CUTS challenges DVLA over expired licence delinquency charges

The consumer advocacy group CUTS is challenging the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) in Ghana over delinquency charges imposed on individuals with expired driving licences.

CUTS argues that the DVLA is incorrectly treating every person with a lapsed licence as an offender. According to the group, Regulation 46(8) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2026 (LI 2519) stipulates that it is an offence to drive with an expired licence, but does not criminalize the mere possession of an expired one. The group contends that many individuals, such as professionals or those using chauffeurs, may hold expired licences without having driven during the lapse period.

In response, the DVLA issued a clarification stating that licence holders bear the responsibility to ensure their licences remain active at all times and that a licence should ‘at no point’ be allowed to expire. CUTS maintains that this position lacks legal backing and fails to account for circumstances where a person has no immediate need to drive.