The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana has begun a pilot phase of its new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-enabled vehicle number plate system. This initiative aims to strengthen vehicle identification, enhance security, and modernise Ghana's vehicle registration system. The pilot phase is a significant step towards introducing a more secure, technology-driven, and tamper-resistant vehicle identification system.
The pilot phase will enable the DVLA to assess the effectiveness of the new number plate and associated processes ahead of its nationwide rollout. The exercise follows the passage of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519) and is part of the DVLA's broader programme to strengthen the integrity, security, and efficiency of the vehicle registration system.
The new RFID-enabled number plate incorporates enhanced identification system and security features designed to improve traceability of registered vehicles. These features include "REPUBLIC OF GHANA" prominently displayed at the top of the plate, the Ghana Flag positioned at the top-right corner, and a biennial renewal sticker ring at the top-left corner.
The region of registration will be displayed at the bottom of the new number plate, and a watermark of the map of Ghana will be at the centre of the plate. Under the new system, the year of registration will no longer appear on the number plate. Instead, the redesigned registration will have numbers followed by four letters, with the first two letters representing the Registration Centre Code.
The subsequent two letters in the new registration system will constitute a Random Identification Mark, which does not follow a sequential pattern. This change is aimed at improving the security and uniqueness of vehicle registrations. The DVLA has assured that the new system will be more secure and resistant to tampering.
The pilot phase will involve a selected number of vehicles and will allow the Authority to test and refine the new system. Official issuance of the new RFID-enabled number plates is expected to start from January 2027, with unregistered vehicles.
The Authority will subsequently announce the modalities and commencement date for the re-registration of vehicles that are already registered. The DVLA's move to introduce the new RFID-enabled number plates is part of its efforts to modernise and secure Ghana's vehicle registration system.
Key points
- The new RFID-enabled number plate system aims to enhance security and modernise Ghana's vehicle registration system.
- The pilot phase will test the new system with a selected number of vehicles before its nationwide rollout.
- Official issuance of the new number plates is expected to start from January 2027.
