The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana has taken a significant step to make its driving theory test more accessible to applicants who are not proficient in English. On October 12, 2026, the DVLA's Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, announced the introduction of six local languages on its computer-based driving theory test platform. This move aims to reduce language barriers and allow applicants to demonstrate their knowledge of road signs, traffic regulations, and safe driving practices in their preferred language.
The six local languages added to the platform are Twi, Ga, Ewe, Dagbani, Nzema, and Hausa. With the help of translation software, applicants can now take the mandatory driving theory examination in one of these languages. According to Mr. Kotey, this initiative is a significant milestone in making the driving test more inclusive and accessible to a wider range of applicants. The DVLA is also working to increase the number of local languages available on the platform in the future.
In addition to introducing local languages on the driving test platform, the DVLA has also implemented a system of SMS reminders to notify licence holders of their renewal or replacement dates. The system sends reminders one month and two weeks before a licence expires. This move aims to reduce the number of licences that expire without being renewed, and to encourage licence holders to take timely action to renew their licences.
The DVLA's SMS reminder system is part of a broader effort to improve its services and make them more convenient for clients. According to Mr. Kotey, the authority is working to deploy a similar system for vehicle roadworthiness renewals. This will enable clients to receive timely reminders of their due dates for roadworthy renewals, and to take necessary action to ensure that their vehicles remain roadworthy.
The DVLA is also introducing an electronic library system at its offices to provide clients with access to driver refresher and road safety videos. This system will allow clients to watch videos that enhance their driving skills and knowledge of road safety. According to Mr. Kotey, this initiative is part of the authority's efforts to promote road safety and reduce the number of accidents on Ghana's roads.
The introduction of local languages on the driving test platform, SMS reminders, and the electronic library system are all part of the DVLA's efforts to improve its services and make them more accessible to clients. These initiatives demonstrate the authority's commitment to promoting road safety and making its services more convenient and inclusive for a wider range of applicants.
The DVLA's efforts to improve its services have been welcomed by applicants and stakeholders. With the introduction of local languages on the driving test platform, more applicants can now demonstrate their knowledge of road signs, traffic regulations, and safe driving practices in their preferred language. The authority's commitment to promoting road safety and making its services more accessible and inclusive is expected to have a positive impact on Ghana's roads.
Key points
- The DVLA has introduced six local languages on its computer-based driving theory test platform to help applicants who cannot read or write in English.
- The authority has also implemented a system of SMS reminders to notify licence holders of their renewal or replacement dates.
- The DVLA is introducing an electronic library system at its offices to provide clients with access to driver refresher and road safety videos.
