Newsroom
A glitch in Cyprus’ road transport system left drivers facing fines even though many believed they had successfully renewed their vehicle licenses online.
The problem came to light after frustrated drivers reported being pulled over by traffic police and told their licenses had expired, despite having receipts and bank confirmations showing payments went through.
The Road Transport Department admitted the issue stemmed from its computerized system, which failed to register some renewals during peak demand periods. “The problem occurred mainly at the start of the renewal period and in the days leading up to the deadline,” the department said in a statement. Officials said they are working with the government’s IT services to fix the glitch permanently.
Drivers affected are being urged to email the department at roadtransport@rtd.mcw.gov.cy so staff can correct their records and notify the police and legal service to clear any fines.
One woman told Sigma TV’s “Protoselido” program that she paid for three vehicles and even received her bank’s confirmation texts, only to later be fined because the renewals never registered in the system. She said when she contacted the Road Transport Department, staff initially blamed her bank.
The scope of the issue remains unclear, but the department insists cases will be resolved once flagged. For now, drivers are left double-checking their paperwork and hoping their next roadside stop doesn’t come with an unexpected penalty.
