Ashanti Regional DVLA Boss Vows Clampdown on Fake Licensing Operations by Private Garages

The newly appointed Ashanti Regional Manager of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA), Mr. Jerry Edem Aflabo, has issued a strong warning to the public against engaging with private garages that falsely claim to offer driver licensing services.

In his first official media briefing since taking office, Mr. Aflabo stated unequivocally that all licensing-related services—including the issuance and renewal of driver’s licenses—fall exclusively under the mandate of the DVLA. He stressed that no private garage or external facility has been authorized to perform such functions. “It has come to our attention that some private garages are misleading the public into believing they can issue driver’s licenses. Let me be clear: these claims are false and illegal,” Mr. Aflabo emphasized.

He clarified that certain private garages operate under the DVLA’s oversight as Private Vehicle Test Stations (PVTS), but their responsibilities are limited to conducting vehicle inspections for new registrations and preparing roadworthiness reports. They are not authorized to handle any aspect of driver licensing.

Mr. Aflabo warned that garages found engaging in unauthorized DVLA-related activities would face swift and decisive action, including facility closures and revocation of any operational agreements with the Authority. “We will not tolerate activities that undermine the integrity of DVLA services. The public deserves transparent, legal, and professional service delivery,” he added.

Reaffirming the Authority’s commitment to quality service, Mr. Aflabo assured residents in the Ashanti Region that his administration will focus on improving service efficiency, reducing wait times, and eliminating fraudulent practices from the system. “We are here to serve the public better. Anyone seeking licensing services should deal directly with the DVLA. Do not risk your money or safety with unapproved agents.”

The DVLA is urging the public to report any suspicious or unauthorized operations to the nearest DVLA office or through official channels. Vehicle owners and drivers are also reminded to rely solely on DVLA-accredited centers for all licensing and registration services to ensure validity and avoid exploitation.