DVLA Chip-Enabled Number Plates to Track Vehicles and Tolls

The DVLA will introduce chip-enabled number plates to track vehicles and collect tolls across Ghana. The move also formalises the work of informal agents, called Goro boys, who assist motorists with registration and licensing.

DVLA Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye Kotey told Channel One TV on August 19, 2025, that the reform will register these agents officially. He said it will regulate their fees and prevent overcharging.

“I proposed formalising their work and bringing them on board. They will not become DVLA staff, but we can control their charges,” Kotey said. He added that not all Goro boys commit fraud. “Those who perform proper transactions will join the system. We will target only those who cheat clients,” he said.

The DVLA chip-enabled number plates will replace metal plates with plastic ones containing chips. Officers can read these chips remotely to get vehicle details instantly. Kotey said the system can also collect annual tolls during roadworthy certificate renewals.

Officials have not set a rollout date yet. Committees continue to review the proposal. Kotey said the reforms will boost revenue and improve road safety. He highlighted a 57 per cent revenue increase in his first quarter, thanks to tracking DP stickers and cracking down on plate theft.

The DVLA also fights illegal mining. Kotey said authorities now register imported excavators to trace their owners. Over 1,000 machines remain impounded.

Kotey defended roadside checks, saying GH¢225 fines for expired licences or fake fire extinguishers follow the law. The DVLA issues receipts for every payment.

The DVLA chip-enabled number plates mark a major step in modernising Ghana’s transport system. They increase accountability and improve road compliance for all drivers.

Source: Graphiconline