The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) of Ghana has addressed concerns over delinquency charges imposed on motorists who fail to renew their driver's licenses on time. According to the DVLA, these charges are not arbitrary but are penalties provided for under existing regulations. The charges range from GH¢52 to GH¢148, depending on the circumstances and duration of the non-renewal. Motorists are urged to renew their licenses promptly to avoid extra costs.
The delinquency charges vary based on the circumstances and the duration for which the license has remained unrenewed. The charges include GH¢52 for delinquency for non-renewal (one sticker) and GH¢104 for delinquency for non-renewal (two stickers). For renewals made between 7 and 12 months after expiry, the charge is GH¢75, while renewals made above one year to two years after expiry incur a charge of GH¢111. Those renewing above two years after expiry face a charge of GH¢148.
The DVLA cited the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), as the legal framework governing the renewal and replacement of driver's licenses. Regulation 46(1) allows for the renewal of a driver's license at any time within one month before its expiry, provided the prescribed fee is paid. The renewed license takes effect from the date the previous license expires. Sub-regulation 6 of Regulation 46 states that a driver's license is subject to renewal every two years and must be replaced after six years from the date it was issued.
The penalties for failing to renew a license before its expiry are provided for under the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512). This regulation establishes different delinquency categories based on the circumstances and duration of the non-renewal. The DVLA emphasized that the additional payments motorists encounter when renewing expired licenses are prescribed penalties rather than arbitrary charges imposed by individual DVLA service centers.
Motorists who allow their driver's licenses to expire before renewing them may have to pay additional delinquency charges. The DVLA has clarified that it is the responsibility of motorists to ensure that their licenses remain valid and to take steps to renew them before their expiry dates. The Authority has urged motorists to monitor the validity of their driver's licenses and renew them within the prescribed period to avoid additional delinquency charges.
To avoid delinquency charges, motorists are encouraged to check their license expiry dates and begin the renewal process within the permitted period rather than waiting until the license has expired. The DVLA offers various channels for license renewal, making it easier for motorists to comply with the regulations. By renewing licenses on time, motorists can avoid the inconvenience and extra cost associated with delinquency charges.
The DVLA's clarification aims to inform motorists about the importance of timely license renewal and the legal basis for delinquency charges. Key points include the responsibility of motorists to maintain valid licenses, the legal framework governing license renewal, and the varying charges for late renewals. By understanding these aspects, motorists can better manage their license renewals and avoid unnecessary penalties.
Key points
- The DVLA urges motorists to renew their licenses on time to avoid delinquency charges.
- Delinquency charges for expired licenses range from GH¢52 to GH¢148.
- The charges are based on existing regulations, specifically the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), and the Fees and Charges (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025 (L.I. 2512).
