The Consumer Unity and Trust Society (CUTS) International has called on the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to suspend its escalating “delinquency” charges on expired driving licences. CUTS states there is no clear legal basis for these charges under the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180). The organization is demanding transparency on the legal authority, approval process, and formula used to determine these fees.
These charges significantly increase the cost of renewing an expired licence. While a renewal before expiry costs GHS 127, the fee rises to GHS 204.25 for licences expired up to six months. This cost can reach GHS 404.25 for licences expired for more than four years, according to the DVLA’s 2026 Summary of Licensing and Other Activity Rates. CUTS argues these automatic increases question whether the charges are legally approved fees or administrative penalties.
This situation fits into a broader narrative of regulatory bodies in Ghana facing scrutiny over their operational transparency and adherence to established legal frameworks. Public trust in state institutions is vital for economic stability and citizen compliance. Unexplained charges can erode this trust and create unnecessary financial burdens on the populace. This issue also touches on the ease of doing business and the cost of living in Ghana, as unexpected fees impact household budgets.
Appiah Kusi Adomako, Director of the West Africa Regional Centre of CUTS International, stated, “The DVLA must show Ghanaians the law, the approved fee schedule and the formula behind every cedi it collects as a delinquency charge.” He added that if the Authority cannot point to a clear legal basis, it must stop collecting the money and refund affected licence holders. CUTS cited Regulation 33(1) and 33(2) of L.I. 2180, which cover licence renewal, and Regulation 33(9), which provides for penalties for failure to renew. This raises questions about the legality of additional automatic charges.
The implications of this call are significant for both the DVLA and Ghanaian motorists. The DVLA may face pressure to either justify the charges legally or suspend them, potentially leading to a review of its fee structure. For citizens, a suspension could alleviate financial strain, especially for those who did not drive with an expired licence. CUTS also seeks clarity on waivers for individuals who can prove non-use of their licence during expiry. The think tank further wants the DVLA and Ghana Police Service to clarify their roles in enforcing laws against driving with expired licences, particularly where motorists might face both court penalties and additional DVLA charges. This situation could also prompt parliamentary inquiry into the legality and administration of these charges, ensuring greater accountability and transparency in public service delivery.
CUTS also questioned the GHS 181 charge for amending basic licence records, such as residential addresses. They argue such fees could discourage motorists from keeping their information updated, which is counterproductive to regulatory goals. Mr. Adomako emphasized, “The DVLA should design fees to support compliance, not discourage it.” This highlights the need for a regulatory framework that encourages adherence rather than imposing punitive measures without clear legal backing. The outcome of this advocacy will be closely watched by consumer rights advocates and the general public.