IETA sets new 2026 confirmation rules for bus, Taxi, and Transport Companies

GREAT BAY--The Inspectorate of Economic and Transport Affairs (IETA) has launched its 2026 Passenger Transport Confirmation Letter process, introducing a revised application system aimed at improving how information is collected, reviewed, and processed.

This year, IETA is using two separate application forms. One form is for individual bus and taxi permit holders. The other is for legal entities that hold permits for bus companies, touring cars, unregulated transport, and car rental services. IETA said the updated structure centralizes data collection and document uploads to improve processing efficiency and reduce administrative bottlenecks when issuing confirmation letters.

Among the key changes for 2026 is a mandatory requirement for applicants, both individuals and companies, to submit a CRIB number. Applicants must also submit their 2026 road tax payment receipt in order to obtain a confirmation letter prior to issuance. IETA also adjusted how the Transport Control Unit works with legal entities as part of efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight and improve operational efficiency.

For legal entities holding passenger transport permits, IETA requires that documentation for all vehicles registered under a company’s permits be submitted through one consolidated application. This applies to bus companies, touring cars (T plates), unregulated transport (G plates), and car rental operations. Companies are expected to ensure that operating arrangements, including driver employment relationships and vehicle assignments, comply with the Landsverordening personenvervoer.

IETA said the consolidated approach supports full oversight of company fleet operations while reducing fragmented submissions. Permit holders, or their authorized representatives, are required to submit complete documentation covering every vehicle operating under their permit authority.

Under the 2026 process, individual bus and taxi permit holders must provide their personal and contact information, CRIB number, and permit details, along with copies of their 2026 road tax receipt, valid transport permit, St. Maarten driver’s license, and national ID. Where an assistant driver is used, the assistant’s personal and permit details must also be included, together with a signed declaration letter from the permit holder confirming the working relationship for 2026. Applicants are additionally required to upload vehicle photographs and select an appointment for inspection.

Legal entity permit holders must submit permit details, Chamber of Commerce registration, and tax administration data, as well as fleet information using a consolidated spreadsheet. Supporting documents must include copies of all 2026 road tax receipts, motor vehicle inspection cards, and valid insurance policies. IETA reminded passenger transport companies that separate applications must not be submitted for individual vehicle plates under the same category attached to the same permit. Instead, all vehicles within the same plate category must be included in one consolidated application per company.

IETA also reiterated vehicle safety and condition requirements. All passenger transport vehicles must have a functional fire extinguisher and a first-aid kit suitable for minor injuries. Vehicles suspected of having significant defects, including broken brake lights, damaged windshields, or faulty horns, may be referred to the Motor Vehicle Inspection Center for reinspection, even when a valid inspection card is presented.

The confirmation letter serves as formal validation of compliance for 2026, including permit status, vehicle requirements, and road tax obligations for passenger transport operations.

IETA warned that permit holders who do not complete the process by the submission deadline of Friday, February 27, 2026, may experience operational delays or may be classified as inactive in the transport registry. After the deadline, the Transport Control Unit cannot guarantee availability for operators attempting to complete the process specifically for plate collection. IETA is therefore advising permit holders to submit early to avoid service disruptions and last-minute constraints.

Application categories:

• Individual Bus & Taxi: Individual Bus and Taxi Application
• Passenger Transport Companies: Passenger Transport Company Application

For questions or assistance, transport operators can contact the Transport Control Unit:
Email: teatt.trans@sintmaartengov.org
WhatsApp only: +1 (721) 559-7685

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