Drivers across Ghana could soon notice a major change during police inspections as the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service announces a new approach to checking driver’s licences.
Under the updated procedure, motorists will no longer be required to physically hand over their licences to police officers during routine roadside checks. Instead, drivers will only need to show the licence for verification.
The explanation was given by Chief Superintendent Alexander Kwaku Obeng, Director of Education, Research and Training at the MTTD, who said the move is part of efforts to modernise traffic enforcement and reduce unnecessary interactions between drivers and officers.
Why the Change Is Being Introduced
For years, many drivers have complained about the practice where police officers collect or seize licences during road checks, especially when a driver is suspected of committing a traffic offence. In most cases, motorists had to visit police stations later to retrieve their licences after paying fines or appearing in court.
MTTD officials say the new approach is meant to eliminate this inconvenience and make roadside checks faster and more transparent.
By allowing drivers to simply display their licences, authorities hope to reduce disputes between motorists and officers and also minimize situations where licences are withheld for long periods.
What Happens If a Driver Commits an Offence
Although drivers will no longer hand over their licences, police officers will still have full authority to enforce traffic laws.
If a motorist is found to have committed an offence:
- The driver’s details will be recorded.
- The offence may be processed through court summons or other legal procedures.
- Officers will no longer rely on confiscating the licence as the main enforcement method.
Drivers Must Still Carry Their Licences
MTTD officials stress that the rule does not mean drivers can travel without licences. Motorists must still carry valid licences at all times and be ready to present them for inspection whenever police request them.
Authorities believe the new system will make traffic enforcement more efficient, less confrontational, and better aligned with modern policing practices on Ghana’s roads.
