By Angela Adu-Asomaning
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has suspended the planned rollout of new vehicle number plates scheduled to begin on January 2, 2026.
The decision follows delays in approving amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), which outline the specifications for the plates. The Chief Executive of the DVLA, Julius Neequaye Kotey, said that although Parliament amended the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), the specific provisions under L.I. 2180 were not passed before Parliament went on recess on Friday, December 19.
Mr Kotey said the rollout would commence once all legislative requirements are fully approved. He made this known at a media briefing in Accra, where he explained the suspension of the intended rollout.
“In light of the L.I. 2180 amendments not being passed, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) hereby informs the general public that the rollout of new licence plates, originally scheduled for January 2, 2026, has been suspended,” he said.
In the interim, the DVLA has announced the continued use of the current Departure from Port (DP) stickers and DV plates. These will remain valid until a time limit announced by the Authority. Mr Kotey also clarified claims that he had cancelled contracts related to the new vehicle number plates.
“The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) wishes to inform the general public that, pending the resolution of legislative requirements in Parliament, the rollout of new licence plates has been deferred. In the interim, motorists may continue to use the current ‘Departure from Port’ (DP) stickers and the ‘Defective Vehicle’ (DV) plates. The Authority emphasises that DP has transitioned from plates to stickers, while DV remains as a plate. Holders of both DP stickers and DV plates are permitted to use them until a time limit is announced in due course. The new licence plate rollout will commence once the necessary legislative amendments are finalised,” he said.
DVLA Board Chairman, George Spencer Quaye, said the successful rollout would enhance security and road safety.
“The Authority is on the right track, and we respectfully seek your support to ensure success in this endeavour. When we succeed, you benefit, the people of Ghana benefit, and our roads become safer and more secure. Incidents of confusion, collisions and hit-and-run cases will be eliminated, paving the way for a safer future for all,” he said.
The Authority has urged stakeholders to support the initiative once it receives the necessary approval.
