Whether you are purchasing a brand new car, importing a used vehicle from Japan, or buying a second-hand vehicle locally, you must register and license it with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Licence Revenue Office (LRO) before it can legally operate on Guyanese roads. This comprehensive guide covers every step of the registration and licensing process, including required documents, fees, vehicle fitness inspections, licence plate types, transfer of ownership, mandatory insurance, and much more.
In This Guide
- Overview: Vehicle Registration in Guyana
- New Vehicle Registration Process
- Documents for Imported Vehicles
- Documents for Locally Purchased Vehicles
- Vehicle Fitness Inspection
- Annual Vehicle Licence Renewal
- Licence Plate Types
- Transfer of Ownership
- Motor Vehicle Insurance
- Registration & Licensing Fees
- Motorcycle Registration
- Commercial Vehicle Licensing
- Prohibited & Restricted Vehicles
- GRA Licence Revenue Office Locations
- Frequently Asked Questions
Official Forms & Downloads
- Motor Vehicle Transfer Registration Form (PDF) Printable form for transferring vehicle ownership — open with Adobe Acrobat Reader on a computer
- GRA Vehicle Forms Page All vehicle registration, transfer, and change of details forms (PDF format)
- GRA eServices Portal File returns, view tax statements, schedule payments, and send secure messages online
- Required Documents List Official GRA list of documents needed for registration, transfer, and change of details
- Motor Vehicle Fee Schedule Official registration, licensing, and fitness inspection fees
Official GRA Links & Resources
Vehicle Registration
Fees & Forms
Related Guides
Overview: Vehicle Registration in Guyana
All motor vehicles operating on public roads in Guyana must be registered and licensed with the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA). The Licence Revenue Office (LRO) is the division within the GRA responsible for motor vehicle registration, licensing, transfer of ownership, and related services. All fees are governed by the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02.
There are two main scenarios for vehicle registration in Guyana:
- Imported vehicles: Vehicles brought into Guyana from abroad must first clear customs (paying all applicable duties and taxes) before they can be registered at the LRO.
- Locally purchased vehicles: Vehicles purchased within Guyana from a dealer or private seller require a transfer of ownership (if previously registered) or a new registration (if never before registered in Guyana).
TIN Required
A valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) is required for all motor vehicle registration and licensing transactions. If you do not have a TIN, you must obtain one from the GRA before applying. See our TIN Registration Guide for details.
New Vehicle Registration Process
For Imported Vehicles
If you are registering a vehicle that has been imported into Guyana, follow these steps:
Complete Customs Clearance
Before registration can begin, your vehicle must clear customs at the GRA. This confirms that all import duties and taxes have been paid. The customs declaration is processed through the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA World). You will receive customs release documents upon clearance.
Gather All Required Documents
Collect your customs release documents, Bill of Lading, commercial invoice, export certificate or cancellation of foreign registration, proof of duty payment, valid identification, TIN, and a valid motor vehicle insurance certificate. See the full document list below.
Visit the Licence Revenue Office
Present your documents and completed application form to a Licence Revenue Officer at the LRO (Princess & Smyth Streets or Camp Street, Georgetown). The officer will review all documents and issue a lodgment slip directing you to the Motor Vehicle Examination Unit.
Vehicle Physical Examination
Bring the vehicle to the Motor Vehicle Examination Unit. A Licence Revenue Officer and a Customs Officer will conduct a physical examination to verify the engine number, chassis number, vehicle colour, make, model, and other details against your application form and supporting documents.
Document Verification & System Update
Once both officers are satisfied with the examination, an examination form is completed. All submitted documents and the examination form are verified. Once confirmed, the GRA system is updated with the vehicle details and a new registration is processed.
Pay Registration & Licensing Fees
Pay the annual motor vehicle licence fee (weight-based, starting at GYD $2,500 for private vehicles) and any additional applicable fees at the GRA cashier. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.
Receive Registration Certificate & Plates
Collect your original Certificate of Registration and licence plates from the Licence Revenue Office. The registration certificate must be kept with the vehicle at all times. Your vehicle is now legally registered to operate on Guyanese roads.
For Locally Purchased Vehicles (New from Dealer)
If you are purchasing a brand new vehicle from an authorised local dealer, the process is similar but the dealer may assist with customs clearance. You will still need to visit the LRO with the following:
- Purchase invoice from the dealer
- Customs assessment notice (if the dealer has not already handled clearance)
- Valid identification and TIN
- Valid motor vehicle insurance certificate
Inspection Certificate for Used Imports
Effective February 1, 2025, an inspection certificate from an authorised inspection agency (such as AutoTerminal Japan Ltd) is required for all used motor vehicle imports (excluding brand new vehicles). This certificate must be uploaded along with all other documents in ASYCUDA to process the customs declaration. Failure to include it may result in your declaration not being processed or the vehicle not being released.
Required Documents: Imported Vehicles
When registering a motor vehicle that has been imported into Guyana, you must present the following documents to the Licence Revenue Office:
Imported Vehicle Registration Documents
Required Documents: Locally Purchased Vehicles
If you are purchasing a vehicle that is already registered in Guyana (second-hand), the transaction is handled as a transfer of ownership. If the vehicle was never registered in Guyana (e.g., purchased from a dealer's bonded warehouse), you will follow the imported vehicle process above.
Local Purchase / Transfer Documents
Locally Purchased Vehicles
If the vehicle was purchased locally (within Guyana), the Assessment Notice, foreign export certificate, and foreign translation documents are not required. These documents only apply to imported vehicles.
Both Parties Must Be Present
For a transfer of ownership, both the seller and buyer of the motor vehicle must be present at the Licence Revenue Office. Both parties are required to sign the transfer form in the presence of an LRO officer. Without both parties present, the transfer cannot be processed.
Vehicle Fitness Inspection
A vehicle fitness certificate (also called a certificate of fitness) confirms that a motor vehicle meets the minimum safety and roadworthiness standards required by Guyanese law. The fitness inspection is conducted by authorised examiners at designated inspection stations.
What is Checked During a Fitness Inspection
Fitness Inspection Checklist
Fitness Certificate Display Requirements
Who Must Display a Fitness Certificate?
Under the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, the certificate of fitness must be carried and displayed in a conspicuous position on every motor vehicle except private motor cars and motorcycles. Hire cars, buses, minibuses, lorries, and other commercial vehicles are all required to visibly display their fitness certificate. Private car owners are still encouraged to maintain their vehicles in roadworthy condition, but are not legally required to display the certificate.
Annual Vehicle Licence Renewal
Motor vehicle licences in Guyana are valid for one year and must be renewed annually. The annual licence fee is weight-based and set by the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, collected by the Licence Revenue Office.
Renewal Requirements
- Valid insurance certificate: Your motor vehicle insurance must be current at the time of renewal.
- Fitness certificate (where applicable): Hire cars, buses, minibuses, and commercial vehicles must present a valid fitness certificate.
- Previous licence receipt: Bring your previous year's licence receipt or registration details.
- Outstanding fees cleared: Any outstanding licence fees or penalties from previous years must be paid before renewal.
- TIN: Your valid Taxpayer Identification Number.
Late Renewal Penalties
Operating a motor vehicle with an expired licence is an offence under Guyanese law. You may face fines and your vehicle may be impounded if stopped by police with an expired licence. Renew your vehicle licence before the expiry date to avoid penalties and disruptions.
Licence Plate Types
Guyana uses several categories of licence plates (identification marks) to classify motor vehicles based on their intended use. The plate format consists of white lettering on a black plate, with 2-3 letters followed by up to 4 numbers (e.g., PAL 1234). The first letter indicates the vehicle classification:
| Plate Prefix | Vehicle Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| P | Private | Motor cars and vehicles used for private purposes, not for trade, business, or hire. Most common plate type. |
| H | Hire | Vehicles used for hire and reward, including taxis and rental vehicles. Hire cars must be painted Corporate Yellow. |
| G | Goods | Vehicles used for transporting goods for trade or business purposes, including lorries, vans, and trucks. |
| B | Bus | Buses and minibuses used for transporting passengers for hire. |
| C | Government/State | Government and state-owned vehicles used for official purposes. |
| T | Tractor/Agricultural | Tractors, agricultural vehicles, and other special-purpose vehicles. |
| DPL / DC | Diplomatic | Diplomatic vehicles. Black lettering on a yellow plate (different from standard plates). |
Current Registration Series
As of 2025-2026, the current series for private vehicles is PAL. The second and third letters in the plate number indicate the registration series (time period when the vehicle was registered). Each additional plate costs GYD $20,000, with a maximum of four plates per vehicle.
Plate Specifications
Under the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, licence plates must meet the following requirements:
- Letters and figures must be indelibly inscribed in white on a black surface (standard plates)
- All letters and figures must be 3.5 inches high
- Every part of each letter and figure must be 5/8 inch broad
- The total width of each letter or figure must be 2.5 inches
- No letter or figure shall be capable of being detached from the plate surface
- Diplomatic plates use black lettering on a yellow plate
- Dealer plates use red lettering on a white plate
Transfer of Ownership
When a registered motor vehicle is sold or gifted to another person, the ownership must be formally transferred at the Licence Revenue Office. This is a legal requirement and protects both the seller and buyer.
Transfer Process
Both Parties Visit the LRO Together
The seller and buyer must both be present at the Licence Revenue Office. This is mandatory and the transfer cannot be completed without both parties.
Complete the Transfer Form
Both parties complete the Application for Transfer of Ownership of Motor Vehicle form. The seller completes the top half (seller's details) and the buyer completes the bottom half (buyer's details). Both must sign in the presence of the LRO officer.
Submit Supporting Documents
Present the Agreement of Sale or Bill of Sale, both parties' valid IDs and TINs, the original registration certificate, and the buyer's new insurance certificate.
Pay the Transfer Fee
Pay the transfer of ownership fee at the GRA cashier. For cars and minibuses, the fee is GYD $25,000 or 2% of the selling price, whichever is greater, for vehicles valued above GYD $1,250,000. Motorcycle transfers cost GYD $5,000.
Receive New Registration Certificate
A new Certificate of Registration is issued in the buyer's name. The licence plates typically remain with the vehicle unless a change of vehicle type/use is requested.
Changing Vehicle Intended Use
If you wish to change the classification of your vehicle (for example, from Private to Hire, or from Private to Goods), you must apply to the Licence Revenue Office. The difference in the annual licensing fee between the old and new classification will be calculated, and you will be required to pay the balance. Hire cars must be repainted to the mandatory Corporate Yellow colour before the change is approved.
Motor Vehicle Insurance Requirements
Under the Motor Vehicles Insurance (Third-Party Risks) Act, Chapter 51:03, third-party motor vehicle insurance is mandatory for all vehicles operating on public roads in Guyana. You cannot register, license, or legally operate a motor vehicle without valid insurance.
Types of Motor Vehicle Insurance
Insurance Options in Guyana
Penalties for Driving Without Insurance
It is unlawful to use, or to cause or permit any other person to use, a motor vehicle on a road without a valid insurance policy. Persons found in violation are liable on summary conviction to a fine of not less than GYD $15,000 and not more than GYD $30,000. Your vehicle may also be impounded.
Major Insurance Providers in Guyana
- Guyana and Trinidad Mutual Fire Insurance Company (GTM)
- Demerara Mutual Life Assurance Society
- Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire & Life Insurance
- Citizens Bank Insurance Agency
- National Insurance Scheme (NIS) - Motor Vehicle policies
- GBTI Insurance Inc.
Insurance Tip
When purchasing insurance, have the following ready: vehicle registration details (make, model, year, engine/chassis numbers), your valid driver's licence, and your intended use for the vehicle (private, hire, goods). Compare quotes from multiple insurers as premiums can vary significantly.
Registration & Licensing Fees
All motor vehicle registration and licensing fees are governed by the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02 (as amended). The fee schedule below reflects the rates effective since October 1, 2020:
Annual Motor Vehicle Licence Fees (Private Vehicles — Weight-Based)
| Vehicle Weight Category | Fee (GYD) | Fee (USD approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Not exceeding 2,240 lbs | $2,500 | ~$12 | Lightest private vehicles |
| 2,240 – 3,000 lbs | $3,125 | ~$15 | Small to mid-size cars |
| 3,000 – 4,000 lbs | $5,000 | ~$24 | Mid-size cars and small SUVs |
| 4,000 – 5,000 lbs | $7,500 | ~$36 | Larger SUVs and trucks |
| Exceeding 5,000 lbs | $12,500 | ~$60 | Heavy vehicles |
Other Licence & Plate Fees
| Service / Item | Fee (GYD) | Fee (USD approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Additional Licence Plate | $20,000 | ~$95 | Per plate, max 4 plates |
| Hire Car Licence (Corporate Yellow) | Free | Free | No additional fee for hire classification |
Transfer & Other Fees
| Service | Fee (GYD) | Fee (USD approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transfer of Ownership (Cars, Minibuses, etc.) | $25,000 or 2% of selling price | ~$120+ | Whichever is greater; 2% applies for vehicles valued over GYD $1,250,000 |
| Transfer of Ownership (Motorcycles) | $5,000 | ~$24 | Flat fee for all motorcycle transfers |
| Change of Vehicle Details | Varies | Varies | Change of colour, engine, etc. Contact LRO for specific fees |
| Dealer's General Licence | Contact LRO | Varies | Annual fee for motor vehicle dealers; contact LRO for current rate |
Payment Methods
Fees are payable in Guyanese Dollars (GYD) at any GRA cashier. The GRA also accepts electronic payments through their eServices platform for certain transactions. Always obtain and keep your receipt as proof of payment.
Import Duties Are Separate
The fees listed above are for registration and licensing only. If you are importing a vehicle, you will also need to pay customs duties and taxes calculated based on the vehicle's engine size, year of manufacture, and CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value. For details on import duty calculation, visit the GRA Motor Vehicle Duty/Tax Calculation Guide.
Estimate Import Costs with GRA Padna
The GRA's Padna mobile app (launched January 28, 2025) includes a vehicle import tax calculator that lets you estimate customs duties and taxes before purchasing a vehicle. This is useful for budgeting the total cost of importing a car into Guyana. Padna is available for free on both iOS and Android devices.
Re-Migrant Import Duty Rates (Effective February 1, 2026)
As announced in Budget 2026, returning Guyanese nationals (re-migrants) benefit from reduced import duty rates on personal motor vehicles effective February 1, 2026:
- Vehicles under 1800cc: 5% of CIF (Cost, Insurance, Freight) value
- Vehicles above 1800cc: 10% of CIF value
These reduced rates apply to re-migrants importing one personal-use vehicle. Standard eligibility criteria and documentation requirements for re-migrant concessions still apply. Contact the GRA for full details on qualifying.
Budget 2026 VAT & Duty Exemptions
The following items have been granted VAT and import duty exemptions under Budget 2026, effective 2026:
- Security cameras — exempted from VAT and import duty
- Alarm systems — exempted from VAT and import duty
- Double-cab pickups — exempted from VAT and import duty
- ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) — exempted from VAT and import duty
- Outboard engines — exempted from VAT and import duty
- New vehicles under 1500cc — VAT removed on new cars less than 4 years old with engine capacity below 1500cc (effective February 16, 2026)
- New hybrid vehicles under 2000cc — VAT removed on new hybrid vehicles with engine capacity below 2000cc (effective February 16, 2026)
- New electric vehicles — VAT exemption continued from 2023 measures
These exemptions are particularly relevant for vehicle owners, farmers, and businesses in hinterland and riverine communities. The VAT removal on small, hybrid, and electric vehicles significantly reduces import costs for fuel-efficient cars.
Motorcycle Registration
Motorcycles follow the same general registration process as other motor vehicles, with a few specific differences:
Motorcycle-Specific Requirements
Commercial Vehicle Licensing
Commercial vehicles - including lorries, trucks, minibuses, buses, and goods-carrying vehicles - follow the standard registration process but have additional requirements and considerations:
Goods Vehicles (G Plates)
- Must be registered with the G identification mark for goods-carrying purposes
- The annual licence fee applies (weight-based; see fee table above)
- A valid fitness certificate must be obtained and displayed on the vehicle
- The vehicle must be clearly marked with the owner's name and address
- Heavy-duty trucks and lorries are exempt from commercial vehicle age restrictions
Hire Cars (H Plates) and Buses (B Plates)
- Hire cars (taxis) must be painted Corporate Yellow and carry the H identification mark
- The licence fee for Hire Cars in Corporate Yellow is free
- A detailed vehicle examination is conducted for hire cars to ensure compliance with colour and safety requirements
- Buses and minibuses carry the B identification mark
- Both hire cars and buses must display a valid fitness certificate at all times
- Drivers of hire vehicles must hold the appropriate class of driver's licence
Changing from Private to Commercial
If you wish to convert a private vehicle (P plates) to commercial use (G, H, or B plates), apply at the Licence Revenue Office. The difference in the annual licensing fee will be calculated and charged. For hire cars, the vehicle must be repainted to Corporate Yellow before the reclassification is approved.
Prohibited & Restricted Vehicles
Guyana has several restrictions on the types of motor vehicles that can be imported and registered:
Import Restrictions
Importation vs. Registration
Vehicle importation (customs clearance, duty payment) and vehicle registration (obtaining plates and a licence) are two separate processes handled by different divisions of the GRA. You must complete importation first before you can register. For detailed information on importing a vehicle including duty calculations, see the GRA Motor Vehicle Duty/Tax Calculation Guide.
GRA Licence Revenue Office Locations
Main Licence Revenue Office - Georgetown
Licence Revenue Office (LRO) - Main
GRA Headquarters
Regional Licensing & Certifying Offices
Agricultural vehicles and certain other vehicle types can also be registered at regional offices:
New Amsterdam Office
Corriverton Office
Linden Office
Suddie Office
Need a Driver's Licence Too?
If you're registering a vehicle, you'll also need a valid Guyana driver's licence. Check out our complete guide to the application process, required documents, and fees.
Driver's Licence GuideFrequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to register a vehicle in Guyana?
The annual motor vehicle licence fee is weight-based for private vehicles: GYD $2,500 (not exceeding 2,240 lbs), $3,125 (2,240–3,000 lbs), $5,000 (3,000–4,000 lbs), $7,500 (4,000–5,000 lbs), or $12,500 (exceeding 5,000 lbs). Additional licence plates cost GYD $20,000 each (maximum of four). If you are importing a vehicle, customs duties and taxes are paid separately and vary based on the vehicle's engine size, age, and CIF value.
What documents do I need to register an imported vehicle?
You need: the Bill of Lading, commercial/purchase invoice, customs release documents, export certificate or cancellation of foreign registration (with official translation if not in English), pre-shipment inspection certificate (for used vehicles), valid identification, TIN, and a valid insurance certificate. See the full list in the imported vehicle documents section above.
Is vehicle insurance mandatory in Guyana?
Yes. Under the Motor Vehicles Insurance (Third-Party Risks) Act (Cap. 51:03), third-party insurance is mandatory for all motor vehicles operating on public roads. Driving without insurance is an offence punishable by a fine of GYD $15,000 to $30,000, and your vehicle may be impounded.
Can I import a left-hand drive vehicle into Guyana?
Yes, left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles are legal in Guyana, even though the country drives on the left side of the road. Many Guyanese import LHD vehicles from the United States and Canada. However, right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles are standard and generally preferred for easier driving in local traffic.
What is the maximum age for importing a vehicle into Guyana?
There is no maximum age restriction for importing passenger vehicles into Guyana. The previous 8-year age limit was removed in October 2020. You can import a 10, 15, or even 20-year-old passenger vehicle. However, small trucks (up to 3 tons) must be under 4 years old, and heavy-duty vehicles have separate regulations.
How do I transfer ownership of a vehicle?
Both the seller and buyer must visit the Licence Revenue Office together. Both complete the Application for Transfer of Ownership form, present valid IDs and TINs, the original registration certificate, and the agreement of sale. The transfer fee is GYD $25,000 or 2% of the selling price (whichever is greater) for vehicles valued over GYD $1,250,000. Motorcycle transfers cost GYD $5,000.
Do I need a TIN to register a vehicle?
Yes. A valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) from the Guyana Revenue Authority is required for all motor vehicle registration, licensing, and transfer transactions. If you do not have a TIN, you must obtain one first. See our TIN Registration Guide for the application process.
How often do I need to renew my vehicle licence?
Motor vehicle licences must be renewed annually. You will need a valid insurance certificate, fitness certificate (for applicable vehicle types such as hire cars, buses, and commercial vehicles), and your TIN. Operating with an expired licence is an offence and may result in fines or vehicle impoundment.
What types of licence plates are used in Guyana?
Guyana uses several plate types: P (Private), H (Hire/Taxi), G (Goods/Commercial), B (Bus), C (Government/State), T (Tractor/Agricultural), and Diplomatic (DPL/DC). Standard plates have white lettering on a black background. Diplomatic plates have black lettering on yellow. The format is 2-3 letters followed by up to 4 numbers.
Can I convert my private vehicle to a hire car (taxi)?
Yes. Apply at the Licence Revenue Office to change the intended use of your vehicle. The vehicle must be repainted to the mandatory Corporate Yellow colour for hire cars, and you will pay the difference in the annual licensing fee (though the hire car licence itself is free). A detailed examination will be conducted to confirm compliance with hire car requirements.
What are the re-migrant import duty rates for vehicles?
Effective February 1, 2026 under Budget 2026, returning Guyanese nationals (re-migrants) benefit from reduced import duty rates on personal vehicles: 5% of CIF value for vehicles under 1800cc, and 10% of CIF value for vehicles above 1800cc. Standard re-migrant eligibility criteria and documentation requirements apply. Contact the GRA for full details.
Are double-cab pickups and ATVs duty-free in Guyana?
Yes. Under Budget 2026, double-cab pickups and ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) have been granted VAT and import duty exemptions, making them significantly more affordable to import. Other newly exempted items include security cameras, alarm systems, and outboard engines.
Last updated: April 3, 2026. Vehicle registration requirements, fees, and processes may change. Always verify current requirements with the Guyana Revenue Authority - Motor Vehicle Division before applying. For general government services information, see our Government Services hub.