All you need to know about Türkiye’s National Vehicle Recognition System

A new system aimed at combating widespread informality in Türkiye’s fuel sector is set to be implemented on Jan. 1, 2025. The National Vehicle Recognition System (UTTS) will affect both the fuel industry and individual drivers.

As the system’s launch date approaches, confusion has arisen, with many believing all vehicles will need to have the device installed immediately.

However, the system will initially apply to companies claiming fuel expenses in early 2025 and later extend to those purchasing new vehicles starting July 2025.

Here’s everything you need to know about the UTTS.

What is National Vehicle Recognition System (UTTS)?

The fuel sector has been one of the most affected by unreported transactions. Previously, vehicle recognition systems operated separately through fuel distribution companies, where pump attendants manually entered vehicle plate information into the system.

This led to abuses, with unused receipts being registered under different vehicles, allowing companies to report fuel expenses fraudulently. The UTTS aims to prevent such fraud by creating a more standardized and automated process.

When will UTTS be implemented?

The UTTS will come into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, requiring companies that wish to claim fuel expenses as business costs to install a vehicle recognition unit (TTB) device.

Although it is not mandatory for companies to install the device, those who do not will not be able to deduct fuel costs from their expenses. This change will affect approximately 8 million company vehicles across Türkiye.

Will UTTS apply to individual drivers?

Yes, the system will apply to individuals as well. However, there is a specific timeline to follow. As per the regulation published on Oct. 21, 2024, all new vehicles (zero kilometer) purchased after July 1, 2025, will require the TTB device.

Vehicles bought before this date will not be subject to this rule. Additionally, second-hand vehicle owners are exempt from this obligation. The deadline for individual vehicle owners to apply for the system is June 30, 2025.

How much will the TTB device cost?

As of 2024, the unit price for the TTB device, including installation, has been set at ₺1,810 ($52.3) + VAT (value-added tax received), as announced by the Turkish Mint.

The pricing for 2025 will be released closer to the date.

What does TTB device look like and where will it be installed?

The TTB device is a small, cube-shaped unit that will be installed at the entrance to the vehicle’s fuel tank.

During refueling, the device’s sensors will automatically send the vehicle’s plate number to the pump’s payment system, ensuring that all transactions are accurately recorded.

How can you apply for UTTS?

To apply for the UTTS, authorized installation companies, fuel distribution companies, and vehicle owners can visit the official website.

There, they can create a “UTTS Main User Account” and follow the necessary steps to register and install the TTB device.

Where and how will device be installed?

The installation must be done by certified professionals from authorized installation services. Currently, 78 companies are authorized to perform installations at over 1,000 locations across Türkiye.

To find the nearest authorized installation service, users can visit the UTTS website and check the “Installation Points” section.

How does UTTS work?

The UTTS works by automatically transmitting vehicle plate information from the TTB device to the pump’s payment recording system during refueling.

This ensures that every fuel purchase is documented, eliminating the potential for fraudulent transactions and ensuring accurate accounting.

How many vehicles and stations will be affected?

Türkiye has approximately 12,500 fuel stations, with the initial phase of the UTTS affecting 8 million company vehicles. By July 1, 2025, all new vehicles will need to comply with the system.

As a result, each year from 2026 onward, approximately 1 million vehicles will be added to the UTTS.

What are main benefits of UTTS?

The introduction of UTTS is crucial in preventing tax losses from fraudulent fuel transactions. In 2022 alone, unreported receipts led to a tax loss of at least ₺15 billion. By implementing this system, the government aims to close this tax gap and ensure better financial transparency across the fuel sector.

The UTTS marks an important reform that will bring transparency and accountability to the fuel industry. By automating the fuel transaction process, the UTTS will help prevent fraud, reduce tax losses, and ensure a fairer system for both businesses and individual drivers in Türkiye.