Ministry rejects claims of increased fees under new digital vehicle registration policy

The Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport says it "categorically rejects" and condemns "false claims" that motorists are required to pay increased fees under the Government’s new digital motor vehicle registration and e-fitness certificate policy.

The ministry says that there has been no change to the standard annual fitness fee, and any suggestion that motorists must now pay three to five years of fees upfront is false and misleading, according to a statement issued Friday.

It also warns that any individual or entity spreading misinformation or attempting to charge motorists beyond the lawful fees will be subject to investigation and disciplinary action.

“Any public servant or agency representative demanding upfront payment of multiple years of fitness fees is acting outside the law and will face serious disciplinary action. We will not tolerate the exploitation of motorists through misinformation. Anyone found spreading false claims or attempting to impose unauthorized charges will be held accountable, swiftly and decisively," said portfolio minister Daryl Vaz.

The policy, which takes effect on July 21, 2025, will eliminate the use of printed motor vehicle registration certificate decal stickers and paper-based fitness and registration certificates. These will now be issued electronically, resulting in significant cost savings to motorists and the Government.

The ministry is encouraging motorists to report any incidents of overcharging or misinformation by emailing cr@mset.gov.jm.

Follow The Gleaner on X, formerly Twitter, and Instagram @JamaicaGleaner and on Facebook @GleanerJamaica. Send us a message on WhatsApp at 1-876-499-0169 or email us at onlinefeedback@gleanerjm.com or editors@gleanerjm.com.