Dozens of motorists in Port of Spain expressed frustration this week as Trinidad and Tobago’s Licensing Department implemented substantial new late fees for driver’s license renewals without adequate prior notification. The situation came to a head on January 5th at the Wrightson Road licensing office, where numerous drivers discovered they would need to pay an additional $600 penalty atop the standard $500 renewal charge.
The controversy stems from a January 2nd memo from Transport Commissioner Clive Clarke that circulated online just days before implementation. The new fee structure establishes graduated penalties based on expiration duration: $600 late fee for permits expired six months or less, rising to $1,000 for those expired six months to three years, and reaching $3,500 for licenses expired three to five years. Those with permits expired beyond five years must completely retake their driving test.
Several drivers highlighted particular grievances regarding the timing of implementation. Multiple individuals noted their licenses expired on January 4th—which fell on a Sunday when offices were closed—effectively denying them any opportunity to renew punctually. One professional, who works in sensitive police evidence collection, stated he had no choice but to pay the penalty despite the financial burden, as his livelihood depends on valid driving credentials.
Beyond the fee structure, visitors criticized the office’s operational management. Complaints included chaotic customer handling procedures and apparent malfunctions in the computerized record system. Newsday briefly engaged Transport Minister Eli Zakour during lunchtime, who committed to a callback that had not occurred by publication time.
The implementation has raised questions about equitable public notification processes and government service delivery standards, particularly for essential documentation affecting citizens’ mobility and employment.