DVLA Begins Pilot of New RFID-Enabled Number Plates
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commenced the pilot phase of its new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-enabled number plate as part of measures to strengthen vehicle identification, enhance security and modernise Ghana’s vehicle registration system.
In a statement dated September 29, 2026, the Authority said the pilot marks a significant step in its efforts to introduce a more secure, technology-driven and tamper-resistant vehicle identification system.
According to the DVLA, the exercise will enable it to assess the effectiveness of the new number plate and associated processes ahead of its nationwide rollout.
The initiative follows the passage of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519) and forms part of the Authority’s broader programme to strengthen the integrity, security and efficiency of the vehicle registration system.
The Authority said the new RFID-enabled number plate incorporates enhanced security and identification features designed to improve the authenticity and traceability of registered vehicles.
The features include “REPUBLIC OF GHANA” prominently displayed at the top of the plate, the Ghana Flag positioned 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. Under the new system, the registration number will be followed by four letters.
The first two letters represent the Registration Centre Code, while the subsequent two letters constitute a Random Identification Mark, which does not follow a sequential pattern.
The year of registration will no longer appear on the number plate.
The DVLA said 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 Authority intends to commence the official issuance of the new RFID-enabled number plates in January 2027, beginning with unregistered vehicles.
It added that it will subsequently announce the modalities and commencement date for the re-registration of vehicles that are already registered.
The Authority said the introduction of the RFID-enabled number plate represents an important step in its commitment to digitisation, enhanced vehicle security, improved revenue protection and greater efficiency in vehicle registration and identification.
The DVLA encouraged the public to take note of the upcoming changes and assured vehicle owners and the motoring public that adequate information will be provided ahead of each phase of the rollout.
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