The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has suspended the planned rollout of the new Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) embedded licence plates, which were scheduled to take effect from January 2, 2026.
The suspension follows Parliament’s inability to complete amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), which provides the legal specifications for vehicle licence plates, before it went on recess on Friday, December 19, 2025.
Although Parliament successfully amended the Road Traffic Act, 2004 (Act 683), the outstanding changes required under L.I. 2180 have made it legally impossible for the DVLA to proceed with the introduction of the new plates.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 24, the DVLA explained that the RFID-enabled licence plates were intended to enhance vehicle traceability and promote road safety through modern technology, but the full legal framework needed for implementation is yet to be completed.
As a result of the suspension, the Authority announced the extended use of existing Departure from Port (DP) stickers and DV licence plates beyond January 2, 2026. Vehicle owners currently using DP stickers or DV plates are permitted to continue using them until a new deadline is officially communicated.
The DVLA assured the public that the rollout of the new licence plates will resume as soon as all outstanding legislative requirements are addressed.
The Authority thanked the public for their understanding and called for continued cooperation as it works with stakeholders to complete the legal processes necessary for the implementation of the new system.
Click here to read the statement by DVLA
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