The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has announced that driver’s licenses will henceforth expire on the license holder’s date of birth as part of new reforms aimed at improving compliance and service delivery.
The Chief Executive Officer of the DVLA, Mr Julius Neequaye Kotey, made the announcement at a press conference on Friday, January 23, 2026, to mark his first year in office.
He explained that the new policy will be supported by an SMS notification system, which will alert motorists when their driver’s licenses and roadworthiness certificates are due for renewal.
According to Mr Kotey, the reforms are part of broader efforts to modernise DVLA operations, enhance efficiency, and improve revenue mobilisation.
“We have introduced an SMS notification system where people are informed ahead of time when their licence expiration is due,” he said. “Beginning this year, 2026, we are rolling out a new initiative where licence expiration will be tied to your date of birth. So your birthday will be the day your licence expires.”
He added that the same notification system will be extended to roadworthiness certificates, ensuring that vehicle owners receive timely reminders before renewal deadlines.
“So when it’s time for you to renew your roadworthiness certificate, you will receive an SMS informing you of the set date,” Mr Kotey stated.
The DVLA says the initiative is expected to simplify the renewal process, reduce default rates, and enhance overall compliance among motorists.
Source: Graphiconline.