Trinidad and Tobago – Buying or Importing a Car

How do I buy a new car in Trinidad and Tobago as a foreigner?

Buying a brand-new vehicle from an authorised dealership in Trinidad and Tobago is available to residents and non-residents without distinction. Dealerships stock a variety of brands, with Japanese and Korean manufacturers particularly well represented. The overall buying experience resembles that of many other countries — you select your preferred model, negotiate a price, and the dealership will typically manage the registration paperwork on your behalf.

Foreign nationals will generally be required to present a valid passport, evidence of a local address (such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement), and a Tax Identification Number (TIN) issued by the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority (TTARA). It is strongly advisable to obtain your TIN ahead of any significant financial transaction. Always confirm the precise documentation required directly with both the dealership and TTARA, since requirements may be updated.

Securing vehicle finance as a non-resident is often difficult. Local banks and credit unions generally require demonstrated income within Trinidad and Tobago, a local credit history, and documentation such as a work permit or proof of permanent residency. In practice, many expats and short-stay residents pay for new vehicles in full by cash or bank transfer. That said, it is worth approaching multiple local financial institutions to compare what is on offer. Always check current lending criteria with the institutions directly.

A Motor Vehicle Tax (MVT) applies to new vehicle purchases in Trinidad and Tobago and is separate from any import duties. It becomes payable at the point of registration. Before committing to a purchase, request a full on-road price breakdown from your dealership that includes MVT and all applicable registration charges.

How do I buy a used car in Trinidad and Tobago?

The second-hand vehicle market in Trinidad and Tobago is lively, with cars available through private sellers, used car lots, and online classified listings. Pricing fluctuates considerably depending on a vehicle’s age, make, mileage, and registration series. Thorough due diligence before agreeing to any purchase is critical to avoid taking on another owner’s liabilities.

Before finalising a deal, you should: cross-check the vehicle’s registration certificate against the seller’s identification documents; confirm that no outstanding road tax (annual vehicle licence), unpaid traffic fines, or fixed penalty notices are tied to the vehicle; and verify that the chassis and engine numbers correspond to what appears in the registration paperwork. Vehicle registration in Trinidad and Tobago is governed by the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act (Chapter 48:50). The Licensing Division of the Ministry of Works and Transport (MOWT) is the principal authority responsible for registering vehicles, assigning identification marks, and overseeing the production or authorisation of licence plates. You may contact the Licensing Division to verify the registered status of any vehicle prior to purchase.

When the sale takes place, the seller should hand over the original vehicle registration certificate, a valid insurance certificate, a written receipt of sale, and valid identification. You must register any change of vehicle ownership with the Trinidad and Tobago Transport Division, and both the outgoing and incoming owner must jointly apply for a transfer of ownership within seven days of the sale or transfer taking effect.

Changes of ownership and vehicle safety inspections can only be processed at the Port of Spain, San Fernando, and Tobago licensing offices. Both parties must attend in person, each bringing two forms of identification, along with a completed Change of Ownership Form No. 11, the vehicle registration certificate, and valid insurance in the buyer’s name. A cover note is sufficient as evidence of insurance on the day of transfer.

Can I import a vehicle into Trinidad and Tobago, and how does the process work?

Privately importing a vehicle into Trinidad and Tobago is permitted, but it draws in several government agencies and requires attention to detail across each stage. You are legally required to engage a licensed Customs Broker to prepare and lodge the necessary customs paperwork on your behalf. The process falls under the oversight of the Customs and Excise Division of the Ministry of Finance, and an import licence from the Ministry of Trade and Industry must be secured before your vehicle reaches Trinidad and Tobago’s shores.

Trinidad and Tobago imposes no blanket ban on right-hand drive vehicles, and both left- and right-hand drive models are commonly seen on its roads. However, you should verify current import eligibility — including any applicable age limits or emissions standards — directly with the Customs and Excise Division and the Ministry of Trade before arranging shipping, as these requirements are subject to change by regulation. All imported vehicles must satisfy local roadworthiness standards before they can be registered and driven on public roads.

The step-by-step import process is as follows:

1. Obtain an import licence: Apply to the Ministry of Trade and Industry for an import licence before the vehicle is shipped. This is a mandatory prerequisite.
2. Arrange shipping: Use a registered shipping company to transport the vehicle to a port of entry in Trinidad and Tobago. You will receive a Bill of Lading from the shipping company, which serves as proof of ownership during the customs process.
3. Engage a licensed Customs Broker: You must hire a Customs Broker to fill out the Customs forms — C82 and/or C84. The services of a licensed Customs Broker/Clerk are required to provide guidance for the preparation of documents and the clearance of the cargo.
4. Present documents to Customs: Returning residents wishing to import their vehicles must submit proof of ownership (bill of sale, registration certificate, Certificate of Title, insurance certificate, or official certificate from country of origin) of the vehicle. A deregistration certificate from the exporting country’s relevant authority is also required.
5. Customs assessment: Customs duty is assessed on the fair market value of imported goods at the time they land in Trinidad and Tobago. Your broker will work with the Customs officer on the valuation.
6. Pay duties and taxes: The Customs cashier will call your name on the public address system and you join the line to effect payment of duties. When all duties and taxes have been paid, the cashier will give you the delivery receipt.
7. Take delivery and register: Once cleared, collect the vehicle and proceed to the Licensing Division of the MOWT to complete registration and obtain number plates.

A concession scheme is available for returning nationals. To be eligible, an applicant must have resided outside Trinidad and Tobago continuously for a minimum of five years immediately before returning. It is important to note that this scheme is specifically designed for nationals and former nationals of Trinidad and Tobago — it does not extend to foreign expats as a general rule. Foreign nationals relocating to the country should expect to pay the full schedule of applicable duties and taxes unless a separate waiver applies to their circumstances. Always confirm your eligibility with the Customs and Excise Division before making any assumptions.

What are the costs involved in importing a car to Trinidad and Tobago?

Bringing a vehicle into Trinidad and Tobago attracts a considerable tax burden that can add a significant sum to the vehicle’s base purchase price. Careful budgeting across every cost element is essential before committing to an import. The main costs to account for are:

For returning nationals — citizens of Trinidad and Tobago who have lived abroad for five or more continuous years — partial duty relief may be granted. If the registered owner has held the vehicle for more than six months but less than one year, the exemption amounts to 25% of the duty payable. Where ownership exceeds one year but falls short of two years, the exemption rises to 50%. Where the vehicle has been owned for more than two years, relief of 90% of the payable duty applies. However, this concession covers only Customs Import Duty and Motor Vehicle Tax — VAT remains payable in full regardless. Foreign expats who do not hold Trinidad and Tobago nationality should not assume eligibility for this scheme.

Unlike certain other countries — such as Australia or New Zealand — where designated personal import schemes permit duty-free importation of a vehicle after a defined period of ownership abroad, Trinidad and Tobago does not offer a blanket personal import exemption for foreign nationals. Always verify prevailing duty rates and eligibility conditions with the Customs and Excise Division or the Ministry of Finance before making a commitment to import.

How do I register a vehicle in Trinidad and Tobago?

Vehicle registration is a legal requirement that formally authorises a motor vehicle for use on Trinidad and Tobago’s public roads. Administration sits with the Licensing Division of the Ministry of Works and Transport, which handles first-time registration of new and foreign-used vehicles, changes to vehicle classification, and updates to ownership or registration records.

Registration applications require full vehicle particulars and a compliance inspection before plates are issued. For imported vehicles, this generally means producing your customs clearance documentation (including proof of duty payment), the Bill of Lading, evidence of ownership such as a foreign title or registration certificate, and your personal identification including passport and proof of a local address.

The registration process at the Licensing Division typically proceeds as follows:

1. Obtain and complete the registration form: Collect the appropriate form for your registration type, complete it carefully, and attend the Licensing Division with your form and all supporting documents.
2. Vehicle inspection: For imported and previously used vehicles, a Licensing Authority officer carries out a roadworthiness inspection to confirm the vehicle meets local safety requirements before a registration number is assigned.
3. Pay Motor Vehicle Tax and registration fee: In order to register as the legal owner of a motor vehicle, the owner or agent must present the required documents; on payment of Motor Vehicle Tax where applicable and the registration fee, a registration number is then issued.
4. Receive registration documents and number plates: After processing, you will be issued official registration documents and, where applicable, number plates.
5. Have plates made: The Licensing Authority is only responsible for issuing the registration number; it is the duty of the owner to get the licence plate made at a graphics shop.

When purchasing a brand-new vehicle through a dealership, the seller will often handle the initial registration as part of the transaction. For privately purchased used vehicles or self-imported vehicles, you will need to attend a Licensing Division office in person. Offices are located in Port of Spain, San Fernando, and Tobago. Further information and appointment booking options are available through the Ministry of Works and Transport (MOWT) website.

What insurance do I need to drive legally in Trinidad and Tobago?

Third-party motor insurance is a legal requirement for any vehicle driven on public roads in Trinidad and Tobago. This obligation is enshrined in the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, and evidence of valid cover must be produced at the point of vehicle transfer, at registration, and during roadside checks. Unlike jurisdictions that operate a government-run motor insurance scheme, Trinidad and Tobago’s market is served entirely by private insurers, giving drivers the ability to compare policies and premiums.

The legal minimum is third-party liability cover, which compensates other road users for personal injury and covers damage to third-party property. Comprehensive cover — extending protection to the policyholder’s own vehicle — is also widely available at a higher premium and is commonly chosen by owners given local road conditions and traffic volumes.

As an expat, bear in mind that not all local insurers will recognise a foreign no-claims discount (NCD) history. It is worth enquiring whether an insurer will accept documented proof of a claims-free record from your previous country of residence. Some may place you on a zero NCD basis at outset, which can considerably inflate your first-year premium. Obtain written confirmation of any NCD concession before finalising your policy.

To arrange cover, contact a licensed insurance broker or insurer directly. You will typically need to present your passport, evidence of a local address, your vehicle’s registration certificate (or relevant vehicle details), and your driving licence. The insurance sector in Trinidad and Tobago is regulated by the Central Bank of Trinidad and Tobago, which supervises all licensed insurance companies operating in the country. Concerns about an insurer’s conduct or financial standing should be directed to the Central Bank.

What driving licence do I need in Trinidad and Tobago as an expat?

Foreign nationals wishing to drive in Trinidad and Tobago must be at least 18 years of age and hold a valid driving licence from their home country. International Driving Permits (IDPs) are also accepted, provided they were issued in the driver’s country of origin. Foreign nationals must carry both their driving licence and their IDP at all times while driving in Trinidad and Tobago.

A foreign licence is valid for up to three months from the date of arrival. After this period, a locally issued licence becomes mandatory. This is an important point for expats intending to settle for the longer term: unlike some countries that permit indefinite use of a foreign licence or have reciprocal licence exchange arrangements, Trinidad and Tobago has no such agreements with any country. Regardless of how long you have been driving elsewhere, once the three-month window closes, you must obtain a local licence through the standard process.

The steps involved in obtaining a local driving licence are as follows:

1. Obtain a learner’s permit: To obtain a driving licence in Trinidad and Tobago, foreign nationals must first obtain a local learner’s permit. The process involves passing a written test and a vision test.
2. Complete driving lessons: Once a learner’s permit has been obtained, the applicant must complete a minimum of 15 hours of driving lessons with an approved driving instructor.
3. Pass a practical driving test: After completing the driving lessons, the applicant must pass a practical driving test conducted by a Licensing Officer. The driving test is conducted on the road and involves demonstrating the applicant’s ability to operate a vehicle safely in a variety of situations.
4. Apply for a full driving licence: Once the practical driving test has been passed, the applicant can apply for a full driving licence. The full licence is issued for a period of five years and must be renewed at the end of that period.

Driving licence services are administered by the Licensing Division of the Ministry of Works and Transport, which serves both local and visiting drivers. Forms, fee schedules, and appointment booking are accessible via the MOWT website. Costs for the learner’s permit, tests, and full licence vary and may change; always confirm current figures directly with the Licensing Division.

How do I sell a car in Trinidad and Tobago?

Disposing of a vehicle in Trinidad and Tobago requires a formal change of ownership to be recorded through the Licensing Division. It is not sufficient to simply hand over the keys — both seller and buyer must attend a Licensing Office together to have the transfer officially registered. Until this step is completed, the previous registered owner retains legal accountability for the vehicle, including responsibility for any fines, penalties, or other liabilities that may arise in the interim.

In preparation for the sale, the seller should ensure the vehicle’s annual road licence is up to date, that no outstanding fixed penalty notices are attached to the vehicle, and that the registration certificate is in order and readily available. Addressing any unresolved obligations before proceeding to transfer is advisable, as these can slow down or complicate the process.

At the Licensing Office, the following documents must be presented by both parties:

• Completed Change of Ownership Form No. 11 (available at Port of Spain, San Fernando, and Tobago Licensing offices)
• The vehicle registration certificate and valid insurance certificate
• Valid national ID card or passport for both the registered and new owner, a receipt of sale (where applicable), and the prescribed transfer tax and fee.

Transfer taxes are calculated by reference to the vehicle’s age since its first registration in Trinidad and Tobago — not the year of manufacture. For vehicles registered for more than 2 years but no more than 5 years, the transfer tax is TT$4,500. For those registered more than 5 years but no more than 7 years, it is TT$3,000. For vehicles registered more than 7 years but no more than 10 years, the figure is TT$1,350. For vehicles registered more than 10 years, the transfer tax is TT$150. The transfer fee itself is TT$10.00. Always confirm the current tax schedule with the MOWT Licensing Division before completing the transaction, as these figures may be revised.

Trinidad and Tobago does not currently impose a capital gains tax on the private sale of a motor vehicle, meaning profit from such a transaction is not ordinarily subject to income or capital gains tax. Tax law can change, however, and anyone selling a vehicle as part of a commercial activity should seek guidance from a local tax adviser or the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority (TTARA).

Are there any ongoing costs or obligations for vehicle ownership in Trinidad and Tobago?

Owning a vehicle in Trinidad and Tobago brings with it a number of recurring legal and financial responsibilities. Familiarising yourself with these obligations from the outset helps you avoid penalties and keeps your vehicle lawfully on the road.

Annual Vehicle Licence (Road Tax): Every registered vehicle must hold a current annual vehicle licence, commonly referred to as road tax. This must be renewed each year through the Licensing Division of the MOWT. Licence fees differ according to vehicle type and engine capacity. Operating a vehicle without a valid current licence constitutes an offence. Confirm prevailing fee schedules on the MOWT website.

Roadworthiness Inspection: Trinidad and Tobago requires vehicles to undergo periodic roadworthiness inspections conducted by the Licensing Authority. Once the vehicle has been certified as roadworthy, the relevant fees are paid. This inspection serves a broadly similar purpose to the annual MOT test in the United Kingdom or the NCT in Ireland — assessing key safety systems including brakes, lights, tyres, and steering. The frequency of inspections may vary by vehicle type and age; confirm the applicable schedule with the Licensing Division.

Insurance renewal: Third-party motor insurance must be kept continuously in force. Most policies are annual and must be renewed before expiry. Keep your insurance certificate accessible whenever you are driving, as it may be requested during roadside checks or in connection with any vehicle transfer.

Fixed Penalty Notices (Traffic Fines): Drivers who have not paid nor contested Fixed Penalty Notices may face administrative sanctions against their licence under the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic (Amendment) Act, 2017. Unresolved fines can also complicate vehicle transfers, making it good practice to deal with any notices without delay.

Vehicle licence plate obligations: All motor vehicles operating on the roads of Trinidad and Tobago are required by law to have a registration plate affixed to the front and rear of the vehicle at all times, except during very specific situations. Failure to display plates correctly is an offence.

Frequently asked questions

Can a foreign national own a vehicle in Trinidad and Tobago?

Yes. There is no restriction preventing a foreign national from owning a registered motor vehicle in Trinidad and Tobago. No person shall be registered as owner of a motor vehicle unless such person is at least 17 years of age. You will need valid identification, proof of a local address, and a Tax Identification Number (TIN) obtained from the Trinidad and Tobago Revenue Authority. Confirm any residency-specific requirements directly with the MOWT Licensing Division.

Are there any restrictions on the age of vehicles that can be imported?

Import rules regarding vehicle age are subject to regulatory amendment. As of 2024, there is no universally published blanket age ceiling covering all private imports, but older vehicles may attract closer scrutiny during the roadworthiness inspection. You should confirm current age and emissions requirements with the Customs and Excise Division and the Ministry of Trade and Industry before booking shipment.

Do I need a local address to register a vehicle?

Yes. A verifiable local address is a requirement for both vehicle registration and insurance. The Licensing Division and most insurers will ask for supporting documentation such as a utility bill or tenancy agreement as proof of address. This is consistent with registration requirements in most countries worldwide.

Is it cheaper to buy locally or import a vehicle?

For the majority of expats, purchasing locally is likely to be more straightforward and potentially more economical once all import costs are totalled — including shipping, import duty, the 12.5% VAT levied on the aggregate CIF value, Customs Broker fees, an import licence, and local registration charges. Importing tends to make financial sense chiefly if you require a specific vehicle not stocked locally, or if you are eligible for a duty concession as a returning national.

Can I drive in Trinidad and Tobago using my International Driving Permit indefinitely?

International Driving Permits (IDPs) are recognised in Trinidad and Tobago, provided they were issued in the driver’s country of origin, and foreign nationals must carry both their driving licence and IDP while driving. However, a foreign licence — whether accompanied by an IDP or not — is only valid for up to three months, after which a local licence must be obtained. An IDP does not extend this three-month validity period indefinitely.

What happens if I sell my imported vehicle within two years of bringing it in?

Where there is a transfer of ownership of the motor vehicle within two years of the date of its importation into Trinidad and Tobago, the taxes (Customs duty and Motor Vehicle Tax) payable had the relief not been granted shall become immediately payable by the returning national. This clawback provision applies specifically to those who imported under the returning national concession. If you imported the vehicle without a concession and settled the full duties, no additional clawback obligations arise on resale, though the standard transfer taxes will still apply.

Is there a government tool to estimate import duty on a vehicle?

The Customs and Excise Division makes a Duty Calculator available on its website at customs.gov.tt. This tool provides an estimate of duties payable on common imported goods. For an accurate assessment of your specific situation, engage a licensed Customs Broker and verify all figures directly with the Customs and Excise Division, as rates and valuations can vary.

What should I do if I leave Trinidad and Tobago permanently and want to take my vehicle with me?

If you plan to export your vehicle when departing Trinidad and Tobago for good, you will need to deregister it with the MOWT Licensing Division, obtain a deregistration certificate, cancel your insurance policy, and settle all outstanding road tax, fines, and fees before you leave. The export process may additionally require a clearance certificate from Customs. Consult the Customs and Excise Division and the MOWT for up-to-date procedures, as requirements may change over time.