772 drivers found without a licence and insurance by Transport Malta last year

772 drivers found without a licence and insurance by Transport Malta last year

Technology and legislative action must follow enforcement… This week's report that 772 drivers were found operating vehicles without a valid licence and insurance during inspections last year is both encouraging and concerning.

Encouraging, because increased enforcement activity is clearly identifying non-compliance. Concerning, because the figure itself remains significant. While no reference was made to the total number of inspections carried out, 772 cases in a single year points to persistent gaps that must be addressed.

For several years, the Insurance Association Malta has consistently advocated for more effective use of technology in enforcement.

Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) systems — already widely deployed in Malta — can provide real-time verification of licence and insurance status. In other jurisdictions, this approach has proven both efficient and cost-effective.

Visible enforcement remains essential. However, modern, data-driven systems can significantly enhance compliance while optimising resources. At the same time, continued legislative progress is critical. Following completion of Committee Stage in December 2025, we believe it's timely for Parliament to proceed with the third reading of Bill 146 concerning the prevention of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs.

Improving road safety requires coordinated enforcement, appropriate legislation, and the intelligent use of available technology. The framework exists. It is now a question of implementation.

An Article was published on Times Of Malta by Giulia Magri on 2nd February 2026.

To read the Article click here