New okada rules: Only 25yrs+ riders with licences and union membership can operate

The government of Ghana is introducing new, stricter regulations for the operation of commercial motorcycles and tricycles—popularly known as okada and pragyia—to improve safety and accountability in the sector.

According to the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, as part of the proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180), only persons aged 25 years and above will be allowed to operate commercial motorcycles or tricycles.

Additionally, riders must be employed by or registered with a licensed commercial motorcycle/tricycle union or company to be eligible.

The Minister announced this during a national stakeholder consultation in Accra on Monday, April 7, 2025.

The consultation marked the beginning of a nationwide process to revise the current legislative framework and officially regulate the thriving okada sector.

“Our utmost priority is the safety and welfare of the riders and passengers,” the Minister emphasized.

New Requirements for Riders

Under the draft Legislative Instrument (LI), the following will become mandatory for okada and tricycle operators:

• Must be at least 25 years old
• Must possess a valid national ID
• Must have a commercial rider’s licence issued by the DVLA
• Must pass a proficiency test (including oral, theory, and eye exams)
• Must undergo training and be assigned a unique yellow licence plate
• Must wear a certified protective helmet with a unique number
• Must provide a helmet for passengers
• Must obey all traffic laws and speed regulations

The law also includes strict penalties: Riders who operate outside of licensed unions or companies could face a fine of 100 penalty units, imprisonment, or both.

Motorcycles and tricycles have increasingly become a key part of Ghana’s transport network, especially in areas where conventional vehicles struggle to operate. However, this rise in popularity has come with significant safety concerns.

“We have witnessed increasing road traffic crashes and fatalities involving motorcycles and tricycles. There are also concerns over safety regulations, disregard of road traffic laws, and the pressing need for a structured approach,” Mr. Nikpe noted.

The Transport Ministry is working with stakeholders, including the Ghana Police MTTD, GPRTU, okada rider associations, civil society groups, and other transport operators to finalize the regulatory framework.

3News