CLP announces free drivers license renewal, rego fees frozen, and new light trailer registry scheme

‘Real relief’ is coming for Territorians suffering during the cost of living crisis – and it’s centred around MVR fees, with some costs set to be waived. Find out what it is.

Treasurer Bill Yan. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

The CLP government says “real relief” is coming for Territorians suffering from the cost-of-living crisis, with free driver’s licence renewals coming, and registration fees for some vehicles frozen at their current rates.

On Monday, the first step in a suite of initiatives by the CLP government begins in a move set to shake up Motor Vehicle Registry fees.

Step one will see rego fees for around 155,000 cars, motorcycles and trailers frozen at their current rates as of November 11.

Step two begins December 1, when Territorians will be able register light trailers (less than 750kgs) for a period of up to three years. No cost was given on what the three year trailer fee would be.

Smith and Knuckey St in Darwin. Picture: Glenn Campbell

Lastly, step three will see Territorians able to renew their licence for free for a year starting January 1 next year.

Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan said the moves would help ease cost-of-living pressures for Territorians – as well as deliver on an election promise.

“Territorians gave us a mandate to reduce crime, rebuild the economy and restore our Territory lifestyle and that is exactly what we are doing,” he said.

“We know every dollar counts. The previous Labor government increased registration fees by over $100 during their time and these changes will deliver real relief to Territorians who are now left struggling with grocery bills, childcare, power costs and other cost of living pressures left by the Labor government.

“Territorians have suffered enough and it’s now time to get back to enjoying our iconic Territory lifestyle.”

Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

In the 2024 budget, the Labor government’s cost-of-living measures included: $55.2m to keep power bills below inflation; $8.2m to continue Back to School Vouchers; $8.4m to continue the prepaid seniors cards, with an increase from $500 to $550; and $3m to continue the home and business battery scheme.

Residents will still be able to register their trailer for short periods if preferred under the new scheme.

Territorians needing to renew their licence on or before June 30, 2025, will get a discounted fee or one year free.

The updated pricing scheme is:

• 1 year – no fee (previously $38)

• 2 years – $28 (previously $58)

• 5 years – $92 (previously $115)

• 10 years – $178 (previously $198).

Licence renewals will be able to be completed online, however, those requiring a new licence photo will have to go into the MVR to do so.

One-year free licence renewals are only available before June 30, 2025.

Originally published as CLP announces free drivers license renewal, rego fees frozen, and new light trailer registry scheme