• In the 1980s, as the raising of Automobile Registration Fees (ARF) proved insufficient to control car ownership levels, the Government implemented the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system in May 1990. Since then, those who want to buy a new vehicle must apply for a COE from the Government by way of bidding.
• COEs are valid for ten years, after which they need to be renewed. Those who buy a second-hand vehicle need not purchase a new COE.
• The Government holds open bidding exercises every month on stipulated dates, launching a limited number of COEs for bidders who want to register a vehicle.

Bidding exercises for COE are divided into five categories: Category A, for small-medium cars up to 1,600cc and 97kW; Category B, for large and luxury cars above 1,600cc and 97kW; Category C, for goods vehicles and buses; Category D, for motorcycles; and Category E, an open category (for any kind of vehicle, excluding motorcycles).