The Liberia Vehicle Registration system is undergoing a major shift, as the administration of vehicle registration and driver licensing moves from the Ministry of Transport to the Ministry of Justice. Effective February 3, 2025, the Liberia Traffic Management Incorporated (LTMI) will exclusively handle all registration and licensing processes. This transition aligns with Liberia’s Vehicle and Traffic Law, reinforcing legal authority and improving administrative efficiency.

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Legal Basis for the Transition

Historically, the Ministry of Transport oversaw Liberia Vehicle Registration and licensing. However, Liberia’s Vehicle and Traffic Law designates the Ministry of Justice as the chief authority. Sections 1.1(d) and 11 of the law confirm that the Ministry of Justice is responsible for enforcing these regulations. Additionally, Chapter 22.2(i) of the Executive Law further mandates the Ministry of Justice to administer the nation’s vehicle policies.

In 2018, Liberia’s government signed a concession agreement with LTMI, granting it exclusive rights to finance, design, and manage the country’s vehicle registration, licensing, and traffic enforcement systems. The concession included initiatives like a Traffic Ticket Management System, Vehicle Inspection, and a Driver Testing and Certification Program.

Legal Dispute with MDMC

Despite the LTMI concession, in 2020, the Ministry of Transport entered a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with Modern Development Management Corporation (MDMC) to introduce a competing vehicle registration and licensing system. LTMI contested this as a breach of its exclusive rights and initiated legal action against the government and MDMC.

After prolonged disputes, Liberia’s Supreme Court reviewed the case. Following President Boakai’s inauguration, the Minister of Justice analyzed the situation and concluded that the PPP agreement with MDMC conflicted with the existing LTMI concession. The government subsequently revoked MDMC’s agreement, reaffirming LTMI’s role in managing Liberia Vehicle Registration.

Implementation from February 3

To ensure a smooth transition, the government has issued the following guidelines:

Key Changes for Vehicle Owners

  • Effective Date: From February 3, 2025, LTMI will exclusively manage vehicle registrations and driver licenses.

  • Renewals: All expiring licenses and registrations must be renewed through LTMI.

  • New Registrations: First-time applicants must process documents via LTMI.

  • Validity of Previous Registrations: Existing licenses and registrations issued before February 3 remain valid, but any documents obtained from non-LTMI sources after this date will be void.

Future Impact on Vehicle Administration

Liberia faces challenges in tracking accurate vehicle data. As of 2015, approximately 63,000 registered vehicles existed, though estimates suggest a much higher count. By consolidating Liberia Vehicle Registration under LTMI, the government aims to improve data accuracy, streamline enforcement, and enhance road safety.

With this reform, Liberia seeks a more efficient and legally compliant vehicle administration system. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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