When you own a vehicle in the Dominican Republic — whether it’s a car, truck, or motorcycle — you are required to pay an annual tax known as the Impuesto de Circulación Vehicular, commonly called the marbete. This is a mandatory government tax that allows your vehicle to legally circulate on public roads each year.
What Is the Marbete?
The marbete is both a tax and a physical sticker affixed to a vehicle’s windshield. It serves as proof that you have paid the annual vehicle circulation tax. Without it, your vehicle is not legally authorized to drive in the Dominican Republic.
When Do You Pay Marbete?
The marbete must be renewed once every year. The renewal period typically begins in October and continues through January of the following year.
For example, the 2025–2026 marbete renewal period started on October 21, 2025, and will be available for payment through January 18–31, 2026, depending on the payment method selected.
It is important to pay within the official renewal period, since missing the deadline can trigger additional charges and penalties.
How Much Does Marbete Cost?
The amount you pay for the marbete depends on the age of your vehicle:
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Vehicles older than five years (manufactured five years ago or more) pay RD$1,500.
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Vehicles five years old or newer pay RD$3,000.
These amounts are standardized by the Dirección General de Impuestos Internos (DGII) and have remained stable in recent renewal cycles.
Late Payments and Penalties
If you fail to renew your marbete before the deadline:
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A late fee (recargo) may apply (for example, an additional RD$2,000 if paid after the official deadline).
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Previous renewal periods that were missed may incur additional penalties and administrative charges.
Required Documents to Renew
When renewing your marbete, whether in person or online, you generally need the following:
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A legible and current copy of your vehicle’s registration (matrícula).
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A copy of the owner’s cédula (ID card), or the person who is going to renew it.
Payment Methods
DGII provides multiple ways to pay the vehicle circulation tax, making the process flexible and convenient:
1. Online Through the DGII Website or Mobile App
You can renew your marbete online through:
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The official DGII website (www.dgii.gov.do), or
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The DGII mobile application.
Online renewal is often the most convenient option, especially if you want the marbete delivered rather than picking it up in person. Note that online payments typically require a credit card. Once processed, shipping times vary (about 4–8 business days, depending on location).
2. In Person
You can pay and receive your marbete immediately at one of the many authorized financial institutions or DGII service offices. During the renewal period, there are dozens of bank branches and DGII locations across the country where you can complete the payment in person. In Sosúa, you can go to Asociacion la Nacional .
Best Practices
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Plan: Renew early in the official period to avoid lines and penalties.
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Keep your documents up to date: Make sure your vehicle registration and ID copies are current and readable. If you are renewing more than one vehicle, you need an ID copy for each one.
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Choose your payment method: Online renewal can be more convenient, but in-person payment gives you an immediate receipt.
If you own property or a vehicle here in the Dominican Republic — whether as an expat or resident — understanding the marbete process helps ensure your vehicle remains legally compliant and avoids unnecessary penalties.
For more local guides like this, continue following the Sosua Cabarete Real Estate blog.