Starting January 1, 2025, modified motorbike exhaust systems must be certified and registered with the Ministry of Environment, or violators will face heavy penalties. Under the "Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act" and the "Noise Control Act," fines can reach up to NT$5,400 with a deadline for compliance. Continued violations could result in fines as high as NT$30,000.
Exhaust Certification System Implementation
The Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Transportation are collaborating to enforce the exhaust certification system, officially launching in 2025. Using uncertified exhaust systems will incur fines of NT$900 to NT$1,800 under the "Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act." If noise testing fails, an additional NT$1,800 to NT$3,600 fine will be applied under the "Noise Control Act," totaling up to NT$5,400, with mandatory compliance deadlines.
Non-compliance or continued violations will be penalized further under Article 8 of the "Noise Control Act," with fines ranging from NT$3,000 to NT$30,000. Night-time violations carry heavier fines, starting at NT$6,000.
Attention Motorcyclists: Starting in 2025, Changes to Motorcycle Exhaust Systems Must Be Registered (Image credit: Highway Bureau: Road People FB)
Motorbike Driving Training Subsidy up to NT$3,800
To improve riding safety, the Highway Bureau has extended the "Motorbike Driving Training Subsidy" program. Participants who complete the full course and obtain a license will receive a subsidy of NT$1,300. Additionally, starting in 2025, the new "Training 3.0" program will grant NT$2,500 to learners holding permits who attend training. Combined, subsidies can total up to NT$3,800, limited to 2,000 participants, encouraging skill enhancement.
Streamlined Immigration Clearance for Ages 10+
The National Immigration Agency announced that starting January 1, 2025, the "Automated Immigration Clearance System" will lower its age limit from 12 to 10 years and the height requirement to 120 cm. Nationals without household registration can also apply for and use the system without permits. The first year of implementation is expected to benefit 430,000 people, enhancing clearance efficiency.
Anyone aged 10 and above, with a height of at least 120 cm and holding a valid Taiwanese e-passport, can use the "Automated Immigration Clearance System" (Image credit: Ministry of the Interior FB).
TPASS 2.0 Expands Loyalty Discounts
To boost public transportation usage, the Ministry of Transportation will open TPASS membership registration on January 14, 2025. From February onward, frequent users who meet specific ride thresholds will receive monthly cashback rewards. Additionally, those who complete TPASS 2.0 card replacements by the end of 2025 will enjoy an early bird discount of 10% per month. The ministry is also evaluating a QR code format for TPASS to increase convenience.
Stay Alert for 2025 Policy Changes
These new measures, covering traffic, immigration, and subsidies, are closely tied to daily life. Motorcyclists, frequent travelers, and public transportation users are advised to familiarize themselves with the changes to protect their rights and avoid penalties.
