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Madeira Region Halts TVDE Licenses for Four Months, Drivers React

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Madeira Region Halts TVDE Licenses for Four Months, Drivers React
O Jornal Económico
The Madeira regional authorities announced a four‑month freeze on TVDE licences and driver registrations, sending shockwaves through a sector that employs thousands of local and expatriate drivers.

📌 Key Highlights & Context

  • No new TVDE licences or driver registrations will be processed for four months
  • The suspension is expected to cut ride‑sharing supply by up to 40%
  • Drivers and platforms warn of significant income losses and service gaps

Details of the Decision

On 12 November 2024, during a meeting of the Madeira Regional Government chaired by President Miguel Albuquerque, officials announced a four‑month suspension of TVDE (Transportes de Veículos Descaracterizados) licences and driver averbations. The measure stops both new licence applications and the registration of additional drivers.

Impact and Reactions

Immediately after the announcement, ride‑sharing operators warned that vehicle availability could drop by 30‑40%, especially as the tourist season approaches. Drivers expressed concerns over a projected 20‑25% loss in earnings.

  • New licence applications: 0
  • Additional driver registrations: 0
  • Estimated income reduction: 20‑25%

The local Chamber of Commerce said it will launch a study to assess the long‑term economic consequences and work with authorities on mitigation measures.

Sources

Governo da Madeira suspende emissão de licenças de TVDE por quatro meses