DVLA and Police Launch Nationwide Crackdown on 2025 DV Plates and Expired DP Stickers Starting Tuesday
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), working hand-in-hand with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service, will commence a strict nationwide enforcement exercise from Tuesday, March 24, 2026, targeting vehicles still displaying 2025 DV plates or expired DP stickers.
In an official public notice issued today, the DVLA explained that the temporary extension allowing the continued use of 2025 DV plates and DP stickers was granted solely due to delays in the nationwide rollout of the new vehicle licence plates. That grace period has now ended.
Key points from the DVLA notice:
2026 DV plates were officially issued starting February 4, 2026, to motor traders, fleet owners, and licensed trade plate dealers.
From March 24 onward, any vehicle continuing to use 2025 DV plates or expired DP stickers will be in violation of the law.
DV plate usage is strictly regulated under Regulation 23 of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), which clearly defines the categories of vehicles permitted to use trade plates (DV plates).
Private vehicles or any vehicles not falling within the authorised categories must complete full registration and obtain standard number plates — failure to do so will attract penalties.
The DVLA further reminded the public that all its regional and district offices have been processing 2026 vehicle registration and licensing since January 2, 2026. Motorists who have not yet updated their plates or stickers are urged to visit the nearest DVLA office immediately to avoid sanctions during the upcoming crackdown.
What to Expect During Enforcement
Police and DVLA teams will conduct roadside checks, vehicle inspections, and clampdowns across major highways, urban centres, and rural routes. Offenders risk:
On-the-spot fines
Vehicle impoundment
Court summons
Other penalties as prescribed under the Road Traffic Regulations
The joint exercise is part of broader efforts to improve road safety, ensure proper vehicle identification, reduce the use of unauthorised or fake plates, and enhance revenue collection through compliant licensing.
Motorists are advised to check their vehicle documentation, renew expired stickers where applicable, and upgrade to 2026 DV plates or standard registration without delay.
The DVLA reiterated its commitment to fair enforcement while urging full public cooperation to keep Ghana’s roads safer and more orderly.
