The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana has begun a pilot phase of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-enabled number plates. This move aims to strengthen vehicle identification, enhance security, and modernize Ghana's vehicle registration system. The pilot exercise involves a selected number of vehicles and will help the Authority assess and refine the new number plates, processes, and operational requirements ahead of a nationwide rollout.
The initiative follows the passage of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519) and is part of the Authority's broader program to strengthen the integrity, security, and efficiency of the vehicle registration system. According to the DVLA, the RFID-enabled number plate comes with enhanced security and identification features designed to improve the authenticity and traceability of registered vehicles.
The new number plate design will prominently display "REPUBLIC OF GHANA" at the top, with the Ghana flag positioned at the top-right corner. It will also feature a biennial renewal sticker ring at the top-left corner, the region of registration at the bottom, and a watermark of the map of Ghana at the center. The registration details have also been redesigned, with the registration number followed by four letters.
The first two letters of the registration number will represent the Registration Centre Code, while the next two will constitute a Random Identification Mark which does not follow a sequential pattern. The year of registration will no longer appear on the number plate. The DVLA stated that the pilot phase will allow it to test the new system before its full implementation.
The Authority intends to commence the official issuance of the new RFID-enabled number plates in January 2027, beginning with unregistered vehicles. It will subsequently announce the modalities and commencement date for the re-registration of vehicles that are already registered. The DVLA urged vehicle owners and the general public to take note of the upcoming changes.
The Authority assured the motoring public that adequate information would be provided ahead of each phase of the rollout. It also appealed for the cooperation and support of the public as it undertakes what it described as "an important transition towards a safer, more secure and technology-enabled vehicle registration system."
The DVLA's initiative forms part of its commitment to digitization, enhanced vehicle security, improved revenue protection, and greater efficiency in vehicle registration and identification. Key points of the new system include:
Key points
- The introduction of RFID-enabled number plates with enhanced security features
- A redesigned registration number system with a Random Identification Mark
- A nationwide rollout scheduled for January 2027
