The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has shut down several insurance company offices operating on its premises in Cape Coast and Sunyani following a targeted enforcement operation into the illegal sale of Defective Vehicle (DV) plates.
According to a statement issued by the Authority on February 13, 2026, the affected offices were ordered to close with immediate effect after investigations uncovered their alleged involvement in unauthorized DV plate transactions.
The DVLA explained that the decisive action followed comprehensive intelligence reports and on-site inspections into the unlawful distribution of DV plates.
“Our investigations revealed unauthorized sales by certain garage owners and operators who have been bypassing the law by selling DV plates directly to private individuals,” the statement noted.
The Authority further disclosed that the plates were being sold at inflated prices, exploiting unsuspecting members of the public. It also cited instances of aiding and abetting, indicating that some insurance companies operating within DVLA premises were facilitating the illegal trade by providing a physical hub for black-market transactions.
The DVLA reminded stakeholders that under existing transport regulations, DV plates are strictly reserved for licensed garage owners and vehicle dealers. They are intended solely for the movement of unregistered vehicles for testing, demonstration, or transit purposes — not for regular use by private individuals.
“DV plates are not for general private use,” the Authority stressed, warning that any deviation from the law undermines the integrity of the licensing system and compromises road safety.
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and service excellence, the DVLA said it will not tolerate activities that threaten the security of Ghana’s vehicle licensing framework.
The Authority added that it is collaborating closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure that all individuals and entities implicated in the illegality are held accountable under Ghanaian law.
The DVLA has advised the public to refrain from purchasing DV plates from unauthorized sources, cautioning that such transactions carry legal risks and could jeopardize vehicle security.
“For all vehicle registration and licensing needs, please visit our official service counters or use our approved digital platforms,” the statement urged.
The Authority reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the integrity of its operations and ensuring safety on the nation’s roads.
