New guidelines announced for the vintage vehicle sector

by Gozo News · July 7, 2025

A set of new guidelines for the classification of vintage vehicles come into effect as from the 1st of September, when every application for vintage classification will require a physical inspection by the Vintage Vehicle Classification Committee.

The details were announced by Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett, who explained that a recertification system will be introduced for vehicles between 30 and 49 years old, with an inspection every five years to directly assess each vehicle and ascertain its authenticity, originality and condition.

For vehicles 50 years old or older, this obligation does not apply if a FIVA certificate is presented.

The Minister said that these changes are the result of months of consultation and dialogue with various stakeholders, including the Maltese Vintage Vehicle Federation (FMVA), which expressed its full support for these new rules.

Minister Chris Bonett said, “the Maltese love for classic vehicles is great and it is our duty to protect this sector. The conservation of these cars and motorcycles, for many, is not just a matter of nostalgia but a part of their lives and a tangible way of protecting a heritage that should be appreciated and passed on to future generations.”

The Minister explained how, over time, the vintage community has grown and the need for clearer rules and higher standards has arisen. The current system was in many cases based on photographs and documentation and did not always give these vehicles the protection and seriousness they deserve.

“There was consensus from both the public and the owners themselves that vintage status should be truly prestigious and reserved for those vehicles that are truly well cared for,” concluded Minister Bonett.

Gilbert Agius, Chief Officer for Land Transport within Transport Malta said that, “these guidelines are intended to protect genuine owners from those who in the past have tried to abuse the system and reduce the value of their effort. In this way, every vintage number plate on our roads will become a credible certificate of the work and passion of the owners on their cars.”