DVLA – Suspension Of New License Plates Rollout

DVLA announces the suspension of the new RFID license plates planned for January 2026.

DVLA Pauses 2026 Rollout of New RFID License Plates, Extends Current Plate Validity.

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has officially postponed the launch of its high-tech new license plates.

Consequently, the anticipated January 2, 2026, introduction is now suspended until further notice.

Rollout Suspended Pending Legislative Approval

This decision follows a delay in the necessary parliamentary approvals. Specifically, while updates to the Road Traffic Act were completed, the required amendments to the supporting Road Traffic Regulations (L.I. 2180) could not be finalized before Parliament’s recent recess.

Therefore, the legal framework for the new plates is not yet fully in place.

Interim Measures for Current Plates and Stickers

As a result of this postponement, the DVLA has immediately announced interim measures for drivers. Importantly, the authority will extend the use of current Departure from Port (DP) stickers and DV Plates.

Owners utilizing these identifiers can continue to do so without interruption until a future deadline, which the DVLA will communicate later.

Vehicle Registration to Continue in 2026

However, the Authority clarifies that vehicle registration services will continue unabated. For instance, anyone needing to register a vehicle in 2026 can still do so at any regional DVLA office.

Be advised, though, that such vehicles will likely require re-registration once the new license plate system is eventually implemented.

The Technology Behind the Planned New Plates

Meanwhile, the planned new plates feature embedded Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. This upgrade is designed to significantly enhance traceability and road safety by bringing Ghana’s systems in line with modern global standards.

Next Steps and Public Assurance

Ultimately, the DVLA emphasizes that the new license plate rollout will proceed as soon as the remaining legislative steps are resolved.

The Authority has thanked the public for their ongoing support and patience during this process, reaffirming its commitment to “Your Safety, Our Concern.”

Vehicle owners are encouraged to rely on official DVLA channels for further updates regarding the new timeline and final regulations.