The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced a major overhaul of its temporary vehicle registration process, with the nationwide rollout of a digital “Drive from Port” (DP) sticker system set to begin on August 1, 2025.
This will officially phase out the use of aluminium DP number plates at all entry points, replacing them with secure, scannable digital stickers.
The new system, which has already been piloted successfully at the Tema and Takoradi ports, marks a significant milestone in the DVLA’s digital transformation agenda.
In a public notice, the Authority said the switch to digital stickers is designed to enhance security, improve operational efficiency, and simplify the experience for vehicle importers and the general public.
“This move is aimed at making DVLA services secure and efficient for our clients, we ask for the cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure a smooth and successful rollout,” the Authority said.
Insurance Integration and Real-Time Verification
As part of the implementation, the DVLA is working closely with the State Insurance Company (SIC) to ensure that every vehicle issued a DP sticker is insured before leaving the port premises. The collaboration is intended to reduce the number of uninsured vehicles on the road and improve post-clearance compliance.
The new system enables real-time verification of the sticker’s authenticity, insurance status, and vehicle details, thereby reducing the risk of fraud and misuse. Security agencies, including the Police and Customs, will be equipped to scan and confirm sticker details on the spot.
A Step Forward in Ghana’s Transport Digitisation Agenda
The rollout is part of the DVLA’s broader digitisation strategy aimed at modernising Ghana’s transport ecosystem.
Other initiatives under this agenda include the online vehicle registration portal, biometric driver licensing, and automated roadworthiness certification.
The introduction of digital DP stickers is further expected to reduce congestion at ports, shorten processing times, and ultimately lead to more transparent and traceable vehicle movements across the country.
By digitising temporary vehicle identification, the DVLA hopes to curb the proliferation of fake or duplicated aluminium plates and limit the window for their abuse by criminal elements.
Public Awareness Campaign Underway
In preparation for the change, the DVLA has launched a public awareness campaign to educate port users, clearing agents, and transport companies about the new procedures. Training and sensitisation sessions are also being held at major entry points to ensure stakeholders are ready ahead of the switchover.
All vehicle importers are advised to familiarise themselves with the digital DP sticker system and ensure that they comply with new registration protocols before clearing vehicles from the port starting August 1.
