More than 100 young people have so far surrendered their driving licences under a new government initiative that offers financial incentives to reduce private vehicle use in Malta.The Driving Licence Surrender Scheme, launched by Transport Malta, allows eligible applicants to give up their licence for a period of five years in exchange for up to €25,000 in total payments according to Newsbook.Under the programme, participants receive €5,000 per year over five years once they voluntarily hand in their licence. The scheme operates on a first‑come, first‑served basis and targets residents aged 30 or under who have lived in Malta for at least seven years and held a Category B driving licence for at least 12 months before applying.Drivers who join the scheme are prohibited from driving any vehicle in Malta or abroad for the full five‑year period. After this period, successful participants may apply for a new licence, which requires 15 hours of driving lessons at a licensed school.If someone chooses to exit the scheme before the five years are complete, they must repay part or all of the grant, with penalties reducing the closer they are to the end of the period. Additionally, anyone found driving while enrolled in the scheme faces a €5,000 fine, must repay outstanding grant amounts, and could face legal consequences.Transport Minister Chris Bonett said the incentive forms part of the government’s long‑term strategy to reduce car dependency by encouraging alternative mobility solutions.Applications for the scheme are open until 30th June.Have you considered giving up your drivers licence?Credit: Erika Lanzafame via Newsbook •