The Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) embedded licence plates, which were scheduled to be introduced by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) from January 2, 2026, has been suspended.
This follows Parliament’s inability to complete the amendments in the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), which provides the legal specifications for vehicle licence plates, before going on recess on Friday, December 19, 2025.
Although Parliament successfully amended the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), the outstanding changes required under L.I. 2180 have made it legally impossible for the DVLA to proceed with the introduction of the new plates.
The Authority, in a statement issued on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, explained that RFID-enabled licence plates were aimed at enhancing vehicle traceability and promote road safety through modern technology.
However, the rollout cannot materialise because Parliament couldn’t complete the full legal framework needed to commence the implementation.
The DVLA has therefore directed that the use of the Departure from Port (DP) stickers and DV licence plates has been extended beyond January 2, 2026. Vehicle owners currently using DP stickers or DV plates are permitted to continue using them until a new deadline is officially communicated.
The Authority assured the public that once the outstanding legislative processes are completed, the rollout of the new license plates will resume.
It expressed gratitude to the public for its understanding of the challenges, and called for continued cooperation as it engages stakeholders to complete the legal processes necessary for the implementation of the new system.
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