When can your fuel-powered vehicle move on Rwandan roads without emissions test?

Rwanda has begun enforcing mandatory emission tests for all fuel-powered vehicles, but a new ministerial order published on Monday, August 25 has spelt out a few exceptions. For instance, brand-new cars that have been in use for less than two years, as well as vehicles in transit for a limited period, will not need an emission test certificate to be allowed on the road. ALSO READ: Air quality: Rwanda to start testing motorcycle emissions, enhance compliance The ministerial order on air pollutant emissions sets the rules for vehicle emissions with the aim of reducing pollution. It was issued by the Ministry of Environment and approved by Cabinet as a reviewed version of the 2018 ministerial order. Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA) set August 25 as the day on which the “enhanced” emissions tests would start nationwide. As per the order, fuel-powered vehicles must undergo and pass an emissions inspection to receive a certificate before they can operate. But there are specific exceptions that apply. These include: - Vehicles transiting or staying in Rwanda for up to three months Any fuel-powered vehicle that passes an emission test must get a certificate to operate in Rwanda. However, the order provides that such vehicles may be permitted to move on public highways without being subject to testing if they are transiting through Rwanda or staying in Rwanda for a period not exceeding three months. ALSO READ: Air quality: Govt introduces changes in vehicle emissions testing However, if the three-month stay is exceeded, the vehicle must undergo inspection. Also, a fuel-based vehicle that has not yet been inspected or has failed the inspection may be permitted to move on public highway if: · It is being driven from the inspection centre to a garage; · It is being driven from the impoundment yard to a garage; · It is being driven from garage back to the inspection centre (for a re-inspection); · A second-hand motorised means of transport is being driven from the entry border point to a public or private warehouse. · A motorised means of transport is driven from a warehouse to the inspection centre. - Brand new vehicles in operation for less than two years The order specified that a brand new fuel-based means of transport that has been in operation for less than two years is not required to undergo air pollutant emission inspection before the expiry of that time period. However, the exemption does not apply to second-hand (or used) vehicles.

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When can your fuel-powered vehicle move on Rwandan roads without emissions test?