This study explores the dynamics of taxpayer compliance with motor vehicle taxes, shedding light on the intricacies of transport taxation. Focusing on the mediating role of taxpayer awareness, the research employs a quantitative approach with Likert scale measurements. Primary data is gathered from 300 respondents in Bekasi Regency, Indonesia, out of a population of 1,789,548 taxpayers, using accidental sampling. SEM-PLS analysis reveals that adherence to tax rules, system updates, understanding tax intricacies, higher incomes, and taxpayer awareness contribute significantly to enhanced tax compliance within the context of motor vehicle taxation. Notably, the study finds that public education about taxes does not significantly impact compliance in this specific domain. The factors influencing taxpayer awareness encompass tax rules, system upgrades, tax knowledge, public education, and income levels. While taxpayer awareness is linked to system upgrades, tax knowledge, public education, income levels, and compliance, it doesn’t connect with tax rules and compliance in the realm of motor vehicle taxation. The research implications provide valuable guidance specifically tailored to policymakers and tax authorities dealing with transport taxation. Emphasizing the significance of tax penalties, system modernization, and tailored taxpayer awareness programs can foster improved compliance in the motor vehicle taxation domain. Policymakers are urged to reassess the efficacy of tax socialization initiatives in the context of transport taxation, exploring alternative approaches for public tax education in this specific domain. Understanding the nuanced interplay among tax rules, system upgrades, tax knowledge, public education, income levels, taxpayer awareness, and compliance in the realm of motor vehicle taxation can inform targeted interventions for an overall enhancement of tax adherence in this specialized area.