The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has commissioned its 25th district office in Asuogyaman, Eastern Region. This new facility aims to improve access to licensing services and combat fraudulent vehicle and driver documents.
The office is part of the DVLA’s decentralisation programme, which seeks to establish 40 district offices nationwide. It will provide essential services like vehicle registration, driver licence acquisition, and renewals directly to local residents. This move reduces the burden on individuals who previously travelled to distant towns for these services.
This expansion aligns with Ghana’s broader efforts to modernise public services and enhance road safety. The DVLA’s decentralisation strategy aims to bring government services closer to citizens, fostering greater compliance and reducing opportunities for fraud. The initiative also supports the government's digital transformation agenda, integrating technology into public administration.
Mr. Joseph Bukari Nikpe, the Minister for Transport, stated that bringing DVLA services closer to the people would improve access to driver education and professional training. He urged residents to avoid intermediaries, often called “goro boys,” who facilitate fake driving licences and vehicle registration documents. Mr. Nikpe also announced plans for a technology-driven traffic enforcement system, Traffic Tech, in collaboration with the Ghana Police Service.
The opening of this new office is expected to significantly reduce the prevalence of fake documents and improve road safety outcomes. Enhanced access to legitimate services will empower citizens to comply with regulations, thereby reducing the market for illicit activities. Furthermore, the planned introduction of biometric international driving licences and decentralised licence printing will streamline processes and minimise delays, benefiting both individuals and the national economy.
The DVLA’s Chief Executive, Mr. Julius Neequaye Kotey, revealed that vehicle cloning detection technology had led to the seizure of about 200 vehicles in the past six weeks. These vehicles were suspected of using genuine customs documentation and chassis numbers from legitimately imported vehicles to register others without proper duty payments. This technology allows the DVLA to verify chassis numbers directly with manufacturers, preventing fraudulent registrations. The Authority also plans to introduce number plates with SIM technology to assist law enforcement in monitoring vehicles. This comprehensive approach underscores a commitment to transparency and accountability in vehicle and driver licensing across Ghana.