Bono East: DVLA Manager clarifies new vehicle number plate system set to begin in January 2026

The Bono East Regional Manager of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Mr. Alfred Basum, has provided further clarification on the new vehicle number plate system, which will take effect from January 1, 2026.

He explained that the initiative forms part of efforts by the new DVLA leadership, under the Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, to modernize Ghana’s vehicle registration process and bring it in line with international best practices.

According to him, Ghana has been among the few countries where vehicle licence plates display the year of registration. However, this will soon change following a new policy direction by the DVLA aimed at improving efficiency and enhancing security in the registration system.

“The new leadership of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), under the able direction of our Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, has recognized the need to introduce new measures to enhance vehicle registration in Ghana and align with international best practices.

“Ghana has been one of the few countries where a vehicle’s licence plate indicates the year of registration. In his wisdom, Mr. Kotey has introduced an innovation to revise this aspect of our operations to meet global standards. Consequently, beginning in 2026, the DVLA will commence the issuance of a newly designed number plate for vehicle owners.” He said.

He explained that the new number plates, which will be rolled out in 2026, will feature a special embedded electronic chip that can be scanned digitally. This innovation is expected to integrate seamlessly with the government’s ongoing digitalization drive, including the planned automation of road toll systems.

Mr. Basum revealed that this reform is part of a broader national agenda to promote digital governance, improve service delivery, and support Ghana’s long-term development goals.

“The new number plates will feature a special embedded chip that can be scanned electronically. This innovation aligns with the government’s digitalization agenda, particularly the planned automation of road toll systems. The initiative forms part of a broader national effort to modernize transport administration and support the country’s overall development.

Touching on already licensed vehicles, he explained that private vehicles are required to renew their roadworthiness certificates every 12 months, while commercial vehicles must do so every 6 months. He noted that under the new arrangement, vehicle owners with old number plates will have them replaced with the new design during their next roadworthiness renewal, at a fee to be announced later.

“Every private vehicle is required to renew its roadworthiness certificate every 12 months or more, while commercial vehicles must do so every 6 months. Under the new arrangement, whenever owners of vehicles with old number plates come to renew their roadworthiness, their old plates will be replaced with the new ones at a fee, which will be communicated later.” He told our reporter.

The Bono East Regional Manager of the DVLA stated that each new number plate will be linked to the owner’s personal identity, making it their bona fide property.

According to him,  vehicle owners who wish to use their existing number plates under the new system can visit any DVLA office, where officers will verify all necessary documentation including duty clearance and roadworthiness certificates before assigning the plate to their new vehicle.

‘One interesting aspect of this new system is that once you register your number plate, it will be tied to your personal identity and become your bona fide property. This means that even if you sell your car, the number plate will not be transferred with it. When you buy a new vehicle, you can reuse your number plate after completing the required processes at the DVLA.

‘Therefore, if you purchase a new vehicle and wish to use your existing number plate under the new system, you can visit any DVLA office. Our officers will verify your documentation, including duty clearance and roadworthiness certificates. If everything is in order, your existing number plate will be assigned to your new vehicle.” He stated.

Source: Ghanaweb.mobi