BY Issah Olegor
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced the suspension of its road compliance enforcement exercise involving fines imposed by its Compliance Team on the spot.
The decision, which takes effect from Wednesday, October 15, 2025, follows widespread public criticism and concerns over the implementation of the initiative.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, the DVLA said all activities of its Compliance Team related to fines on the country’s roads have been put on hold until further notice.
The Authority explained that the move is to allow for broader stakeholder engagement and public education on the rationale behind the exercise before it is reintroduced.
The compliance enforcement initiative, which was launched earlier this year, sought to strengthen regulatory adherence among vehicle owners and drivers.
Under the programme, DVLA officers were deployed onto major highways and checkpoints to ensure that all vehicles complied with licensing, insurance, and roadworthiness requirements.
Drivers found to be in breach of these laws were subjected to on-the-spot fines.
However, the exercise quickly drew criticism from sections of the public and transport operators who accused the Authority of high-handedness, arbitrary fines, and poor public sensitization.
Many drivers claimed that the enforcement process lacked transparency and that the fines were imposed without proper receipts or due process.
According to the DVLA, the suspension is meant to address these concerns through “extended engagement and education,” ensuring that the motoring public fully understands the legal implications of non-compliance before the enforcement returns.
“The Authority remains committed to ensuring safety on our roads,” the statement said, “but we equally appreciate the need for the public to be adequately educated to appreciate the responsibilities that come with driving and owning vehicles.”
The DVLA clarified that while the activities of the Compliance Team have been suspended, the legal requirements for drivers and vehicles to operate on the roads remain in full force.
This means all drivers must still possess valid licenses, and all vehicles must be duly registered, insured, and roadworthy in accordance with the law.
The Authority encouraged motorists to take advantage of the suspension period to regularize their vehicle documentation and renew expired licenses to avoid future penalties once the enforcement exercise resumes.
