Starting August 1, 2025, the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) will officially stop issuing aluminum ‘Drive from Port’ (DP) number plates at Ghana’s ports. Instead, the Authority will begin using digital DP stickers for all vehicles cleared at entry points like Tema and Takoradi. This marks a major step in DVLA’s plan to modernize and digitize its services for vehicle importers and the general public.
According to the DVLA, the new system was successfully tested during a pilot program at the two major ports. The digital stickers will now replace the old metal plates, making the process faster, safer, and more efficient. The DVLA says this change will help reduce fraud, improve transparency, and cut down on delays at the ports.
How It Works
The digital stickers will be issued directly at the ports once a vehicle is cleared. This means vehicle owners will no longer need to visit DVLA offices to collect their stickers. The new system is also connected to customs and port operations, making it easier to track and verify vehicle details.
To boost safety, the DVLA is working with the State Insurance Company (SIC). Every vehicle that receives a digital DP sticker will also get insurance before leaving the port. This partnership ensures that all vehicles meet Ghana’s road safety and insurance laws. As SIC explained, this move will help protect drivers and passengers from the moment the vehicle hits the road.
Public Support and Helpline
“This transition is not only a move towards innovation but also a measure to ensure road safety and compliance,” said a spokesperson from the DVLA. The Authority is asking the public to support the new system and has provided a helpline (0302746760) for anyone with questions.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Vehicle importers and clearing agents have welcomed the digital sticker rollout. Many say the change will reduce waiting time and make it easier to move vehicles out of the port.
“We’ve been waiting for something like this,” says a vehicle importer at Tema Port. “The digital system is much faster, and we don’t have to worry about losing or damaging metal plates.”
Transport unions and road safety advocates have also praised the DVLA’s move. They believe this is a step toward better road management and digital record keeping.
Looking Ahead
The DVLA believes this change will make port operations more efficient and align with global best practices in vehicle registration. It’s part of a broader digital transformation agenda to reduce manual processes, speed up registration, and make services more accessible to everyone.
As Ghana continues to embrace digital solutions, the DVLA’s new sticker system is a clear sign of progress. It shows how technology can make everyday services better, safer, and more convenient for all.
