The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commenced a pilot phase of the new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-enabled vehicle number plate system. DVLA says, the RFID system is part of measures to strengthen vehicle identification, enhance security and modernise Ghana’s vehicle registration system.
The pilot marks a significant step in the Authority’s efforts to introduce a more secure, technology-driven and tamper-resistant vehicle identification system. The exercise will enable the Authority to assess the effectiveness of the new number plate and associated processes ahead of its nationwide rollout.
The initiative follows the passage of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519) and forms part of the DVLA’s broader programme to strengthen the integrity, security and efficiency of the vehicle registration system.
The new RFID-enabled number plate incorporates enhanced identification system and security features designed to improve traceability of registered vehicles. The enhanced features include:
“REPUBLIC OF GHANA” prominently displayed at the top of the plate;
The Ghana Flag positioned at the top-right corner;
A biennial renewal sticker ring at the top-left corner;
The region of registration displayed at the bottom; and
A watermark of the map of Ghana at the centre of the plate.
Under the new system, the year of registration will no longer appear on the number plate. The redesigned registration has numbers followed by four letters. The first two letters represent the Registration Centre Code, while the subsequent two letters constitute a Random Identification Mark, which does not follow a sequential pattern
The pilot phase will involve a selected number of vehicles and will allow the Authority to test and refine the new system. Official issuance of the new RFID-enabled number plates is expected to start from January 2027, with unregistered vehicles.
The Authority will subsequently announce the modalities and commencement date for the re-registration of vehicles that are already registered.
