DVLA to arrest, prosecute drivers with fake or expired DV plates and DP stickers from May 4.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced that, effective Monday, May 4, 2026, it will begin the arrest and prosecution of individuals found in possession of vehicles bearing fake, forged, or expired DV plates and DP stickers.
The directive, issued on Friday, April 17, 2026, followed an earlier public notice on March 19, 2026, which outlined the Authority’s intention to clamp down on the use of expired 2025 DV plates, forged 2026 DV plates, and expired DP stickers, with initial enforcement commencing on 24th March 2026.
Since the start of the exercise, the DVLA’s Compliance Team, in collaboration with the Motor Traffic and Transport Department of the Ghana Police Service, has undertaken targeted operations across various locations. These initial efforts focused primarily on the removal of non-compliant plates and stickers.
Continued non-compliance prompts escalation
Despite these interventions, the Authority has observed continued non-compliance by some vehicle users. The DVLA has therefore reiterated that, under Regulation 23(11) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), it is unlawful to possess or use forged or fake trade licences, including DV and DP plates and stickers.
In light of this, the DVLA will escalate its enforcement measures from 4th May 2026, with any individual found in violation to be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The directive is aimed at strengthening regulatory compliance, protecting the integrity of vehicle registration data, and safeguarding public safety. The Authority has called on all vehicle users to comply fully with the regulations and support ongoing efforts to ensure a transparent, accountable, and efficient vehicle administration system.
Background
The DVLA introduced DP stickers to address revenue leakages associated with the previous aluminium DP plate system. Following the reform, the Authority recorded a significant increase in the issuance of DP stickers, from an average of 2,000 stickers per month to approximately 15,000 in October 2025.
However, a recent decline in DP sticker issuance at the ports prompted further investigations, leading to the impoundment operation and now the escalation to arrests and prosecutions.
Vehicle users with expired or non-compliant plates and stickers have until May 4, 2026, to regularise their documentation before facing the full rigours of the law.
