DVLA halts introduction of new vehicle licence plates

The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has suspended the planned rollout of the new vehicle licence plates, which was scheduled to begin on January 2, 2026, due to unresolved legal and legislative issues.

In a statement, the Authority explained that although Parliament amended the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), the accompanying amendment to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180)—which governs the design and specifications of licence plates—was not passed before Parliament adjourned on Friday, December 19, 2025. This has left the legal framework required for the implementation of the new plates incomplete.

The DVLA said the new licence plates are intended to incorporate advanced features, including Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, to improve vehicle traceability, enhance road safety, and strengthen law enforcement.

In addition to the legislative setback, the rollout has been further complicated by a court injunction filed by the Vehicle and Asset Management Group (VEMAG), an association of transport operators and industry stakeholders. VEMAG has raised concerns about the implementation process, particularly regarding procurement procedures and stakeholder consultation, and has asked the court to restrain the DVLA from proceeding until the case is fully resolved.

The injunction has imposed additional legal constraints on the Authority, even as efforts continue to address the outstanding regulatory requirements.

In the meantime, the DVLA has assured the public that vehicles currently using Departure from Port (DP) stickers and DV plates may continue to operate legally.

“Owners of vehicles with DP stickers and DV plates can continue to use them until a specific deadline is officially communicated by the Authority,” the statement said.