A dramatic surge in vehicle inspections has swept across Trinidad following the implementation of steeper penalties for driving without valid certification. Effective January 1st, fines for operating vehicles without proper inspection stickers skyrocketed from $1,000 to $2,000, triggering unprecedented demand at inspection stations nationwide.
The overwhelming response began immediately after the increased penalties were publicized on Christmas Day. Damian Chow of Chow’s Service Bay in Sangre Grande reported inspection facilities being inundated with vehicles, particularly public service vehicles like maxis and taxis that are now eligible for certification at private stations. “This is happening across the board,” Chow confirmed, noting that many garages have implemented appointment systems and extended to seven-day operations to manage the influx.
At Suncoast Enterprises Ltd in Penal, manager Zobida Gilbert reported processing 30-35 vehicles daily, though the transition to a new digital system has revealed documentation discrepancies. Many motorists now face additional trips to the Licensing Office in Caroni to rectify typographical errors before certificates can be issued.
The situation has created secondary challenges, with inspection stations making frequent trips to licensing offices for sticker replenishment, often encountering long queues alongside citizens addressing documentation issues. Gilbert suggested implementing dedicated lines for vehicle testing stations to improve efficiency.
The intensified enforcement has had severe consequences for some motorists. Ravi Baboolal, a 39-year-old coconut vendor from Friendship Village, received six tickets totaling $19,000 during a traffic stop on January 4th. The citations included penalties for defective tires, unsecured load, and driving without valid insurance—a charge Baboolal vehemently disputes, presenting documentation showing coverage valid until January 29, 2026.
Baboolal’s case highlights the disproportionate impact on working citizens, as the substantial fines exceed his annual earnings. “I cannot afford to pay $19,000,” he stated, explaining that such penalties would force him to sell his vehicle—essential to his livelihood—to settle the debt by the February 3rd deadline.
The Owner Dealers Association has appealed to the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation for a one-to-three-month delay in implementing the new fees and penalties. Association president Reval Chattergoon cited the “increased mental stress and financial strain on citizens” resulting from the abrupt changes announced without sufficient warning or transition period.
While acknowledging the need for road safety improvements, Chattergoon proposed alternative revenue generation methods, including vanity license plates and expanded vehicle registration programs, arguing these would provide more humane approaches to achieving the government’s objectives.