DVLA To Introduce Temporary Celebratory Number Plates In Ghana

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has planned to introduce temporary celebratory number plates that will allow motorists to legally display messages such as “Just Married,” “Called to the Bar,” and other approved inscriptions.

The move is intended to curb the widespread use of unauthorised personalised plates that many vehicle owners currently attach to mark weddings, professional achievements and other special occasions.

DVLA Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye Kotey said the practice of writing celebratory messages on number plates is currently illegal because plates must follow approved identification formats.

Rather than banning the custom outright, the authority will offer an official temporary alternative.

"You know, sometimes people write these things on their number plates, 'Just Married', 'Rest in Peace', 'Gone Forever' and those other things. They are not legal," he said.

Under the new system, motorists will be able to apply for and pay for special ceremonial plates that are valid for a short period, reportedly about one week.

"We are now making it legal for you. Just come for it. You pay for it. It's just one week," he stated.

Approved messages are expected to include “Just Married” for newlyweds and “Called to the Bar” for newly qualified lawyers, among others.

"So when someone graduates, passes out and gets called to the Bar, we can have 'Called to the Bar' or 'Fresh Lawyer' on the vehicle," he added.

A sample image released with the announcement shows a white “JUST MARRIED” plate for the Greater Accra region, complete with a Ghana flag and regional coding.

The initiative forms part of broader efforts by the DVLA to modernise vehicle registration while balancing public demand for personalisation during major life events.

Further details on the application process and exact fees are expected to be released soon.