By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has integrated six Ghanaian languages into its Computer-Based Test (CBT) platform to make the driver’s licence examination more accessible to applicants who have difficulty reading or writing English.
The Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Mr Julius Neequaye Kotey, announced the development during the Government Accountability Series press briefing held at the Jubilee House in Accra.
The initiative is aimed at removing language barriers in the driver licensing process and ensuring that applicants can better understand questions on road signs, traffic regulations and safe driving practices before obtaining their licences.
Under the new arrangement, applicants can take their mandatory driving theory examination in any of six approved languages: Twi, Ga, Ewe, Dagbani, Nzema and Hausa.
The upgraded CBT platform uses translation software, voice-over technology and a touchscreen interface to enable applicants to listen to examination questions in their preferred language and select their answers directly on the screen.
The introduction of the local languages is expected to make the licensing process more inclusive, particularly for people who may have the practical skills to drive but face difficulties understanding written English.
Beyond improving accessibility, the initiative is intended to help prospective drivers develop a better understanding of road safety requirements and traffic rules. A clearer understanding of these regulations is essential to responsible driving and the protection of other road users.
The DVLA has also indicated that plans are underway to expand the platform to accommodate additional Ghanaian languages in the future.
DVLA introduces SMS licence renewal reminders
In addition to the language integration, the authority announced digital measures designed to improve compliance among drivers and vehicle owners.
Under the new system, holders of driver’s licences will receive SMS reminders ahead of their licence expiration dates to help them renew their documents on time.
The first text message will be sent one month before the licence expires, while a second reminder will be issued two weeks before the deadline.
The automated notification system is expected to reduce the likelihood of drivers forgetting their renewal dates and continuing to use expired licences.
The DVLA is also developing a similar notification system for vehicle roadworthiness certificates. When implemented, the system will alert vehicle owners when their certificates are approaching their renewal dates.
The planned roadworthiness alerts are expected to help vehicle owners meet their legal obligations and ensure that their vehicles undergo the required roadworthiness checks.
Digital reforms to improve service delivery
The introduction of local languages and automated renewal reminders forms part of efforts to improve the accessibility and efficiency of the DVLA’s services through technology.
While the language feature seeks to address difficulties faced by applicants who are not proficient in English, the SMS notification system is intended to promote timely renewals and better compliance with licensing requirements.
The effectiveness of the reforms will depend on their implementation and the extent to which applicants and licence holders are able to access and use the services.
With plans to add more local languages and develop further digital notifications, the DVLA is seeking to make the driver licensing process more accessible while encouraging greater awareness of road safety and vehicle compliance requirements.
