming that all details are correct, click “Next” to continue.

Step 4: Book Your Appointment For Motor Vehicle Inspection

To book an appointment for a motor vehicle inspection, fill in the following details:

Select Region: Choose the region where you want your vehicle to be inspected. Example: MOROGORO.
Select District / Station: After selecting the region, choose the police station or inspection centre where the inspection will take place. Example: MOROGORO MJINI.
Appointment Date: Choose your preferred inspection date from the calendar. The system will display the available dates for your selected station.

After completing all appointment details, click “Next” to continue.

Step 5: Review Your Full Application

The Preview Information page displays a full summary of all the details entered before you continue to payment. This is the final step where you can review everything carefully and correct any mistakes if needed. The preview section includes the following information:

Personal Information: This section displays the vehicle owner’s details automatically retrieved by MIMIS from the vehicle registration database after entering the number plate.

It includes:

First Names
Surname
Gender
Phone Number of the registered owner

You do not need to type these details manually because the system fetches them automatically.

Vehicle Information: This section shows the vehicle details, including:
Number Plate
Manufacturer
Model
Category
Reason for inspection
From and To region codes

Check carefully to make sure all vehicle information is correct.

Appointment Information: This section displays your selected vehicle inspection appointment date. Confirm that the date and inspection station are correct and convenient for you before proceeding.

Note: If you notice any errors, click “Back” to return and make corrections. If all the information is correct, click “Next” to continue to the payment stage.

Step 6: Pay the Inspection Fee

The final step is to pay the inspection fee. At this stage, you will be issued a bill invoice from the United Republic of Tanzania, Ministry of Home Affairs.
Click “Download Invoice” at the top of the bill to save a PDF copy for your records. You can use this invoice to make payment either online or physically through an authorized bank or designated payment channel.

How to Pay a Motor Vehicle Inspection Fee?

You can pay the motor vehicle inspection fee using two official payment methods:

Method 1: Bank Payment

Visit any branch or authorized agent of CRDB, NMB, or the Bank of Tanzania.
Provide your Control Number to the teller, and they will process the government payment for you.

Method 2: Mobile Network Operator (MNO) Payment

Follow these steps on the MIMIS payment page:

Open the USSD menu of your mobile operator such as Vodacom, Airtel, or Tigo
Select option 4: Make Payment
Select option 5: Government Payment
Enter your Control Number (also known as Reference Number), for example 987430586345
Pay the exact amount shown on the screen

Note: After completing the payment, make sure to keep your payment confirmation slip or message as proof for your inspection appointment.

Step 7: Attend Your Appointment and Get Inspected

On your appointment date, visit the inspection station or centre you selected. Make sure you carry the following documents:

Vehicle registration card
National ID
Valid insurance certificate
Proof of payment (SMS confirmation or bank receipt)

At the inspection site, the inspector will examine your vehicle using the official PF.93 form, which includes 13 key inspection areas:

Speed Test
Electrical System
Fitting and Equipment
Braking Systems
Wheels
Suspension and Undercarriage
Steering
Engine Performance
Exhaust System
Transmission and Drive
Instrument Panel
Dimensions
Radiation

In some cases, inspectors may also take photographs of the vehicle and conduct a short test drive depending on the vehicle type.

Step 8: Receive Your Vehicle Inspection Report

If your vehicle passes all 13 inspection components, you will be issued a Vehicle Inspection Report. This report is signed and stamped by a Traffic Police Inspector and carries the official Tanzania Police Force seal along with a QR code for digital verification. The report confirms:

Pass result for all 13 components
No Prohibition on Use stamp
Inspector name, rank, and badge number
Inspection date and validity end date
Control Number and Inspection Number (VIRNO)

Validity Period: The inspection report is valid for 6 months for commercial and goods vehicles and up to 12 months for private vehicles. Always check the “Valid Until” date on your report.

If your vehicle fails the inspection, the inspector will issue a prohibition notice listing the defects. You must fix the issues, pay a re-inspection fee, and return for another inspection.

How to Get Your Inspection Report Online After Inspection

You can download your vehicle inspection report online through the MIMIS portal at mimis.tpf.go.tz/search-vir. Follow the simple steps below:

Step 1: Open Inspection Report

Go to the MIMIS homepage and click on the “Inspection Report” option. You will then be redirected to a new page.

Step 2: Download Report and E-Sticker

Enter your Vehicle Inspection Number (VIRNO) in the required field and click Next.
This will allow you to view and download your complete inspection report online.
After that, use the same VIRNO to access and download your digital windshield sticker for your vehicle.

How to Check Vehicle Inspection Status Online

You can check your vehicle inspection status through several official methods:

On the MIMIS platform (mimis.tpf.go.tz), simply use the Inspection Report option on the homepage or visit mimis.tpf.go.tz/search-vir and enter your VIRNO to view your inspection details.
You can also use the TMS Check Portal at tms.tpf.go.tz by entering your vehicle’s plate number. This option allows you to see inspection status along with any outstanding fines and driving licence information in one place.
Another easy method is via USSD by dialing 15275# on any mobile network in Tanzania, which provides quick vehicle information through SMS.
Additionally, you can download and use the TPF Portal App, also known as the TMS Check app, from Google Play. It lets you manage vehicle inspections and access your records directly from your smartphone.

Vehicle Inspection Report PDF

The official document provided after a successful motor vehicle inspection is the Vehicle Inspection Report D (PF.93), which is issued by the Tanzania Police Force under the Ministry of Home Affairs.

A typical vehicle inspection report PDF includes key details about the vehicle’s identity, inspection results, and overall roadworthiness status. It confirms whether the vehicle has passed or failed the inspection and may also contain technical findings recorded during the inspection process, along with official remarks and certification details.

Vehicle Information Section:

Inspection Number
Registration Number
Chassis Number
Inspection Date and Valid Until date
Vehicle Make and Model
Owner’s Name and Address
Driver’s Name and Address
Control Number
Place of Inspection

Inspection Results Section: This part lists all 13 vehicle components, with each item clearly marked as either “Pass” or “Fail” depending on its condition.
No Prohibition on Use Section: If the vehicle successfully passes the inspection, the report includes a statement confirming that “To use the vehicle on road is not prohibited,” along with the date and location (town) of the inspection.
Inspector Details: This section contains the inspector’s information, including their name, rank, badge number, signature, and the inspection date. If the vehicle fails, it may also include the reason for failure.
Final Result: The final outcome is shown as a pass or fail checkbox, officially signed and stamped by the Traffic Police Inspector and Examiner. It also carries the official Tanzania Police Force seal, and includes a QR code for digital verification.

Motor Vehicle Inspection Report Sample Download

Motor Vehicle Inspection Fees

The table below shows the officially confirmed and up-to-date government vehicle inspection fees.

Vehicle Category	Fee (TZS)
Private Saloon Cars	5,000
Commercial Saloon Cars	10,000
Private Motorcycle	5,000
Commercial Motorcycle	10,000
00 Tonnes to 05 Tonnes	15,000
06 Tonnes to 15 Tonnes	20,000
16 Tonnes to 30 Tonnes	25,000
31 Tonnes and Above	30,000

Quick Self-Check Before Your Appointment

Before taking your vehicle for inspection, it’s a good idea to check a few things at home to avoid unnecessary failure.

Outside checks: Make sure all headlights, brake lights, and indicators are working properly. The windscreen should not have any cracks, and the wipers must be in good working condition. Also, ensure the tyres are not worn out and still have sufficient tread depth.
Inside checks: All seatbelts should fasten securely and hold properly. There should be no warning lights showing on the dashboard, and all mirrors must be correctly fitted and adjusted.
Engine checks: The engine should start smoothly without difficulty, there should be no unusual sounds, and no excessive smoke coming from the exhaust. The temperature should remain within a normal range during operation.
Documents check: Carry all required documents including your vehicle registration card, valid insurance, National ID, and proof of any required payments.

Why Do You Need a Vehicle Inspection in Tanzania?

Vehicle inspection in Tanzania is important because:

It ensures that your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. This means essential parts like brakes and lights must be functioning properly, tyres should be in good condition, and the vehicle should not emit harmful smoke.
Without a valid inspection report, your vehicle may be considered unfit for the road, which can result in fines or even your car being stopped by traffic police.

How Motor Vehicle Inspection Connects to Your Insurance

Many drivers think inspection and insurance are two separate things that is not true because vehicle inspection certificate is necessary for insurance claim in case of an accident. As ff your vehicle is not roadworthy, it can affect how your insurance claim when something goes wrong.

Why inspection matters for insurance

In Tanzania, insurance companies expect your car to be in a safe condition while driving. The inspection report from MIMIS is basically proof that your vehicle has been checked and is safe to use on the road.

If your inspection has expired or you never did it, the insurer may look more closely at your claim, especially if the accident could be linked to a mechanical problem.

What happens during accidents and checks

When there is an accident or a roadblock check, officers can see both your insurance and inspection status. If your inspection is not valid, it is seen as a compliance issue even if your insurance is active.

This can make things more complicated during investigations because authorities want to know if the vehicle was actually safe to drive at that time.

Third party insurance

Third party insurance is required by law and mainly covers damage or injuries to other people. But if the vehicle was clearly not in good condition and that contributed to the accident, it can create issues during the claim process.

Comprehensive insurance

Comprehensive insurance also expects your car to be in a proper driving condition. If the vehicle is found to be poorly maintained or without a valid inspection report, the insurer might won’t agree for the claim. The inspection certificate helps show that your car was safe to drive.

Conclusion

Motor Vehicle inspection in Tanzania plays a very important role in making sure that all vehicles on the road are safe, reliable, and fit for use. It helps confirm that key safety systems such as brakes, lights, steering, and tyres are working properly and meet the required standards. This process reduces the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failures and ensures better road safety for everyone.

During the Motor Vehicle inspection, attention is also given to the overall condition of the vehicle, including whether it produces excessive or harmful exhaust smoke. Vehicles that fail to meet environmental and safety requirements are identified and required to be repaired before they can be allowed back on the road. This helps promote cleaner air and more responsible vehicle maintenance among drivers.

Without a valid Motor vehicle inspection report, a vehicle is considered unfit for legal road use. This can lead to penalties such as fines or the vehicle being stopped and restricted by traffic police. In some cases, insurance claims may also be affected if a vehicle is found to be uninspected, making regular inspection an essential legal and safety requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Motor vehicle inspection is a process where your vehicle is checked to confirm it is safe for the road. It looks at key parts like brakes, lights, tyres, steering, and engine condition. In Tanzania, this is done through the MIMIS system by the Tanzania Police Force.

All vehicle owners in Tanzania must do inspection, including private cars, motorcycles, buses, and trucks. Both private and commercial vehicles are required to stay compliant with inspection rules.

You apply through the official MIMIS portal at mimis.tpf.go.tz. You enter your number plate, fill in your details, choose an inspection centre and date, and then pay the required fee.

If your vehicle fails, you will be given a list of problems that need to be fixed. After repairing them, you can go back for re-inspection after paying a small re-check fee.

For private vehicles, the inspection report is usually valid for up to 12 months. For commercial and goods vehicles, it is generally valid for 6 months.

Yes, indirectly. Insurance companies expect your vehicle to be in good condition. If your car is involved in an accident and the inspection is expired or the vehicle is not roadworthy, it may affect how your insurance claim is reviewed.

You need your vehicle registration card, national ID, valid insurance certificate, and proof of payment for the inspection fee.

MIMIS Motor Vehicle Inspection 2026: How To Apply

What Is Motor Vehicle Inspection in Tanzania?