Motorists in Barbados can now update and receive vehicle registration discs online, eliminating the need for in-person visits to Barbados Revenue Authority (BRA) payment centres.
The new digital vehicle registration system, accessible via https://portal.bra.gov.bb, marks a significant shift toward convenience and efficiency for thousands of drivers across the island.
A Collaborative Digital Transformation
The initiative is a joint effort between the BRA, the Barbados Licensing Authority, general insurance companies, and The Barbados Police Service. Minister of Finance Ryan Straughn hailed the move as a step forward in modernising public services:
“By digitising this aspect of private vehicle registration, we are not only improving convenience for the public but also strengthening the integrity of our registration and insurance systems while working to reduce the lines in our offices.”
View Barbados Luxury Properties for Sale
The system automatically updates vehicle registration records using data from general insurance companies, ensuring compliance with the Road Traffic Act. Once a vehicle’s insurance details are verified, owners can download a digital vehicle registration card instantly.
Ensuring Accuracy and Compliance
According to Carolyn Williams-Gayle, a senior BRA official, accuracy is critical to the system’s success. During testing, four common issues were identified that could prevent a registration card from being generated:
- Incorrect data entry (e.g., license plate, chassis, engine, or VIN number errors)
- Missing information
- Mismatched records
- Lapsed insurance policies
To assist vehicle owners, the system provides real-time error notifications, guiding users on how to correct discrepancies.
“The system is designed to notify users immediately when an issue is detected, specifying the nature of the discrepancy and directing them to the appropriate solution,” Williams-Gayle explained.
View Barbados Luxury Properties for Sale
Current Participation and Next Steps
Approximately 75% of general insurance companies in Barbados have uploaded their data to support the new system. However, vehicle owners whose insurance details are not yet available online will still need to visit their insurance provider and BRA offices in person.
Williams-Gayle expressed appreciation for the cooperation of insurance companies and reassured the public that the BRA’s contact centre is available for assistance.
This digital shift represents a major step in Barbados’ ongoing efforts to enhance efficiency, reduce bureaucracy, and improve customer service in vehicle registration.
View all of our Properties for Sale in Barbados
