ZBC License Fees on Tuesday, 01 July 2025

Licence Type	USD Fees Per Quarter	USD Fees Per Year	ZiG Fees Per Quarter	ZiG Fees Per Year
Private Car radio licence	US$23.00	US$92.00	619.85 ZIG	2 479.42 ZIG
Home radio licence (rural)	US$5.00	US$20.00	134.75 ZIG	539.00 ZIG
Home radio licence (urban)	US$10.00	US$40.00	269.50 ZIG	1 078.01 ZIG
Home TV licence (Includes Radio)	US$25.00	US$100.00	673.76 ZIG	2 695.02 ZIG
Business radio licence	N/A	US$100.00	N/A	2 695.02 ZIG
Company car radio	US$50.00	US$200.00	1 347.51 ZIG	5 390.04 ZIG
Company TV licence (Includes Radio)	N/A	US$200.00	N/A	5 390.04 ZIG

Last Updated on Tuesday 01 July 2025 at 09:42:50 Central Africa Time

• If you own a car the government now requires you to buy a radio licence first before you can get car insurance.
• The new fees are in USD even though they are payable in ZiG at the prevailing official exchange rate
• Everyone who owns a TV or radio is required to pay these licence fees
• Most people don’t although ZBC agents have been known to do inspections

ZBC Licensing: What You Need to Know

Navigating licensing requirements can be tricky. To help, we have compiled answers to common questions about ZBC listener’s licenses.

1. What is a ZBC Listener’s License?

A listener’s license is a government-mandated fee, required for anyone in Zimbabwe with a device capable of receiving radio or television broadcasts. This fee funds ZBC’s operations, as outlined in the Broadcasting Services Act (Chapter 12:06).

2. What types of ZBC Listener’s Licenses are available?

ZBC offers several license types:

• Radio Licenses:
  • Rural Home
  • Urban Home
  • Company (office radio)
• Television Licenses:
  • Urban Home
  • Company
• Vehicle Radio Licenses:
  • Private vehicle
  • Company vehicle
• Other Licenses:
  • Dealers License
  • Concessionary License (free for senior citizens aged 75 and above)

3. Does each device need a separate license?

For businesses, each radio or television receiver requires its own license. Individuals need a single license to cover all devices within their household.

4. Who is exempt from paying for a listener’s license?

The following groups are exempt:

• Accredited diplomats in Zimbabwe
• Blind individuals
• Individuals receiving social welfare support

5. What is the validity period of a listener’s license?

A listener’s license is valid for one calendar year, commencing on January 1st.

6. What if I buy a radio or television during the year?

The license fee becomes payable immediately upon purchasing a new radio or television set.

7. How do I renew my ZBC Listener’s License?

ZBC typically sends out renewal notices about two months in advance. However, it is the license holder’s responsibility to renew on time, even if a renewal notice is not received.

8. What are my payment options for the license fee?

You can pay for your ZBC license in several ways:

• Quarterly Installments: You can choose to pay in quarterly instalments after making the initial annual payment.
• Various Locations: License fees can be paid at any ZBC office, Econet shop, or Zimpost branch nationwide.
• Online: You can renew or purchase your license online at http://licensing.zbc.co.zw.

9. What are the consequences of not having a valid license?

ZBC inspectors conduct periodic checks at homes and businesses to verify licenses. Failure to provide a valid license can lead to:

• A notice requiring you to present your license at the nearest police station within seven days.
• Potential prosecution, which may result in fines or imprisonment.

10. What if I sell or give away my radio or television?

If you sell or gift your device, you are required to inform ZBC in writing within seven days. This notification should include the new owner’s information and the address where the device will be located.

11. Is it possible to transfer my listener’s license?

In most cases, listener’s licenses are not transferable. An exception is made for spouses, who can transfer a license to their partner in the event of their passing.

12. If I live with someone who has a license, do I still need my own?

Yes, every individual needs their own listener’s license, even if residing with someone who already possesses one.