The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has introduced a wheel tax amnesty aimed at assisting thousands of vehicle owners whose cars were grounded during the COVID-19 pandemic, as part of the government’s 2024–2025 National Budget.
Starting from August 1, 2024, and running until July 31, 2025, this initiative waives accumulated wheel tax arrears to alleviate financial pressures on car owners.
The amnesty was established under Legal Notice No. 73 of the Land Transport (Fees & Penalties) (Amendment) Regulations 2024, allowing vehicle owners to return their cars to the road without the burden of unpaid wheel fees.
Irimaia Rokosawa, the Acting Chief Executive Officer of LTA, remarked that the program symbolizes the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens’ economic recovery post-pandemic.
“The wheel tax amnesty offers crucial relief for vehicle owners, enabling them to use their vehicles again without the weight of accumulating debts,” said Rokosawa.
This amnesty covers wheel tax arrears for vehicles that expired between July 4, 2016, and July 31, 2023, including the Road User Levy and other fees under the Accident Compensation Act 2017. The waiver applies from the expiry date to the inspection date during the amnesty duration.
However, vehicles that expired on or before July 3, 2016, will incur arrears from their expiry date until July 3, 2016. Additionally, arrears will be assessed on vehicles registered between August 1, 2023, and July 31, 2024.
To avail of the amnesty, vehicle owners need to pay for a vehicle inspection application, renew their Motor Vehicle Accident Levy (MVAL), and settle any outstanding fines. After completing these steps, vehicles can be inspected at an approved agency or LTA facility to ensure they meet safety regulations.
Rokosawa noted, “A successful inspection will lead to the issuance of a Certificate of Road Worthiness (CORW) or a Certificate of Fitness (COF), allowing the vehicle to operate legally on the road.”
It is important to note that the amnesty does not apply to vehicles that were deregistered by the LTA due to violations of the Land Transport Act of 1998, or those whose registrations were suspended, transferred, or canceled by court order.
While the amnesty offers financial relief, Rokosawa emphasized that road safety remains the LTA’s main priority.
Vehicle owners seeking more information about the wheel tax amnesty can contact these LTA officials:
– 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)