Drivers’ Union Petitions Transport Minister, Demands Immediate End to DVLA Spot Fines

The Ghana Committed Drivers Association (GCDA) has taken a strong stand against what it describes as the unlawful imposition of “spot fines” by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), calling on the Transport Minister to immediately intervene.

In June 2025, the DVLA’s Compliance and Enforcement Unit rolled out a new enforcement regime, issuing a public notice titled “Roadside Checks Defects and Infractions, Delinquency Fees and Charges.” The notice referenced the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180), and introduced a flat delinquency fee of GH¢225 for a range of alleged road infractions. Since then, drivers across the country have been subjected to on-the-spot penalties under the directive.

But according to the GCDA, the DVLA has overstepped its mandate. In a statement signed by its Chairman, Charles Danso, the Association argued that a “careful reading” of the law does not grant the DVLA the authority to impose or collect fines of any kind.

“The imposition of any fee or fine by the DVLA on non-compliant drivers is without legal basis. The DVLA has no mandate whatsoever to impose penalties under the guise of delinquency fees,” the GCDA stated.

The Association revealed that it has formally petitioned the Minister for Transport, urging him to issue an immediate directive to the DVLA to suspend the practice. The petition also demands the establishment of a transparent mechanism to refund all monies collected from drivers since the enforcement exercise began.

Beyond the legal argument, the GCDA emphasised its commitment to road safety advocacy, stressing that while drivers must be held accountable for misconduct, such accountability must remain within the confines of the law.

“As an association representing thousands of professional and private drivers across the country, we stand firmly for discipline and safety on the roads. But regulation must not be abused, and drivers must not be made to bear the brunt of unlawful practices,” Mr Danso added.

The GCDA’s intervention adds to growing tensions between drivers and regulatory authorities over enforcement practices, with many road users expressing frustration at what they view as harassment and arbitrary charges.

The ball, according to the Association, is now in the court of the Transport Minister, who must “restore legality and fairness” in Ghana’s road transport regulatory space.

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