WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao's new vehicle license plates are equipped with technology designed to work with the island's network of security cameras, but motorists cannot yet receive traffic tickets based solely on camera footage because the necessary legal framework has not been finalized.
The new license plates were introduced to be compatible with Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology, allowing strategically placed cameras across the island to automatically identify and record vehicle license plates.
The system is intended to support law enforcement by detecting traffic violations such as speeding and running red lights, while also identifying vehicles with unpaid road taxes or other outstanding violations.
Although the technology is fully operational, authorities are currently unable to use camera recordings as the sole basis for issuing traffic fines.
According to available information, the government has invested millions of guilders in the island-wide camera network and related technology. However, without legislation authorizing the use of ANPR evidence for traffic enforcement, the system cannot yet be used to automatically issue citations.
As a result, while motorists may already be recorded by the cameras, no automated fines can currently be imposed based solely on the captured images.
The situation highlights the gap between technological implementation and legislation. Until the required legal framework is approved, the ANPR system's role will remain limited despite its technical capabilities.
Once the necessary laws are enacted, the camera network is expected to become a key tool in improving road safety, enhancing traffic enforcement and strengthening the government's ability to detect vehicles involved in criminal activity or operating in violation of tax and traffic regulations.