Malta’s three ridehailing platforms have been ordered to block some 900 y-plated cabs in a bid to
clamp down on abusive on-street parking.

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In an official notice issued by Transport Malta earlier this week, platforms Bolt, eCabs, and Uber
were directed to suspend service to a list of some 900 y-plate operators after these failed to secure
what is known as Public Service Garage, where cabs are meant to be parked while not in use.

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The clampdown comes after repeated extensions allowing noncompliant y-plate operators grace
periods to apply for and secure a garage space.

The estimated 900 suspended vehicles, make up roughly a fifth of the 5,000 y-plates active on
Maltese roads. (Source: https://nso.gov.mt/motor-vehicles-q3-2024/ )

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It is understood that the decision will not have any major impact on the price of cabs as the
Transport Malta enforcement comes during a post-holiday season lull that means there is more than
enough supply to meet demand for rides

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What Is a Public Service Garage?

According to Maltese law, anyone operating a vehicle rental or leasing service must also maintain a
PSG.

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In essence, to run a y-plate service, it is not enough to own the vehicles; operators must have a
garage that meets stringent safety, insurance, and maintenance standards.

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PSG licences are issued by Transport Malta but only after a permit has been issued by the Planning
Authority.

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October 2023 – Introduction of subsidiary legislation 499.68, to regulation 78 of the Light Passenger
Transport Services and Vehicle Hire Services Regulations. All y-plate operators and fleets urged to
get in line.

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October 2024 – Notice sent to all y-plate fleet operators (See image). This provided an extension
until December 18 2024 to have at least applied for a PSG.

October 2024 – Notice sent to all y-plate fleet operators (See image). This provided an extension
until December 18 2024 to have at least applied for a PSG.

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January 2025 – Transport Malta writes to all platforms (Bolt, eCabs, Uber) directing them to suspend some 900 y-plates over their failure to apply for a PSG.