- DVLA rolls out advanced tracking via new DP stickers
- Vehicles must be registered within 2 weeks of purchase
- New plates will no longer show year of manufacture
Julius Neequaye Kotey, Chief Executive of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), has unveiled significant changes to Ghana’s vehicle registration process, including the introduction of new number plates and advanced vehicle tracking technologies.
In an interview on Face to Face on Channel One TV on Tuesday, August 19, Mr. Kotey explained that the newly introduced Dealer’s Permit (DP) stickers are intended to enhance accountability and traceability of vehicles from the point of entry into the country.
“The new DP sticker enables us to monitor who is driving the car, when it entered Ghana, its intended destination, and the sticker’s expiration date. Scanning the code reveals all this information. Previously, we had cars in the system without knowing their owners, but now, from the port onward, ownership is clearly identified,” he said.
Mr. Kotey emphasized that while car dealers are allowed to use DV stickers for vehicles kept in garages, private individuals must register their vehicles within two weeks of purchase. He warned that using DV plates without valid justification—such as transporting a car for repairs—is against the rules.
He also noted that the DVLA is considering the introduction of a special license plate for those who fail to register their vehicles within the two-week deadline. However, he warned that these plates would be issued at a “very expensive” cost.
Another key reform involves the removal of the year of manufacture from number plates. Starting January 1, 2026, vehicle plates will adopt a new format, displaying a regional code at the top and an area-specific code at the end.
“For example, a plate might read GR 222 AD, with ‘AD’ indicating Adenta. We’ve completed the necessary legal procedures and plan to launch this new system on January 1,” Mr. Kotey announced.
