Under New Law, Police Officers Cannot Stop Drivers to Demand Driving Licence, MTTD Boss Alexander

Motorists in Ghana may benefit from changes to traffic enforcement procedures that could limit routine stops solely for driving licence inspections, according to Alexander Obeng, Director of the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) of the Ghana Police Service.

In a report published by Dailyviewgh, Obeng explained that a new legal provision has changed how traffic officers are expected to conduct certain checks, particularly when requesting driving licences during routine road operations. The change has drawn attention to the circumstances under which officers may require motorists to produce their documents.

Obeng urged drivers to familiarise themselves with the revised rules to understand their rights and responsibilities while using public roads. He indicated that the changes are intended to improve the efficiency of traffic enforcement and reduce unnecessary interruptions for motorists.

However, the MTTD director clarified that the provision should not be interpreted as removing drivers’ legal obligation to possess and produce valid driving documents whenever the law requires them to do so. Motorists may still be asked to present their licences under circumstances permitted by the applicable regulations.

Drivers are therefore expected to comply with lawful instructions from police officers, even as enforcement procedures evolve. The reported change concerns how certain checks are conducted rather than granting motorists unrestricted freedom to refuse every request for documentation.

Obeng also emphasised the importance of keeping driving licences and other relevant vehicle documents valid and up to date. Motorists who are uncertain about the legality or purpose of a particular request were encouraged to seek clarification calmly instead of allowing disagreements to escalate into confrontations.

The development could influence interactions between traffic officers and motorists during routine operations across Ghana. Understanding the specific provisions of the law will be important in helping drivers distinguish between checks that are permitted and situations in which they may have grounds to question an officer’s request.

The reported changes also highlight the importance of public education whenever traffic regulations or enforcement procedures are revised. Clear information can help prevent misunderstandings, reduce disputes on the roads and ensure that motorists continue to meet their legal obligations.

Although the announcement may offer greater clarity about routine licence inspections, drivers should avoid assuming that police officers have lost the authority to request their documents altogether. Their responsibilities remain in place, and the circumstances governing lawful checks will determine what motorists are required to do.

Obeng’s explanation is likely to attract interest among drivers nationwide as they seek to understand how the revised provision affects everyday road use. Familiarity with the applicable rules will help motorists respond appropriately during traffic operations while maintaining compliance with Ghana’s road traffic laws.