18/03/2026
LTA ANNOUNCES NEW LICENSED TAXI (LT) PERMIT - BASE/STAND FRAMEWORK
Suva, Fiji: The Land Transport Authority has announced the opening of a new phase for Fiji’s taxi industry, following the Government’s decision to uplift the freeze on Licensed Taxi (LT) permits and introduce a strengthened regulatory framework.
In line with the uplifting of the freeze on taxi permits and new taxi permit base and stand framework, LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa says the Land Transport Authority now has the responsibility of operationalising recent regulatory amendments in a structured and transparent manner.
This includes the removal of the taxi barrel draw system and the open taxi rank system, which would be replaced with the reintroduction of the base and stand framework, under which each taxi operator will be assigned to a designated base and stand.
“To allow for a smooth transition, existing taxi operators will be provided with adequate time to adjust to the new arrangement. Current operators will have until 30th September 2027 to revert to their former bases or identify a suitable taxi stand,” he said.
As the implementing authority, Mr Rokosawa said the Authority would roll out the taxi permit application process in a phased and scheduled manner across regions.
He says this approach will ensure that applications are managed efficiently, and that services remain accessible without placing unnecessary pressure on our branches.
“The initial rollout will prioritise rural areas, where transport services are often limited and communities rely heavily on accessible public transport options. We aim to ensure that individuals who genuinely need the opportunity to operate taxis, both as a public service and as a means of livelihood, are given fair access to the permit application process,” he said.
“Extensive public awareness and information campaigns will also be conducted from today. These will clearly outline the eligibility criteria, required documentation, and the proper process for submitting an application. This is particularly important because we want members of the public to be fully informed and prepared before visiting an LTA branch.
“Interested applicants will be able to access the requirements and application checklist from any LTA branch or via our website www.lta.com.fj. Applicants will be given a three-week preparatory period to gather the required documentation as per the application checklist. Completed applications will only be accepted at LTA from 8th April 2026.”
He says the three-week preparation window has been deliberately provided to promote quality submissions, reduce processing delays, and ensure that applicants are fully compliant with regulatory expectations before lodging their applications.
In addition, Mr Rokosawa says the Authority has introduced new eligibility criteria aimed at ensuring that opportunities within the taxi industry are directed toward those who depend on it most.
“Priority will be given to individuals with an annual household income of F$30,000 or below. Another important policy shift is that taxi permits will now be issued exclusively to individuals, rather than companies or corporate entities. This measure is intended to strengthen accountability and ensure that permit holders are directly responsible for the operation, maintenance, and service standards of their vehicles,” he said.
Mr Rokosawa says individuals currently engaged in informal or illegal taxi services are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to regularise their operations by applying through the proper channels.
The CEO also reminded members of the public to remain vigilant against scammers and impersonators.
He said there have been past instances where individuals have falsely claimed they could ‘assist’ people in obtaining taxi permits in exchange for cash payments. These fraudulent activities have unfortunately led to some unsuspecting Fijians being misled and losing their money.
“Let me make this very clear: no officer from the Land Transport Authority will randomly contact individuals by phone or through other means offering to secure a taxi permit in exchange for payment or favours. Taxi permits will only be processed through the official LTA application process, and all payments, where applicable, will be made through approved and transparent channels,” Mr Rokosawa said.
Further information on the application process, documentation requirements, and regional rollout schedule will be shared through LTA's official communication platforms. Members of the public are encouraged to rely only on these official LTA channels for accurate and reliable information.
The new Taxi Permit Base/Stand Framework - Checklist and Form can be obtained from www.lta.com.fj - Public Transport section or via the link - https://www.lta.com.fj/ViewContent?ResourceId=10421. These are also available at any LTA Branch. Completed applications will be accepted from 8th April 2026.
