Hot SourceThe Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced plans to introduce biometric International Driver’s Licenses (IDLs) and International Vehicle Permits (IVPs) from 2026, as part of efforts to align Ghana’s transport documentation with global standards.
The initiative was confirmed by DVLA Chief Executive, Julius Neequaye Kotei, who said the upgrade is intended to meet requirements under the United Nations Vienna Convention on Road Traffic and eliminate persistent challenges faced by Ghanaian drivers abroad.
According to the DVLA, some Ghana-issued IDLs and IVPs have been rejected in foreign jurisdictions due to credibility and verification concerns. The new biometric versions will feature a biodata page carrying personal identification tied to biometric information, making the documents machine-readable and compliant with international security protocols.
DVLA says the upcoming documents will also comply with ISO standards, ensuring interoperability and real-time verification across borders. They will be designed to resist tampering, forgery or fraudulent alterations, improving their acceptance abroad.
The Authority plans to roll out the new system across all DVLA centres nationwide from 2026, with provisions for Ghanaians living abroad to apply through designated channels. Ahead of the rollout, the DVLA will embark on a nationwide public education campaign to sensitise drivers on the new requirements and application procedures.
Officials believe the biometric upgrade will simplify cross-border travel for Ghanaian motorists, enhance international confidence in Ghana’s transport credentials and bring the country in line with evolving global transport and security standards.
CEO Julius Kotei said the initiative forms part of a broader vision to modernise Ghana’s legal and travel infrastructure and position the country’s licensing framework for international credibility.
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