The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commenced the pilot phase of its new Radio F
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commenced the pilot phase of its new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-enabled number plates as part of measures to strengthen vehicle identification, enhance security and modernise Ghana’s vehicle registration system.Geographic Reference
The Authority said the pilot would allow it to assess the effectiveness of the new number plates and associated processes before a nationwide rollout.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 29, the DVLA said, “The pilot marks a significant step in the Authority’s efforts to introduce a more secure, technology-driven and tamper-resistant vehicle identification system.”
The initiative follows the passage of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519), and forms part of the DVLA’s broader programme to strengthen the integrity, security and efficiency of the vehicle registration system.
The new RFID-enabled number plates incorporate enhanced security and identification features designed to improve the authenticity and traceability of registered vehicles.
These include “REPUBLIC OF GHANA” prominently displayed at the top of the plate, the Ghana flag at the top-right corner, a biennial renewal sticker ring at the top-left corner, the region of registration displayed at the bottom and a watermark of the map of Ghana at the centre of the plate.
The registration details have also been redesigned. The registration number will be followed by four letters, with the first two representing the Registration Centre Code and the subsequent two constituting a Random Identification Mark, which does not follow a sequential pattern.
Under the new system, the year of registration will no longer appear on the number plate.
“The pilot phase will involve a selected number of vehicles and will allow the Authority to test and refine the new system, processes and operational requirements ahead of its full implementation,” the DVLA said.
The Authority intends to commence the official issuance of the new RFID-enabled number plates in January 2027, beginning with unregistered vehicles.
It said it would subsequently announce the modalities and commencement date for the re-registration of vehicles that are already registered.
The DVLA said the introduction of the RFID-enabled number plates would support “digitisation, enhanced vehicle security, improved revenue protection and greater efficiency in vehicle registration and identification.”
The Authority has therefore urged vehicle owners and the motoring public to take note of the upcoming changes, assuring them that “adequate information will be provided ahead of each phase of the rollout.”
It also appealed for the cooperation and support of the public as it undertakes the transition towards a “safer, more secure and technology-enabled vehicle registration system.”
