The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a reminder to drivers of commercially registered vehicles in Ghana, urging them to obtain a commercial driver's licence to avoid trouble during enforcement. This move aims to clarify the difference between a commercial driver's licence and the vehicle sticker required for certain commercial activities. The AMA has noted persistent misunderstandings among motorists and enforcement personnel regarding these requirements.
According to Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, Gilbert Nii Ankrah, drivers operating vehicles with yellow registration plates are required to obtain a commercial driver's licence from the Assembly. This licence is in addition to the driving licence issued by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA). The commercial driver's licence is issued to the individual driver, not the vehicle, and must be carried during commercial transport operations.
The AMA-issued commercial driver's licence comes in the form of a card and costs GH¢60 for new applicants, with an annual renewal fee of GH¢23. This is separate from the vehicle sticker, which is displayed on the windscreen and subject to applicable permit requirements. Mr Ankrah emphasized that having a vehicle sticker does not automatically mean a motorist must obtain a commercial driver's licence.
Mr Ankrah further explained that even privately registered vehicles with white number plates could be subject to applicable vehicle sticker requirements. This is particularly true when they are used to convey goods or undertake activities covered by the Assembly's permit arrangements. The clarification aims to help motorists understand that the two requirements serve different purposes and should not be treated as interchangeable.
Under the Assembly's by-laws, authorised enforcement officers may request commercial drivers to produce their AMA-issued commercial driver's licences for inspection. The Assembly's transport enforcement task force is also empowered to inspect vehicles for the required stickers and commercial driver's licences. This is part of efforts to regulate commercial transport operations within the metropolis.
Mr Ankrah urged commercial drivers operating within the AMA's jurisdiction to ensure that their Assembly-issued licences remain valid and are carried during commercial transport activities. He expressed hope that increased public education and consistent enforcement would reduce confusion among motorists and improve compliance with the Assembly's commercial transport regulations.
The AMA's reminder and clarification are aimed at promoting compliance with commercial transport regulations in Ghana. By obtaining the required licences and stickers, drivers can avoid enforcement action and contribute to a safer and more regulated transport environment. The Assembly will continue to educate motorists and enforce regulations to ensure a smooth and efficient transport system.
Key points
- Drivers operating vehicles with yellow registration plates must obtain a commercial driver's licence from the AMA.
- The commercial driver's licence is separate from the vehicle sticker and serves a different purpose.
- The AMA will continue to educate motorists and enforce regulations to promote compliance with commercial transport regulations.
