MTTD Clarifies Driver’s License Rules: No Need to Surrender Original Licences During Routine Checks
Police Officers Can Verify Licences Without Demanding the Physical Document, MTTD Confirms
- Drivers are not required to hand over their original licenses during routine traffic stops.
- Police can verify the validity of a driver’s license without confiscating the original document.
- The clarification aims to promote understanding of motorists' rights and reduce disputes during traffic enforcement.
The Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service has issued a clarification regarding the rules for driver’s license verification during routine traffic stops.
According to Alexander Kwaku Obeng, the Head of Research, Education, and Training at the MTTD, drivers are not obliged to surrender their original driver’s licenses to police officers during standard checks.
He emphasized that the updated regulations do not grant police the authority to demand the physical presentation of the original license solely for verification purposes.
Mr. Obeng shared this information in a TikTok video posted on August 7, 2026, as part of an initiative to educate motorists about their rights and responsibilities under the new traffic rules.
He highlighted the importance of understanding the distinction between license verification and the unnecessary seizure of original documents during routine inspections.
While police officers are permitted to verify the validity of a driver’s license, this process does not require drivers to hand over their original license unless there is a lawful reason. The clarification aims to prevent misunderstandings and ensure motorists are aware of their rights during traffic stops.
Mr. Obeng urged drivers to familiarize themselves with the updated regulations, cooperate with law enforcement officers during lawful checks, and know that they are not required to surrender their original licenses without proper legal basis.
This clarification comes amid ongoing efforts to improve road safety and ensure responsible driving. The MTTD continues to advise motorists to carry valid driving documents and comply with lawful instructions from traffic officers.
However, they also emphasize that enforcement should adhere to established procedures, and drivers should remain calm and seek clarification if they are unsure about any aspect of traffic enforcement.
