The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commenced the pilot phase of new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-enabled number plates as part of efforts to strengthen vehicle identification and security.
The Authority said the initiative is intended to modernise Ghana’s vehicle registration system while improving the authenticity and traceability of registered vehicles.
According to the DVLA, the pilot will allow it to assess the effectiveness of the new number plates, associated processes and operational requirements before the system is rolled out nationwide.
“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 DVLA said.
The initiative follows the passage of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519) and forms part of a broader programme to improve the integrity, security and efficiency of vehicle registration.
The new number plates will feature “REPUBLIC OF GHANA” prominently at the top, the Ghana Flag at the top-right corner, a biennial renewal sticker ring at the top-left, the region of registration at the bottom and a watermark of the map of Ghana at the centre.
The registration format has also been redesigned. Under the new system, the registration number will be followed by four letters, with the first two representing the Registration Centre Code and the remaining two serving as a Random Identification Mark.
The DVLA said the Random Identification Mark will not follow a sequential pattern.
Another major change is that the year of registration will no longer be displayed on the number plate.
The pilot will cover a selected number of vehicles, enabling the Authority to test and refine the new system before its full implementation.
The DVLA said it intends to begin the official issuance of the RFID-enabled number plates in January 2027, starting with unregistered vehicles.
The Authority said it would subsequently announce the modalities and commencement date for the re-registration of vehicles that are already registered.
“The introduction of the RFID-enabled number plate represents an important step in DVLA’s commitment to digitisation, enhanced vehicle security, improved revenue protection and greater efficiency in vehicle registration and identification,” the Authority said.
The DVLA urged vehicle owners and the motoring public to take note of the changes and assured them that further information would be provided ahead of each phase of the rollout.
