In recent months, “Uganda traffic fines” has become a trending search term, largely due to the nationwide rollout of the EPS (Express Penalty Scheme). This new system has transformed how traffic offences are issued, recorded, and paid across the country. If you’re a driver in Uganda—or plan to drive here—understanding the EPS is now essential to avoiding fines and legal complications.
This guide covers everything you need to know: how the EPS works, what offences it targets, how to pay, and how to stay compliant.
Table of Contents
- What Is the EPS System in Uganda?
- Objectives Behind Uganda’s EPS Traffic Reform
- Common Offences and EPS Fines
- How to Pay EPS Traffic Fines
- How to Check EPS Fines Online
- FAQs about Uganda Traffic Fines and EPS
- External Resources
What Is the EPS System in Uganda?
EPS stands for Express Penalty Scheme, a traffic enforcement mechanism managed by the Uganda Police Force in collaboration with the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA). It replaces the old, manual issuance of tickets with a digital, real-time system.
Traffic officers now use electronic handheld devices to issue digital tickets (EPS tickets) on the spot, which are linked to the offender’s driving record and the URA’s central database.
Key Features:
- Instant generation of a Payment Registration Number (PRN)
- Digital tracking of offences
- Integration with Uganda’s vehicle and driver database
- 28-day payment window
- Multiple payment methods including mobile money and online banking
Objectives Behind Uganda’s EPS Traffic Reform
The EPS system was introduced to solve several chronic issues with Uganda’s road safety and enforcement framework:
| Problem | EPS Solution |
|---|---|
| Manual ticketing | Digital, tamper-proof fines |
| Corruption & bribery | Cashless payment & digital trail |
| Court backlogs | On-spot penalty resolution |
| Poor compliance tracking | Centralised offence record system |
The main goal is to increase road discipline, reduce traffic congestion, and significantly cut down on accidents caused by repeat offenders.
According to Uganda Police Annual Reports, over 3,000 road fatalities occurred in 2023. The EPS is seen as a key tool to reverse this trend.
Common Offences and EPS Fines
Here are some of the most frequently issued EPS fines:
| Offence | EPS Fine (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Speeding | 100,000 – 500,000 |
| Driving without a valid license | 200,000 |
| Driving without insurance | 150,000 |
| Seatbelt/helmet violations | 100,000 per person |
| Using a phone while driving | 150,000 |
| Obstructing traffic | 80,000 |
| Parking in a restricted zone | 70,000 |
| Dangerous driving (repeat) | Court summons + EPS points |
Some offences also come with demerit points. Accumulating these can lead to the suspension of your driving license.
How to Pay EPS Traffic Fines
Option 1: Mobile Money (MTN / Airtel)
- Dial
*165#(MTN) or*185#(Airtel) - Select Pay Bills > URA
- Enter the PRN from your EPS ticket
- Confirm and pay
Option 2: Online via URA
- Visit https://www.ura.go.ug
- Go to eServices > Payment Registration
- Enter PRN and proceed to payment via card or mobile
Option 3: Bank
Pay directly at designated commercial banks using the PRN from your EPS ticket.
📌 Important: Always keep the confirmation SMS or receipt as proof of payment. Officers may request it during follow-up checks.
How to Check EPS Fines Online
You can check if you or your vehicle has pending fines by visiting:
👉 Uganda Police EPS Portal: https://www.upf.go.ug/eps
👉 URA EPS Lookup: https://www.ura.go.ug
Simply enter:
- Vehicle registration number
- Driver’s license number
- PRN (if known)
You’ll see a list of unpaid fines, their status, and payment options.
FAQs About Uganda Traffic Fines and EPS
Q1: What happens if I don’t pay an EPS fine within 28 days?
The fine escalates and your vehicle may be impounded. Repeated failure can lead to a court summons.
Q2: Can I appeal an EPS ticket?
Yes, you can request to appear in court instead of paying the EPS, but you must notify the officer at the time of ticket issuance.
Q3: Are EPS fines issued only by traffic officers?
No. Cameras and automated systems are being piloted in Kampala and on highways to auto-generate fines for speeding or red-light violations.
Q4: Is EPS in effect across all of Uganda?
As of 2025, EPS is operational in all major towns, highways, and border areas, and gradually expanding to rural areas.
Q5: What if I lose my PRN?
You can regenerate it online via the URA or EPS portal by searching with your vehicle registration or driver’s license number.
External Resources
- Uganda Police Force – EPS Official Portal
- Uganda Revenue Authority – Traffic Penalty Payment
- Ministry of Works and Transport Uganda
- World Health Organization – Road Safety Data
Final Thoughts
The introduction of the EPS system marks a major leap forward in traffic enforcement in Uganda. It offers a fairer, faster, and more transparent method for dealing with minor road violations. As traffic digitisation grows, being informed and compliant is your best defence against fines and penalties.
Stay updated, drive responsibly, and when in doubt—check your EPS status.
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