AMA reminds yellow-plate drivers to obtain commercial driver’s licence

The Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) has issued a reminder to drivers of commercially registered vehicles to obtain a commercial driver’s licence or risk facing legal issues during enforcement. This follows persistent misunderstandings between motorists and enforcement personnel regarding the distinction between a commercial driver’s licence and a vehicle sticker for specific commercial activities.

Gilbert Nii Ankrah, Head of Public Affairs at the AMA, clarified that drivers operating vehicles with yellow registration plates must possess a commercial driver’s licence issued by the Assembly, in addition to their regular driving licence. The commercial driver’s licence, which costs GH¢60 for new applicants and GH¢23 annually, is distinct from the vehicle sticker displayed on the windscreen and must be carried by the driver during commercial transport operations.

The Assembly stipulates that even privately registered vehicles with white plates may require the sticker if used for activities covered by the Assembly’s permit arrangements. Mr Ankrah emphasized the importance of understanding that the two requirements serve different purposes and cannot be treated interchangeably. He urged commercial drivers to maintain valid licences and carry them while conducting commercial transport within the AMA’s jurisdiction, expressing hope that enhanced public education and consistent enforcement would improve compliance with the Assembly’s commercial transport regulations.