The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Fiji has issued a stern warning to vehicle owners, car show organizers, and vendors regarding the legal implications of using, selling, or exhibiting unauthorized number plates. This announcement comes in response to an uptick in reports of individuals using unapproved personalized or novelty plates, including counterfeit replicas of official registrations, during public car events.
Violators of this regulation may be subjected to a fine of $100, and in certain cases, could have their vehicles seized if unauthorized plates are discovered. The LTA is also investigating vendors who are supplying these illegal plates without proper authorization.
According to Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa, these practices not only present a significant threat to public safety but also starkly contravene the established Land Transport Act. The LTA asserts that it is the sole legal entity in Fiji with the authority to issue and approve vehicle registration plates, deeming any plate not sanctioned by the LTA as illegal.
Rokosawa emphasized that even temporary imitation of official government registration numbers is strictly prohibited, as it undermines legal accountability in vehicle registration. He expressed that while it is common for vehicle shows to highlight modifications, all vehicle alterations, including changes to number plates, lighting, or any structural components, must receive prior approval from the LTA.
In a related effort to maintain road safety and compliance, the LTA is collaborating with police and other enforcement bodies to strengthen adherence to these regulations. This push aims to ensure that any modifications made by vehicle owners are conducted lawfully and do not compromise safety standards.
As the LTA works towards tighter enforcement and promotes safety on the roads, this initiative can contribute to a future where both the aesthetic and functional modifications of vehicles are better regulated, ensuring safety for all road users. By upholding compliance with these regulations, Fiji can foster a more responsible vehicle culture.
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