The Chief Executive Officer of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, has assured Ghanaians that the long-awaited rollout of the new RFID-embedded vehicle number plate system will commence soon, once the necessary legislative processes are concluded.

In a New Year message to staff and road users, Mr. Kotey said the delay in the full implementation of the new vehicle registration system was due to the need to align the proposed reforms with amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180).

He explained that although the Authority had initially planned to launch the system in January, respect for due process and parliamentary approval remained critical to ensuring a smooth and lawful rollout.

“The wait is almost over,” the DVLA CEO said, noting that the Authority is at the final stages of the legislative process and will move swiftly once Parliament reconvenes and completes work on the regulations.

Mr. Kotey outlined key features of the new number plate system, including the elimination of year suffixes in favour of a modern regional and zonal identification structure, enhanced vehicle security through RFID technology, and stronger accountability by linking number plates directly to vehicle owners.

He emphasised that the new system is designed not merely to change number plates, but to transform the security and tracking architecture of Ghana’s transport system, improve the recovery of stolen vehicles, and strengthen road safety enforcement.

In the meantime, he reassured motorists that the current 26-suffix number plates and Drive-from-Port (DP) stickers remain valid and legal, urging the public to continue using them until the new system is officially launched.

Mr. Kotey also commended DVLA staff for their dedication, particularly in clearing operational backlogs and advancing the Authority’s digitalisation agenda.

He praised their integrity and commitment to transforming the DVLA into a world-class institution.

Addressing road users, the DVLA boss expressed appreciation for their cooperation and patience, especially during engagements at lorry parks, ports and registration centres across the country.

Looking ahead to 2026, Mr. Kotey said the Authority would prioritise reducing waiting times at DVLA offices, strengthening digital systems to curb the activities of middlemen, and ensuring that only roadworthy vehicles and qualified drivers are allowed on Ghana’s roads.

He called on all stakeholders to support the Authority’s vision of a smarter, safer and more efficient transport system, while urging motorists to drive with discipline and caution in the new year.

Mr. Kotey concluded by wishing Ghanaians a prosperous 2026 and praying for safety on the nation’s roads.