The program, initiated by Transport Malta in early 2026, is a strategy to alleviate pressure from private vehicles in the island nation, which has one of Europe's highest car ownership rates.

Participants will receive a grant of 5,000 euro annually, totaling 25,000 euro over five years. In return, they must surrender all categories of their driving licenses and commit to not operating any motor vehicles, both domestically and internationally.

Malta's Minister for Transport, Chris Bonett, stated that this policy aims to shift mindsets and foster a public transport culture among young people. "We are offering incentives for young people to become catalysts for change. Cars are no longer the only means of transport," Bonett said.

Malta's streets are constantly congested due to its small size and an increasing number of private cars. *Times of Malta*.

To be eligible, candidates must have resided in Malta for at least seven years, hold a category B driving license for 12 months or more, and have no traffic violations on record. Payments are made in annual installments based on compliance. If caught driving, participants will face administrative penalties and must refund any received payments. After five years, to drive again, they must complete an additional 15 hours of practical training at a certified center.

The program is limited by a 5 million euro budget and prioritized on a first-come, first-served basis. By late March, Transport Malta reported that approximately 100 young people had applied.

However, many transport experts doubt the program's effectiveness, as new vehicle registrations in Malta show no signs of slowing. Some suggest the government should focus its budget on improving public transport infrastructure, especially the bus system in suburban areas.

Malta, an island nation with an area of 316 km2 and a population of approximately 574,000, is burdened by over 445,000 registered vehicles. This situation leads to severe traffic congestion on its streets. To address this, in addition to incentivizing people to give up driving, the government is also providing free bus services and expanding inland waterway connections.

Minh Phuong (According to The Portugal News, Malta Independent)