NATIONAL STANDARD AVAILABLE TO GUIDE THE SALE OF USED MOTOR VEHICLES

Mar 01, 2026 Features / Columnists, News

GNBS IN FOCUS

(Kaieteur News) – The sale of used motor vehicles is common in Guyana, with imports from several countries and local resale.To ensure clarity and protection for buyers and dealers as well, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS)in 2021 developed a National Standard. The GYS 583 — Requirements for Sale of Used Motor Vehicles was developed, drawing on the CARICOM Model Consumer Protection Bill and the CARICOM Model Consumer Standard (Used Motor Vehicles) Regulations.

The National Standard defines a used motor vehicle as one that has been, at any time prior to being offered or displayed for sale, registered in Guyana or another country. This definition also includes a motor vehicle used for demonstration purposes in connection with the sale of another motor vehicle.

The Standard does not apply to a moped, trailer, mobility device, tractor or farm machinery, or to any vehicle of any class or description declared by the relevant authority to be a motor vehicle.

With consumer protection at its core, the Standard applies to any used motor vehicle offered or displayed for sale by a supplier. It requires that each vehicle be accompanied by a Consumer Information Notice providing clear and essential details to help buyers make informed decisions.

According to the document, the notice must include supplier information, the cash price and hire purchase price, details of any security interest, the make and model, engine capacity, vehicle identification or chassis number, warranty information, fuel type and vehicle history. Additionally, the notice should indicate any outstanding local road user charges, such as tickets, as well as the status of the road service licence, certificate of fitness, insurance and any hire purchase agreement of sale.

GYS 583 also outlines post-sale obligations to ensure transparency and accountability after purchase. These requirements include a signed agreement of sale between the consumer and the supplier; an indication of whether the vehicle has a current certificate of fitness; and a warranty in accordance with the Consumer Affairs Act and GYS 169 — Specifications for the Content of Warranties for Goods.

Further, the supplier must indicate whether the motor vehicle has a current vehicle license, registration number and registration certificate, as well as the number or distinguishing mark on the registration plate, among other required details.

By establishing clear requirements for disclosure and post-sale obligations, GYS 583 promotes transparency, builds trust within the marketplace, fosters fair competition among suppliers and helps to reduce disputes.

To acquire a copy of this or any other National Standard, contact the GNBS on 219-0064 or 219-0065, or via WhatsApp at 692-4627. An email can also be sent to info@gnbsgy.org.

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CARICOM Model Consumer Protection Bill, GNBS, sale, used motor vehicles

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