DVLA to introduce biometric international licenses in 2026
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced plans to roll out biometric International Driver’s Licences (IDLs) and International Vehicle Permits (IVPs) in 2026 as part of efforts to modernize its operations and enhance the global credibility of Ghanaian-issued documents.
The upgrade is expected to address recurring challenges faced by some Ghanaian travellers whose current IDLs and IVPs are occasionally rejected abroad due to noncompliance with international verification standards.
DVLA Chief Executive Officer, Julius Neequaye Kotey, said the new biometric versions will feature advanced security elements, including a bio-data page that meets the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) requirements. This will make them fully compatible with global recognition systems and improve the ease of verification in other countries.
According to the DVLA, the initiative marks a significant step in strengthening Ghana’s digital transport infrastructure and ensuring that the country’s driving credentials meet the same technological standards as those in other advanced jurisdictions. The biometric upgrade also aligns with DVLA’s broader digital transformation agenda aimed at curbing document fraud and enhancing service delivery.
The new biometric documents will be available at all DVLA offices nationwide starting in 2026.
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