This guide breaks down the process, fees, and important tips to ensure your vehicle's registration is handled smoothly and kept up to date.

How to Register a Motor Vehicle in Trinidad & Tobago (Step-by-Step)

Registering a vehicle might seem daunting, but it's straightforward if you come prepared. Here's how to get it done:

Obtain the Required Forms and Documents

Visit a Licensing Division office (e.g. in Port of Spain, San Fernando, Caroni or Scarborough) to get the application form for vehicle registration (Form No. 6 for private vehicles). You must be at least 17 years old to register a vehicle.

If you bought a new vehicle from a local dealer, they will provide a Pro Forma Invoice and a Motor Vehicle Tax Form required for registration. Gather other necessary documents like proof of ownership (invoice or bill of sale), your valid ID (driver's permit or national ID), and a certificate of insurance in your name. (Yes, you need insurance before registering the car – more on that later.)

Complete Inspection (if Required)

For new and imported vehicles, the next step is a vehicle inspection at the Licensing Division. Pay the weighbridge fee (TT$20) and have your car weighed and inspected on-site. The inspectors will check that the car meets roadworthy standards and complies with the road traffic laws. If you're transferring a used local vehicle, an inspection is also done at this stage to verify its identity and condition.

Submit Documents and Pay Fees

With forms filled out and documents in hand, submit your application in person at the Licensing Division. An officer will review everything – including your completed registration form, ownership documents, ID, and insurance certificate – to ensure they are in order.

If you imported a foreign-used vehicle, be ready to present all additional import documents (like the Customs C82 form, import licence, Bureau of Standards certificate, etc.) and proof that duties and taxes have been paid. Once approved, you'll pay the required fees (registration fees and any applicable taxes) at the cashier. Keep the receipt as proof.

Receive Your Certificate of Registration and License Plates

After payment, the Licensing Division will issue your vehicle's Certificate of Registration and assign license plate numbers. Plates are usually provided and installed once everything is processed. Congratulations – your car is now officially registered! Make sure to keep the registration certificate (often called the "Certified Copy") in a safe place, as you'll need it for proof of ownership and any future transactions.

Fees for Registration

The cost of registering a vehicle in Trinidad & Tobago depends on the type of vehicle and the situation. Here's a breakdown of common fees:

New Private Motor Vehicle

Registration fee of TT$100, plus a TT$20 weighbridge fee for the inspection. In addition, a one-time Motor Vehicle Tax is applied based on the vehicle's engine size or value (this tax is calculated by the authorities and must be paid before registration is completed). For example, a small sedan will have a lower tax than a large SUV. The dealer usually assists with the tax paperwork for new cars.

Imported (Foreign-Used) Vehicle

Registration fee of around TT$120. Before you can register an imported used car, you must pay all import duties and obtain necessary documents like the Customs import receipt, Bill of Lading, and an inspection certificate from the Trinidad & Tobago Bureau of Standards. These ensure the vehicle meets local standards. The TT$120 fee typically covers the registration and plate issuance for the imported vehicle (slightly higher than local new registration to account for extra processing).

Change of Ownership (Transfer)

When you buy or sell a used vehicle locally, both the seller and buyer must go to the Licensing Division to transfer the registration. The basic transfer fee is just TT$10. However, there's also a transfer tax based on the age of the vehicle (how long it's been registered in T&T).

Newer vehicles have higher taxes, and older ones have lower taxes. For example, transferring a car that's under 2 years old costs a hefty TT$6,000 in transfer tax, whereas a car over 10 years old costs about TT$150. Intermediate ages have scaled rates (e.g. around TT$4,500 for 2–5-year-old cars). These fees are paid by the new owner at the time of transfer. It's important to budget for the transfer tax if you're buying a relatively new used car.

Keep in mind that fees can be updated by the government, so it's wise to check the latest fee schedule or call the Licensing Division if you're unsure. Aside from these, if you ever need a replacement registration certificate or other special services, small administrative fees (usually around TT$100 or less) may apply.

Amendments to the Motor Vehicle Register

Vehicle registration isn't a one-and-done deal for the life of the car – you're required to update the records if certain details change. Amendments to the Motor Vehicle Register refer to any official updates to your vehicle's registered details, such as a change of colour, a new engine, or changes to the owner's personal information.

Common scenarios include:

Changing the vehicle's colour: If you repaint your car a different colour, you must inform the Licensing Division. They will update the registration to reflect the new colour.

Engine or chassis changes: Maybe you had to replace the engine, or there was a correction to the chassis number. You need to file a notification of change so that the new engine or chassis number is recorded on your registration.

Owner's name or address change: If you've changed your name (for example, after marriage) or moved to a new address, you should update those details on the vehicle registration record as well.

To process an amendment, visit the Licensing Division and request the relevant "Notification of Change" form (there are specific forms depending on what you're changing). Fill out the form and submit it with any supporting documents. For instance, to change your name, you'd bring your marriage certificate or deed poll, to change an engine, you might bring the invoice for the new engine, etc. The vehicle may be required for inspection in cases like colour or engine changes, so be prepared to present the car for verification.

There is a small fee for amendments. In most cases, a standard TT$100 "notification of change" fee applies to update the register. Once you pay, an officer will endorse your Certificate of Registration with the new details or issue an updated one. It's important to do this promptly after a change – keeping the registration accurate ensures you stay on the right side of the law and avoids any confusion about the vehicle's identity.

Why Keep Your Vehicle Registration Up to Date?

Keeping your vehicle registration current isn't just about bureaucracy – it has real benefits and is required by law. First and foremost, legal compliance: driving an unregistered or improperly registered vehicle is illegal. For example, if you sell your car to someone and don't transfer the ownership within seven days, the law says that vehicle shouldn't be on the road under the new owner. You could face fines or other penalties for failing to update the records.

Secondly, an accurate registration ensures that insurance coverage remains valid. Insurance policies in T&T are tied to the vehicle and the policyholder; if the official records don't match (say, you changed the engine and didn't report it, or you never transferred the car to your name), you might run into problems if you need to make a claim. Keeping the registration up to date helps avoid any loopholes an insurer might use to deny coverage.

Finally, practical peace of mind: up-to-date records make life easier. If your car is stolen or there's an accident, having the correct owner and vehicle details on file means authorities can reach the right person and there's no dispute about ownership. When you go to sell or trade in the vehicle, a current registration makes the transaction smoother, too. In short, staying on top of your vehicle registration is part of being a responsible vehicle owner.

Comprehensive Coverage, With Genac

While you're sorting out your vehicle registration, it's also the perfect time to think about protecting your car on the road. By law in Trinidad & Tobago, you must have at least third-party insurance coverage to register and drive your vehicle.

General Accident can help you go beyond the basics. We offer comprehensive auto insurance that not only meets the legal requirements but also covers damage to your own vehicle, theft, fire, and more. With Genac's coverage, you get peace of mind knowing that an accident or mishap won't derail your finances.

Our customers in Trinidad & Tobago trust us to deliver prompt, reliable service – from quick quotes to hassle-free claims. Keep your car fully protected with Genac, and enjoy the drive knowing you're backed by one of the region's leading insurers. Contact us today for a quote or to learn more about our motor insurance plans.