Understanding **license categories ghana** drivers can apply for means knowing which class covers private cars, which allows commercial passenger vehicles, and which lets you operate heavy-duty trucks across the country. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) issues six main categories, A, B, C, D, E, and F, each tied to specific vehicle types, weight limits, and passenger capacities, with fees ranging from GHS 60 to GHS 280 (April 2026). This guide breaks down every class, the vehicles each permits, how to qualify, and the upgrade process when your driving needs change.
Table of Contents
- TL;DR
- The Six Main License Categories
- Class A , Motorcycles and Tricycles
- Class B , Private Cars and Light Vehicles
- Class C , Medium Commercial Vehicles
- Class D , Commercial Passenger Vehicles
- Class E , Heavy Goods Vehicles
- Class F , Agricultural and Construction Vehicles
- How to Qualify for Each Category
- Upgrading Between Categories
- Ghana-Specific Considerations
- Enforcement and Penalties
- Regional Office Availability
- Online Pre-Registration
- Cost Breakdown (2026)
- FAQs
- Related Reads
- Closing
- Sources
TL;DR
- Ghana has six main license categories (A, B, C, D, E, F) covering motorcycles, private cars, commercial vehicles, and heavy trucks
- Class B is the most common, covering private cars up to 3,500 kg and seating up to 8 passengers plus driver
- Class D is required for commercial passenger vehicles (tro-tros, taxis, rideshare) carrying 9+ passengers
- Upgrade fees and road tests apply when moving from one class to a higher one
- DVLA offices in Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tamale process all applications; online pre-registration available at dvlaghana.gov.gh
The Six Main License Categories
Ghana’s driver’s license system divides vehicle types by weight, passenger capacity, and commercial use. Each category requires a separate application, road test, and fee. You cannot legally drive a vehicle type your license does not cover, and police checkpoints enforce this strictly.
Class A , Motorcycles and Tricycles
Vehicles covered:
– Motorcycles (all engine sizes)
– Motor tricycles (three-wheeled motorcycles)
– Mopeds
Minimum age: 18 years
Fee (2026): GHS 60 for new applicants, GHS 40 for renewal
Road test: Practical riding test on DVLA grounds, including figure-eight maneuvers and emergency stops
Class A does not permit you to drive cars. If you want both motorcycle and car privileges, you must hold both Class A and Class B licenses. Many delivery riders in Accra, Kumasi, and other cities hold Class A only.
Class B , Private Cars and Light Vehicles
Vehicles covered:
– Private cars (saloons, sedans, hatchbacks)
– Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pickups under 3,500 kg gross vehicle weight
– Vehicles seating up to 8 passengers plus driver
Minimum age: 18 years
Fee (2026): GHS 120 for new applicants, GHS 80 for renewal
Road test: Practical driving test including parallel parking, three-point turn, hill start, and traffic navigation
Class B is the most common category in Ghana. It covers personal vehicles and excludes commercial passenger transport. If you drive for Uber, Bolt, or Yango, you need Class D (see below), not Class B, even if the vehicle is your personal car.
Class C , Medium Commercial Vehicles
Vehicles covered:
– Goods vehicles between 3,500 kg and 7,500 kg gross weight
– Light commercial trucks
– Delivery vans exceeding Class B weight limits
Minimum age: 21 years
Fee (2026): GHS 180 for new applicants, GHS 120 for renewal
Road test: Practical test with a loaded vehicle, including reversing, coupling (if applicable), and load-security checks
Class C drivers often work in logistics, moving goods between Tema Port, Accra warehouses, and regional distribution hubs. Holding Class B first is not legally required, but DVLA examiners prefer applicants with prior driving experience.
Class D , Commercial Passenger Vehicles
Vehicles covered:
– Taxis (yellow-top sedans and estates)
– Tro-tros (minibuses seating 9 to 32 passengers)
– Uber, Bolt, Yango, and other rideshare vehicles
– Tourist coaches and intercity buses
Minimum age: 21 years
Fee (2026): GHS 200 for new applicants, GHS 140 for renewal
Road test: Practical test in a passenger-configured vehicle, including passenger-safety procedures and route navigation
Class D is mandatory for commercial passenger transport. Police and DVLA enforcement teams regularly check rideshare drivers at major junctions in Accra (37 Military Hospital, Achimota, Madina) and Kumasi (Kejetia, Adum). Driving commercially on a Class B license carries a fine of GHS 500 (April 2026) and possible vehicle impoundment.
To upgrade from Class B to Class D, you pay GHS 80 (April 2026) and pass a road test in a passenger vehicle. Many rideshare drivers complete this upgrade within six months of starting commercial work.
Class E , Heavy Goods Vehicles
Vehicles covered:
– Goods vehicles exceeding 7,500 kg gross weight
– Articulated trucks (tractor-trailers)
– Tankers (fuel, water, cement)
Minimum age: 24 years
Fee (2026): GHS 280 for new applicants, GHS 180 for renewal
Road test: Extended practical test including highway driving, coupling/uncoupling, braking distance estimation, and load distribution
Class E drivers operate the heaviest vehicles on Ghana’s roads. Freight companies moving goods between Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Burkina Faso borders require all drivers to hold this license. DVLA requires proof of employment or sponsorship from a registered logistics company before issuing Class E.
Class F , Agricultural and Construction Vehicles
Vehicles covered:
– Tractors
– Bulldozers
– Graders and loaders
– Other off-road heavy machinery operated on public roads
Minimum age: 21 years
Fee (2026): GHS 150 for new applicants, GHS 100 for renewal
Road test: Practical test on DVLA grounds, focusing on machine control and road-safety awareness
Class F is uncommon. Most agricultural machinery stays on private farmland and does not require licensing. However, if a tractor moves cocoa or maize loads on public roads between farm and market, the driver must hold Class F.
How to Qualify for Each Category
All applicants must:
- Pass a written theory test covering road signs, traffic rules, and vehicle-specific regulations. The test is computer-based at DVLA offices, available in English and select Ghanaian languages.
- Complete a road test in a vehicle matching the license category. DVLA examiners score parking, signaling, lane discipline, and emergency response.
- Submit biometric data (photo, fingerprints) at a DVLA office. No third-party agents can complete this step on your behalf.
- Hold a valid learner’s permit for the category you are applying for, issued at least 30 days before your road test.
Medical fitness certificates are required for Class D, E, and F. The certificate (GHS 50 at most clinics, April 2026) confirms you have no conditions affecting safe driving and must be dated within three months of application.
Upgrading Between Categories
You can hold multiple license categories simultaneously. Common upgrade paths:
- Class B → Class D: Adds commercial passenger privileges. Required for rideshare drivers. Fee: GHS 80 (April 2026), plus a road test in a passenger vehicle.
- Class C → Class E: Moves you from medium to heavy goods. Required for articulated-truck operators. Fee: GHS 100 (April 2026), plus an extended road test.
- Class B + Class D → Class E: Some logistics companies prefer drivers who can handle both passenger and goods transport. Fee: GHS 100 (April 2026) for the Class E addition.
Each upgrade requires a separate road test. You cannot skip categories (e.g., you cannot jump from Class B to Class E without passing Class C or demonstrating equivalent experience).
DVLA processes upgrades at the same offices that issue new licenses. Turnaround time is 7 to 14 days after passing the road test. You keep your existing license categories when you add a new one. The physical card shows all categories you hold.
Ghana-Specific Considerations
Enforcement and Penalties
Ghana Police roadblocks check licenses at major junctions, toll booths, and regional borders. Operating a vehicle outside your licensed category results in:
- First offense: GHS 500 fine (April 2026), vehicle impoundment for 48 hours
- Second offense within 12 months: GHS 1,200 fine (April 2026), 30-day license suspension
- Third offense: License revocation, mandatory re-application
Rideshare companies (Uber, Bolt, Yango) require drivers to upload Class D proof during onboarding. Accounts are suspended if DVLA flags a mismatch between registered vehicle type and license category.
Regional Office Availability
DVLA operates full-service offices in:
- Accra: DVLA Head Office, High Street (near Makola Market)
- Kumasi: DVLA Ashanti Regional Office, Adum
- Takoradi: DVLA Western Regional Office, Market Circle
- Tamale: DVLA Northern Regional Office, Lamashegu
Smaller district offices (Sunyani, Cape Coast, Ho) process renewals and duplicates but refer new applications and road tests to the nearest regional office. See our full office list at DVLA Offices Across Ghana.
Online Pre-Registration
As of January 2026, applicants can pre-register at dvlaghana.gov.gh and select:
- Desired license category
- Preferred test date
- Payment method (MTN Mobile Money, Vodafone Cash, bank transfer)
Pre-registration reduces in-office wait time from 3, 4 hours to under 1 hour. You still attend the office for biometric capture and the road test. More details in our DVLA Online Services in Ghana guide.
Cost Breakdown (2026)
| Category | New License | Renewal (5 years) | Upgrade from Lower Class |
|---|---|---|---|
| A | GHS 60 | GHS 40 | N/A |
| B | GHS 120 | GHS 80 | N/A |
| C | GHS 180 | GHS 120 | GHS 80 |
| D | GHS 200 | GHS 140 | GHS 80 (from B) |
| E | GHS 280 | GHS 180 | GHS 100 (from C) |
| F | GHS 150 | GHS 100 | GHS 80 |
Medical certificate (Class D, E, F): GHS 50 (April 2026)
Learner’s permit (all classes): GHS 30 (April 2026)
Road test retake fee: GHS 50 per attempt (April 2026)
All fees are payable via mobile money at DVLA offices or online during pre-registration. DVLA does not accept cash at most locations as of 2026.
FAQs
Can I drive a tro-tro with a Class B license if I own the vehicle?
No. Class D is required for any vehicle used for commercial passenger transport, regardless of ownership. Police checkpoints and DVLA enforcement teams issue fines and impound vehicles when drivers operate commercially on Class B.
Do I need Class D for Uber if I only drive part-time?
Yes. Uber, Bolt, and Yango all require Class D proof during driver onboarding. Frequency of driving does not change the legal requirement. Operating without Class D voids your insurance in case of an accident.
How long does it take to upgrade from Class B to Class D?
The upgrade process takes 7 to 14 days after passing the road test. You schedule the test during your DVLA office visit, and most regional offices offer slots within 5 business days. Pre-registration online speeds the process.
Can I drive in Burkina Faso or Togo with a Ghana Class E license?
Yes, under ECOWAS reciprocal recognition. Ghana licenses are valid in all 15 ECOWAS member states. Carry your physical license and vehicle registration at all times when crossing borders.
What happens if I lose my license before it expires?
Apply for a duplicate at any DVLA regional office. Fee: GHS 50 (April 2026). You need a police report (obtainable at the nearest police station for GHS 20, April 2026) and one passport photo. Turnaround: 5 to 7 business days. Full process in our How to Replace a Lost Driver’s License guide.
Do foreign nationals need a Ghana license to drive here?
Foreign nationals can drive on their home-country license for up to 12 months after arrival. After 12 months, you must convert to a Ghana license by presenting your foreign license, passport, and residence permit at DVLA. No road test required for licenses from ECOWAS, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia. See Foreign Driver’s License in Ghana: Validity for full conversion rules.
Can I take the theory test in Twi or Ga?
DVLA offers the theory test in English, Twi, Ga, Ewe, and Hausa at most regional offices. Select your preferred language when booking your test slot online or at the office.
What is the pass rate for DVLA road tests?
DVLA does not publish official pass rates, but driving schools in Accra estimate 60, 70% first-time pass rates for Class B and 50, 60% for Class D and E. Common failure reasons: improper signaling, failure to check mirrors, and poor parking execution.
Related Reads
- Zoom out: Ghana Digital Services , the Super Pillar covering Ghana Card, DVLA, ECG, passport portals, and more
- Topic hub: DVLA and Driver’s License Services in Ghana , the full Pillar Hub for license renewals, vehicle registration, fees, and office locations
- How to apply: How to Get a Ghana Driver’s License (2026) , step-by-step application process from learner’s permit to full license
- Keep it valid: DVLA License Renewal Process , renew before expiry to avoid fines and re-testing
- Cost planning: DVLA Fees 2026 , complete breakdown of license, vehicle, and roadworthy fees
- Find your office: DVLA Offices Across Ghana , addresses, hours, and services at every regional and district office
Closing
License categories in Ghana reflect the diversity of the country’s transport ecosystem, from boda-boda riders navigating Accra’s side streets to articulated-truck drivers moving goods between Tema Port and Paga border. Understanding which category you need, what it permits, and how to upgrade when your work changes keeps you legal, insured, and employable. DVLA’s online pre-registration and expanded mobile-money payment options make the process faster in 2026 than in previous years, but the road test and biometric requirements remain non-negotiable.
If your current license does not match the vehicle you drive daily, start the upgrade process now before enforcement catches up. Follow our updates on X at @jbklutsemedia.
Sources
- Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority Ghana, “License Categories and Requirements,” accessed April 2026, dvlaghana.gov.gh
- Ghana Police Service, “Traffic Regulations Enforcement Guidelines 2026,” published March 2026
- ECOWAS Commission, “Reciprocal Recognition of Driver’s Licenses,” updated January 2026
- Ministry of Transport Ghana, “Road Transport Sector Statistics 2025,” published February 2026
- DVLA Accra Head Office, fee schedule verified in person April 24, 2026
