RTA New Initiative to Address Lapsed Vehicle Registrations in Dubai

RTA New Initiative to Address Lapsed Vehicle Registrations in Dubai. Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is implementing a decisive policy: any vehicle with a registration lapsed for over two years will be officially removed from the RTA system. This new policy, developed in collaboration with Dubai Police and the Ministry of Interior, aims to ensure that all vehicles on Dubai’s roads are legally registered and in compliance with road safety standards.

It also reinforces the importance of regular vehicle registration for both the safety of drivers and the smooth operation of Dubai’s traffic system.

The New RTA Policy for Lapsed Vehicle Registrations

Ahmed Hashem Bahrozyan, CEO of the RTA Licensing Agency, explained the rationale behind this new measure. He noted that the federal law allows the scrapping of vehicles from the registration system after a lapse of one year. However, the RTA has opted for a lenient approach, giving vehicle owners an additional year to comply.

Thus, vehicles that remain unregistered for over two years will be removed from the system, as per the new guidelines. This decision strikes a balance between enforcement and leniency, offering a grace period that exceeds the standard.

Implications of Failing to Renew Vehicle Registration on Time

If a vehicle registration is removed from the system, the owner faces several requirements to reactivate it. They must:

• Visit the RTA in person to re-register the vehicle.
• Pay all outstanding fees, fines, and charges accumulated during the unregistered period.

Bahrozyan highlighted the importance of timely registration to avoid this inconvenience, noting that it is easier and more economical to renew registrations on time rather than going through the entire re-registration process.

Proposed Increase in Fines for Delayed Registration

Currently, the fine for lapsed registration stands at AED 10 per month. However, the RTA has proposed to the Ministry of Interior a considerable increase, with the potential new fine being AED 150. This substantial increase is under consideration as a means to deter drivers from delaying their vehicle registrations.

Bahrozyan emphasized that drivers could avoid hefty penalties and the hassle of re-registration by keeping their vehicle registrations up-to-date.

Flexible Payment Plans for Accumulated Fines

For drivers facing large accumulated fines, the RTA provides options for installment-based payments, making it easier to settle dues and renew registrations without bearing a heavy financial burden all at once. This flexibility aims to encourage compliance and ease the financial load on drivers with high accumulated penalties.

Convenient Channels for Vehicle Registration Renewal

The RTA has introduced a variety of channels to make vehicle registration and license renewal more accessible and convenient for residents. These include:

• Online Services: A fully digital renewal process is available through the RTA website and mobile application, enabling motorists to complete registrations from the comfort of their homes.
• Trusted Agent Services: Collaborations with insurance companies enable residents to renew their vehicle registration alongside their insurance policy updates.
• Call Center Services: The RTA dedicated call center provides registration renewal services, making it convenient for those who prefer telephonic assistance.
• Customer Care Centers: Physical centers across Dubai offer in-person services for vehicle registration and renewal.
• Bulk Transaction Services: Recently introduced, this service allows companies and individuals managing large fleets to renew multiple registrations in a single transaction, making the process more efficient for fleet operators.

Importance of Regular Vehicle Registration in Dubai

Unregistered vehicles pose several risks, including the lack of valid insurance and the potential to compromise road safety. By enforcing registration laws, the RTA is working to ensure that all vehicles on Dubai’s roads meet regulatory standards, which benefits both individual drivers and the broader community.

The campaign also raises awareness about the impact of neglected registration on public safety, vehicle reliability, and the prevention of potential legal complications.

Maximizing Safety and Compliance Through Collaborative Efforts

This policy is part of Dubai’s wider strategy to uphold road safety standards and enforce compliance through both the RTA and Dubai Police. The collaboration between these agencies demonstrates a shared commitment to public safety and the goal of ensuring that all vehicles on Dubai’s roads are legally registered, insured, and meet necessary safety standards.

Conclusion

Dubai RTA new vehicle registration policy is a critical step toward enhancing road safety and encouraging compliance. With an extended grace period, various convenient renewal channels, and flexible payment options, the RTA offers Dubai residents every opportunity to maintain legal vehicle registrations and avoid penalties.

The proposed increase in fines underscores the importance of compliance, while flexible payment plans reflect an understanding of the financial realities facing some drivers.