The Ghana Police Service has rolled out a major policy shift under the leadership of IGP Christian Tetteh Yohuno, and it’s one that drivers across the country will likely welcome.
According to the new directive, police officers are no longer permitted to demand or seize your physical driver’s
license during routine traffic stops.
If your documentation needs to be verified, you may simply provide your license number, the actual card stays in your pocket .
The move is part of broader efforts to reduce direct interactions between motorists and officers, minimize opportunities for bribery, and cut down on unnecessary delays at checkpoints.
Officers have been explicitly warned against taking bribes or wasting drivers’ time with pointless procedures .
This policy aligns with IGP Yohuno’s “zero tolerance” stance on corruption within the service.
He has previously warned the public against attempting to bribe officers, stating that anyone who tries “will be disgraced” because officers are now motivated by merit-based promotions rather than illicit gains .
The new system is supported by technology, officers can access driver details through an interface once you provide your license number.
It’s part of a broader digital enforcement initiative called Trafitec GH, which uses cameras and scanners to monitor traffic violations and issue electronic notices.
For drivers who’ve experienced the frustration of arbitrary license seizures or demands for “something small,” this change is a breath of fresh air. As one motorist put it,
“Finally, a policy that respects the driver.”
