The Transport Control Department (TCD) is reminding individuals and businesses that approval from TCD must be obtained before ordering, purchasing, or arranging the shipment of any motor vehicle to Bermuda. Prospective importers are urged to submit the vehicle’s specifications to TCD for assessment before making any financial commitments, as not all vehicles are eligible for importation and registration in Bermuda.
Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, MP, said: “It is important that anyone considering importing a vehicle into Bermuda understands the requirements before making a purchase or arranging shipment. We want to ensure that prospective importers have the necessary information and seek approval from TCD before committing significant sums of money. Taking this precaution can help prevent unnecessary financial loss and avoid the disappointment of purchasing a vehicle that cannot be approved for use on our roads.”
Under the Motor Car Act 1951 and its associated regulations, vehicles must satisfy the applicable legislative requirements, including those relating to vehicle classification, dimensions, specifications, and other statutory criteria. These requirements determine whether a vehicle may be imported and registered for use on Bermuda’s roads.
TCD further cautions that purchasing, ordering, or shipping a vehicle before receiving TCD approval is undertaken entirely at the importer’s own risk. Payment for a vehicle, the arrangement of shipping, or the vehicle’s arrival in Bermuda does not guarantee that permission will be granted for its importation or registration.
Individuals and businesses considering importing a vehicle can apply by visiting https://forms.gov.bm/Departments/TCD/Importation-and-Replacement-Application.
