Ghana's Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commenced local production of vehicle number plates. This strategic shift ends the authority's dependence on imported plates and external manufacturers. The initiative seeks to bolster security around vehicle identification and tackle the rising issue of counterfeit number plates.
The DVLA has started constructing a dedicated manufacturing centre at its Greater Accra regional office. This facility is expected to be ready within three months. It will produce number plates embedded with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. This advanced technology will add an extra layer of security to vehicle identification.
This development fits into Ghana's broader economic strategy to promote local manufacturing and reduce import dependency. It aligns with efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight in key sectors. The move also aims to improve public service delivery and combat illicit activities within the transport system. The DVLA's database already contains nearly 4 million registered vehicles, highlighting the scale of this operation.
Julius Neequaye Kortey, the Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, performed the sod-cutting ceremony for the project on Friday, August 28, 2026. Mr. Kortey stated that this initiative is part of wider reforms to reposition the DVLA. He emphasized its role in strengthening the integrity of vehicle registration and identification nationwide. He also clarified that the DVLA will regulate private embossers, not eliminate them.
This change will likely lead to more standardized and secure vehicle identification across Ghana. It could also reduce the flow of foreign exchange used for importing number plates. Decision-makers will monitor the project's completion and its effectiveness in curbing counterfeit plates. The public will watch for improved service delivery and accessibility of number plate services.
The new system will decentralize number plate services, making them more accessible to vehicle owners. Manufactured plates will be distributed to DVLA offices nationwide for embossment. Each region will receive an embossment machine to support this decentralized approach. The Greater Accra and Ashanti regions will get five and three machines, respectively, due to their high registration volumes. This aims to ensure consistent quality and limit unauthorized production. The DVLA believes greater control over manufacturing will make it harder for unauthorized persons to reproduce official plates. This project is a key part of the Authority’s plan to modernize operations and improve service delivery in Ghana’s road transport sector.