The Ministry of Works and Transport (MOWT) in Trinidad has addressed mounting public dissatisfaction regarding recent fee increases for late permit renewals, revealing that an administrative miscalculation resulted in some drivers being undercharged during processing on December 6.
The discrepancy came to light during an internal review conducted on the evening of January 5, prompting immediate corrective measures. Ministry officials confirmed that the updated fee structure has been properly implemented on the MOWT’s official portal to ensure transparency and accuracy moving forward.
According to the revised fee schedule, motorists with permits expired for periods not exceeding six months will now incur a late penalty of $650, representing a $50 increase from the previously charged amount. For more significant delays involving permits that have lapsed for over six months but remain within a three-year threshold, the financial penalty has been substantially elevated to $1,750—a dramatic 75% surge from the former $1,000 charge.
The ministry’s announcement follows widespread digital protests from drivers across the nation who expressed frustration through various online platforms regarding the increased financial burden. Despite the public discontent, transportation authorities maintain that the corrected fees reflect the actual costs associated with administrative processing of delinquent permit renewals.
Officials emphasize that the updated fee structure aims to encourage timely renewal compliance while ensuring the proper allocation of resources within the transportation regulatory system. The ministry has encouraged all drivers to verify their permit status and review the updated fee schedule available through official channels to avoid unexpected charges during renewal procedures.