The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has intensified efforts to eliminate middlemen and improve public service delivery through the expansion of its service centres across the country.
Mr Julius Neequaye Kotey, Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, said the rollout of premium service centres formed part of a broader strategy to enhance efficiency, transparency and accessibility in line with government’s reset agenda.
He was addressing guests at the inauguration of the DVLA Midcity Premium Centre at Bantama in the Kumasi Metropolis.
Mr Kotey reiterated that road safety remains the Authority’s core mandate and stressed that the DVLA is taking deliberate steps to eliminate the activities of “goro boys” by engaging clients directly.
According to him, dealing directly with applicants would ensure that only properly trained and qualified drivers operate within Ghana’s transport system.
He explained that the opening of new offices across the country demonstrates the Authority’s commitment to making services more accessible while dismantling informal middlemen networks within the system.
The CEO indicated that the fight against “goro boys” would not rely solely on punitive measures. Instead, the DVLA would render such practices obsolete by expanding its operational footprint and simplifying service access for the public.
Mr Kotey noted that the Bantama Premium Centre was established under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement between the DVLA and Midcity Auto Service, and he commended the private partner for its support.
He emphasised that all drivers must undergo proper training, testing and certification, while vehicles must be duly registered and certified roadworthy before being permitted on Ghana’s roads.
The new Bantama facility will provide a comprehensive range of DVLA services, including vehicle registration, transfer of ownership, issuance of new driver’s licences, licence renewals and upgrades, replacement of expired or lost licences, and conversion of foreign licences.
Mr Kotey added that the centre is equipped with modern technology fully integrated into the DVLA’s digital systems to ensure faster processing times and improved customer experience.
Opanin Agya Poku, Chief Operating Officer of Midcity Auto Service, said the partnership would enable clients to access multiple services at one location, eliminating the need for long-distance travel.
He disclosed that the centre would also provide roadworthiness inspections prior to vehicle registration and offer on-site eye-testing services to assess applicants’ vision before licences are issued.
The expansion, officials say, marks a significant step toward improving regulatory compliance, enhancing road safety and restoring public confidence in the DVLA’s operations.
