The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has introduced a wheel tax amnesty for numerous motor vehicles that were inactive during the COVID-19 pandemic, following the government’s 2024–2025 National Budget announcement.
Effective from August 1, 2024, this initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on car owners, as it allows for the waiver of accumulated wheel tax arrears until July 31, 2025.
This program was established by Legal Notice No. 73 of the Land Transport (Fees & Penalties) (Amendment) Regulations 2024, enabling vehicle owners to get their cars back on the road without the concern of unpaid wheel fees.
According to LTA Acting Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa, this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to supporting citizens in their economic recovery post-pandemic.
“The wheel tax amnesty offers significant relief for vehicle owners, permitting them to utilize their vehicles again without the burden of accrued arrears,” stated Rokosawa.
The amnesty will cover wheel tax arrears for vehicles that expired between July 4, 2016, and July 31, 2023, including the Road User Levy and fees associated with the Accident Compensation Act 2017. The waiver applies only from July 4, 2016, to the vehicle’s inspection date during the amnesty period.
However, vehicles that expired on or before July 3, 2016, will incur arrears from the date of expiration until July 3, 2016. Additionally, arrears will be imposed on vehicles registered between August 1, 2023, and July 31, 2024.
To benefit from the amnesty, vehicle owners must submit a vehicle inspection application, renew their Motor Vehicle Accident Levy (MVAL), and settle any outstanding fines. Following these steps, vehicles can be inspected for compliance with safety regulations at an authorized agency or LTA inspection facility.
“Successful inspections will lead to the issuance of a Certificate of Road Worthiness (CORW) or a Certificate of Fitness (COF), allowing the vehicle to be legally operated on the road,” explained Rokosawa.
It is important to note that the amnesty does not apply to vehicles deregistered by LTA due to violations of the Land Transport Act of 1998 or to vehicles with registration suspended, transferred, or canceled by court order.
While the amnesty provides financial relief, Rokosawa emphasized that road safety remains the top priority for the LTA.
For more details regarding the wheel tax amnesty, vehicle owners can reach out to the following LTA representatives:
– Acting Regional Manager Central Eastern – Mr. Mosese Foalo (9905478)
– Acting Regional Manager West – Mr. Kolinio Levaci Sr (9331353)
– Acting Regional Manager North – Mr. Sevuloni Waituruturu (9983732)
– Manager Customer Service – Ms. Kavita Shah (9904605)