DVLA to Begin Pilot of New RFID-Enabled Number Plates

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has launched a pilot phase of a new RFID-enabled vehicle number plate system in Ghana. This technological advancement aims to bolster vehicle identification, bolster security, and modernize the nation's vehicle registration system. The pilot phase signifies a crucial step towards a more secure, tech-driven, and tamper-resistant vehicle identification system, as per the DVLA.

The RFID-enabled number plate will undergo assessment and refinement before its nationwide implementation. The initiative stems from the recent passage of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (L.I. 2519) and is part of the DVLA's comprehensive plan to enhance the integrity, security, and efficiency of the vehicle registration system.

The innovative new plate features several distinguishing elements. At the top, the "REPUBLIC OF GHANA" is prominently displayed; the Ghana flag is positioned in the top-right corner; a biennial renewal sticker ring sits at the top-left corner; the registration region is displayed at the bottom; and a map of Ghana serves as a watermark in the center.

Notably, the year of registration will no longer be displayed on the plate. Instead, the new system incorporates numbers followed by four letters - the first two letters denote the Registration Centre Code, while the remaining two form a Random Identification Mark, which lacks a sequential pattern.

The pilot phase will involve a chosen group of vehicles, providing the DVLA with an opportunity to test and perfect the new system. The official issuance of the new RFID-enabled number plates is slated to commence in January 2027, initially for unregistered vehicles. Following this, the DVLA will announce the re-registration procedures for vehicles that are already registered.