The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) will roll out new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) number plates nationwide in 2027. This move follows the completion of the plate design. The DVLA aims to enhance vehicle security and streamline operations across Ghana.
These RFID-enabled plates will improve vehicle identification and strengthen law enforcement. They will also support electronic road tolling. DVLA Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye Kotey announced this during the Government Accountability Series in Accra. He confirmed the plates are currently undergoing pilot testing in selected areas.
This initiative fits into Ghana's broader push for digital transformation in public services. It aligns with efforts to modernise infrastructure and improve revenue collection. The DVLA's financial performance shows progress. The authority contributed GHS 17.7 million to the Consolidated Fund in 2025. It also gave GHS 80.4 million to the Road Fund, totaling GHS 98.1 million.
Mr. Kotey stated that DVLA staff developed the design internally, avoiding consultancy fees. He explained, "The new number plate responds to the need to modernise vehicle registration with technology. It allows access to instant and real-time information, and enables integration for electronic road tolling as well." This statement highlights the DVLA's commitment to technological advancement and efficiency.
The nationwide rollout in 2027 will require vehicle owners to register their details on an electronic database. This decentralised process will occur at regional DVLA offices. The system will enable real-time verification of vehicle ownership. It will also help distinguish private vehicles from commercial ones, including 'Okada' motorcycles. A public education campaign has already begun to prepare citizens for the change.
Beyond the RFID plates, the DVLA has introduced digital stickers for temporary vehicle registration at ports. This measure addresses revenue leakages. Monthly issuance of these stickers surged from 1,800 to over 15,000 by October 2025. Revenue from these stickers increased from GHS 15 million in 2024 to more than GHS 27 million between January and September 2026. This significant growth demonstrates improved financial management.
The authority also renegotiated service-level agreements for roadworthy certificates. This reduced projected costs from US$155.4 million over three years to GHS 2 million for the same period. The DVLA recorded a surplus of GHS 25 million in 2025, a substantial increase from GHS 5 million in 2024. These financial improvements underscore the DVLA's operational efficiency.
The DVLA has expanded its network from 33 to 63 offices in two years. This includes 12 authority-owned offices and 18 Ultra Centres established through private-sector partnerships. Other initiatives include 24-hour services at selected offices and computer-based driving tests in six local languages. An electronic library of driver refresher videos and SMS reminders for licence renewals are also in place. The authority is also introducing a demerit points system for traffic violations. This system could lead to licence revocation and mandatory retraining for repeat offenders.
The DVLA, in collaboration with the Minerals Commission, has registered over 7,700 excavators at the ports. Furthermore, 357 vehicles were impounded and handed to the Ghana Revenue Authority. These vehicles were involved in alleged customs duty violations, detected using on-board diagnostic devices. These actions highlight the DVLA's role in broader national security and revenue protection efforts.