The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is introducing a temporary vehicle plate message system that will allow motorists to legally display celebratory inscriptions such as “Just Married” and “Called to the Bar” on their vehicles for a limited period.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Wednesday, August 5, DVLA Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye Kotey said the initiative is aimed at regularising a common practice that has long been carried out without legal approval.
According to him, many motorists currently cover or alter their registration plates with messages marking weddings, funerals and other personal events, despite the practice being prohibited under existing regulations.
Rather than outlawing the trend, the DVLA has decided to introduce an official system that will enable motorists to obtain authorised temporary plates for special occasions.
Mr Kotey explained that applicants will be required to pay a prescribed fee, after which they will receive a temporary plate valid for one week.
He said the initiative is designed to help people celebrate important milestones while ensuring compliance with road traffic regulations.
As an example, the DVLA CEO noted that newly qualified lawyers could legally display messages such as “Called to the Bar” or “Fresh Lawyer” on their vehicles after being admitted to the legal profession.
The new temporary plate system is expected to provide motorists with a lawful way of marking significant life events while preserving the integrity of Ghana’s vehicle registration framework.
