If you want to operate a transportation business in Cameroon (passenger or goods transport), you must obtain a transportation license from the Ministry of Transport. The procedure involves several steps, including business registration, obtaining necessary authorizations, and meeting regulatory requirements.
STEP 1: REGISTER THE BUSINESS
Before applying for a transportation license, you must register your business as a legal entity.
A. Choose a Business Structure
• Sole Proprietorship (Etablissement)
• Private Limited Company (SARL)
• Public Limited Company (SA)
• Cooperative or Transport Union (for shared ownership transport businesses)
B. Business Registration Process (at CFCE – One-Stop Shop)
Required Documents:
1. Business name and activity description
2. Copy of passport or National ID for business owner(s)
3. Proof of residence (rental agreement or property deed)
4. Criminal record extract (Bulletin No. 3)
5. Articles of Association (if SARL or SA)
6. Taxpayer Identification Number (NIF)
7. Payment of registration fees
Step 2: Obtain a Transport License from the Ministry of Transport
Once the business is registered, you must apply for a transportation license.
A. Types of Transport Licenses
1. Passenger Transport License (buses, taxis, interurban transport, etc.)
2. Goods Transport License (trucks, tankers, logistics companies)
3. Specialized Transport License (dangerous goods, refrigerated transport, etc.)
B. Application Proces
Submit an application to the Ministry of Transport (MINTRANS) or the Regional Delegation of Transport where the business operates.
Required Documents:
1. Business registration certificate (RCCM)
2. Taxpayer Identification Number (NIF)
3. Proof of premises (lease agreement or land title)
4. List of vehicles and their registration documents
5. Vehicle roadworthiness certificates (Certificat de Visite Technique)
6. Insurance certificates for each vehicle
7. Proof of employment for qualified drivers (driver’s licenses, contracts, CNPS registration)
8. Application letter addressed to the Minister of Transport or Regional Delegate
C. Payment of License Fees
After approval, you must pay the required license fees based on the type of transport service and the number of vehicles.
Step 3: Obtain Sector-Specific Authorizations (if required)
Depending on your transport activity, you may need extra permits:
• Urban Taxi Services: Authorization from the City Council
• Interurban Bus Services: Route approval from MINTRANS
• Heavy Goods Transport: Compliance with Ministry of Public Works regulations
• Specialized Transport (e.g., petroleum): Certification from the Ministry of Mines & Hydrocarbons
Step 4: Register with CNPS (Social Insurance)
If hiring drivers or staff, register with the National Social Insurance Fund (CNPS) and comply with labour laws.
Step 5: Open a Business Bank Account
A corporate account is necessary for managing payments, tax compliance, and transactions.
Step 6: Obtain the Business License (Patente) from the Tax Office
All businesses, including transport services, must pay for a business license (Patente) from the Taxation Office (DGI).
Required Documents:
1. Business registration certificate
2. Taxpayer Identification Number (NIF)
3. Transport license from the Ministry of Transport
4. Payment of required fees
Step 7: Begin Operations and Periodic Renewals
Once all approvals are obtained, you can start operations. However, you must:
• Renew the transport license annually
• Renew roadworthiness and insurance documents for all vehicles
• Ensure compliance with transport safety
WHAT THEN IS THE ROLE OF KIYAH AND PARTNERS LAW FIRM?
1. Business Incorporation & Registration
• Advising on the most suitable business structure (SARL, SA, or sole proprietorship).
• Assisting with company registration at the One-Stop-Shop (CFCE).
• Drafting and notarizing the Articles of Association and other corporate documents.
• Obtaining the Taxpayer Identification Number (NIF) and registration with the Trade and Personal Property Rights Registry (RCCM).
2. Transport License Application
• Preparing and submitting the license application to the Ministry of Transport.
• Ensuring compliance with all legal requirements for passenger transport, goods transport, or specialized transport.
• Liaising with government agencies to fast-track approvals.
3. Compliance & Regulatory Advisory
• Ensuring compliance with OHADA business laws and Cameroon’s transport regulations.
• Advising on labor laws, including contracts for drivers and employees.
• Securing additional permits for specific transport activities (e.g., hazardous materials, interurban transport).
4. Contract Drafting & Review
• Drafting and reviewing contracts for vehicle leasing, driver agreements, and supplier contracts.
• Negotiating service agreements with partners and clients.
5. Legal Representation & Dispute Resolution
• Representing the company in case of regulatory disputes with authorities.
• Handling legal matters related to accidents, liability issues, or non-compliance penalties.
6. Tax & Financial Advisory
• Advising on tax obligations, including the Patente (business license tax).
• Ensuring compliance with social security (CNPS) contributions for employees.