Digital slow lane Just 14 per cent of motorists embrace online vehicle registration

One year after Tax Administration Jamaica (TAJ) introduced its electronic Motor Vehicle Registration Certificate (eMVRC), only 14 per cent of motorists have opted to renew their vehicle registration online.

TAJ said that as of July 20, a total of 107,744 motorists had used the digital service, which allows eligible private motor vehicle owners to complete renewals online and instantly receive an electronic certificate.

The figure represents a small fraction of motorists eligible to use the platform, with the vast majority still relying on traditional in-person transactions at tax offices.

The eMVRC was launched on July 21, 2025, replacing the paper motor vehicle registration certificate and removing the need for the physical registration decal, or sticker.

However, despite the convenience of the service, adoption has remained limited during its first year.

TAJ did not provide reasons why a large majority of eligible motorists have not migrated to the online platform.

The service is currently available only to private motor vehicle owners renewing their registration. Owners of public passenger vehicles, commercial vehicles, diplomatic vehicles and newly registered vehicles must still complete their transactions at a Tax Office. First-time applicants are also required to visit tax offices.