11/07/2025
HOW RTA INSURANCE WORKS IN ZIMBABWE
Road Traffic Act (RTA) Insurance in Zimbabwe is a mandatory third-party motor insurance required by law under the Road Traffic Act [Chapter 13:11].
What Is RTA Insurance?
RTA insurance is basic third-party liability coverage that provides financial protection to third parties (e.g., pedestrians, other drivers) in the event that the insured driver causes an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage.
Legal Requirement
• Every vehicle using public roads in Zimbabwe must have valid RTA insurance.
• It is enforced by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and is a prerequisite for licensing your vehicle (ZINARA licensing).
• Driving without RTA insurance is illegal and can lead to fines or prosecution.
What Does RTA Insurance Cover?
• Injury or death of third parties caused by your vehicle.
• Damage to third-party property (in some cases, depending on the insurer and cover level).
• It does not cover:
o Damage to your own vehicle.
o Injury to the driver or vehicle owner.
o Theft or fire.
How to Get RTA Insurance
You can obtain RTA insurance from registered insurers, either:
1. Directly from an insurance company (e.g., Alliance Insurance Company together with its Agents).
2. Through agents/brokers, including on platforms like Icecash (used by many agents and ZINARA kiosks).
How Long Does It Last?
• Usually issued for 4 months, 6 months, or 12 months.
• It must be renewed regularly to stay compliant.
NB: RTA insurance is the minimum legal cover. You can upgrade to comprehensive cover if you want protection for your own vehicle, theft, fire, etc.
• The insurance sticker must be displayed on your windscreen to prove compliance during roadblocks or licensing.
The benefits of having RTA insurance to a motorist in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, RTA (Road Traffic Act) insurance provides several important benefits to motorists, even though it's a basic, third-party-only cover. Here are the key benefits:
1. Legal Compliance
• Mandatory by law under the Road Traffic Act [Chapter 13:11].
• Having RTA insurance helps motorists avoid:
o Fines
o Vehicle impoundment
o Arrest or prosecution for non-compliance
• Required to obtain a ZINARA vehicle license.
2. Financial Protection for Third-Party Liabilities
• Covers the cost of injuries or death to other people (not the driver) in an accident you cause.
• In some policies, also covers third-party property damage (e.g., other vehicles, fences, etc.).
• Prevents the motorist from paying huge compensation amounts out of pocket.
3. Peace of Mind
• Offers assurance that in case of an accident involving third parties, you have a financial safety net.
• Protects you from unexpected legal claims or compensation demands.
4. Roadblock and Police Clearance
• RTA insurance is often checked at police roadblocks.
• Having it ensures you pass through smoothly without facing penalties.
5. Enables Business or Commercial Use
• For business vehicles (like taxis, buses, delivery vans), RTA insurance ensures legal operation and avoids downtime due to impoundment or licensing issues.
6. Affordable and Easily Renewable
• RTA insurance is low-cost compared to comprehensive cover.
• Can be bought for 3, 6, or 12 months depending on your budget.
• Available through multiple channels (agents, brokers, Icecash, online platforms).
