The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced the suspension of its planned rollout of new licence plates, which was scheduled to begin on January 2, 2026, due to pending legislative amendments.
In a press release issued by management on Wednesday 24th December, 2025, the DVLA explained that the introduction of the new licence plates, designed with Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to enhance vehicle traceability and promote road safety, requires amendments to two key legal instruments: the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683) and the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180).
According to the Authority, while Parliament successfully passed the necessary amendments to the Road Traffic Act, the specific changes required under L.I. 2180, which details the specifications of licence plates, were not completed before Parliament went on recess on Friday, December 19, 2025.
“As a result of the outstanding amendments to L.I. 2180, the DVLA is unable to proceed with the planned rollout of the new licence plates,” the Authority stated, announcing the suspension of the exercise until the legislative process is completed.
The DVLA further assured the public that from January 2, 2026, the existing Departure from Port (DP) stickers and DV plates will remain valid for use. Vehicle owners who currently have DP stickers and DV plates may continue using them for a period to be determined and officially announced by the Authority in due course.
The Authority emphasized that the new licence plate rollout will take effect as soon as the required legislative amendments are finalized and approved by Parliament.
The DVLA has assured the public that the rollout of the new RFID-enabled licence plates will proceed as soon as the necessary legislative amendments are finalized. In the meantime, vehicle owners are encouraged to continue using their existing number plates, and to stay updated with further announcements from the Authority.
