The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has introduced six Ghanaian languages into its computer-based driving test system to help applicants who cannot read or write in English, Chief Executive Officer Julius Neequaye Kotey has announced.
Speaking at the Government Accountability Series on Monday, October 12, 2026, Mr Kotey said the initiative was designed to remove language barriers and enable applicants to demonstrate their understanding of road signs, traffic regulations and safe driving practices.
He explained that the Computer-Based Testing (CBT) platform uses translation software to allow applicants to take mandatory driving tests in six local languages, with plans underway to expand the number of languages available.
“We call it CBT Platform to assist applicants who cannot read or write in English. The translation software allows applicants to take mandatory driving tests in six local languages,” he said.
“This initiative is intended to reduce language barriers and help applicants demonstrate their knowledge of road signs, traffic regulations and safe driving practices. We are working on increasing the number of local languages in this regard,” he added.
Mr Kotey also announced the introduction of an SMS notification system to remind driving licence holders about upcoming renewal or replacement deadlines.
According to him, the system sends reminders one month and two weeks before a licence expires, provided the mobile number supplied during the application process remains unchanged.
“This is done a month before expiry, and then the last message is sent two weeks before the date of expiry. For every customer whose mobile number used during the licence application has not changed, they must be qualified to receive such notifications,” he said.
The DVLA chief executive further disclosed that the authority was developing a similar notification system for vehicle roadworthiness renewals to alert vehicle owners when their certificates are due for renewal.
“Work is currently ongoing to deploy a similar system for vehicle road worthy renewal services as well. We will soon prompt clients on their due dates for road worthy renewals,” he stated.
In another initiative aimed at improving road safety, the authority is introducing an electronic library system at its offices to provide clients with access to driver refresher courses and road safety videos.
Mr Kotey said the facility would allow visitors to watch educational materials designed to improve their driving skills and promote safer behaviour on the roads.
“We are also introducing an electronic library system which would allow clients to walk into our offices to take some time to watch driver refresher and safety videos that enhance their driving skills on the roads,” he said.
The initiatives form part of the DVLA’s efforts to improve service delivery, make licensing procedures more accessible and encourage responsible driving among motorists in Ghana.
