PROJECT: DRIVER'S LICENCE RENEWAL CRISIS IN SOUTH AFRICA – KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
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As of May 2025, South Africa's driver's licence system is undergoing significant changes to
address longstanding issues and improve service delivery.
South Africa uses ONE ageing licence card printer that is over 26 years old.
The printer has broken down more than 160 times.
Efforts to replace it are delayed by tender disputes and legal issues.
LICENCE CARD PRINTING RESUMES:
The country's sole driver's licence card printing machine, which had been non-operational since February 5, 2025, is now back online.
The Department of Transport confirmed that printing operations have resumed, aiming to address a substantial backlog of nearly 750,000 licence cards.
To expedite this process, the Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) staff will work extended hours.
The backlog is most significant in Gauteng (252,746), followed by KwaZulu-Natal (115,020) and the Western Cape (108,402).
TENDER CONTROVERSY AND LEGAL CHALLENGES:
Efforts to modernise the licence system by procuring new smart card printing machines have been mired in controversy.
In August 2024, the Department of Transport awarded a R500 million tender to French company Idemia for three new machines.
However, the Auditor-General identified irregularities in the tender process, leading to legal action and a High Court application to block the contract.
Despite these challenges, legal advisors have cautioned that cancelling the tender could result in prolonged legal disputes, potentially delaying the acquisition of new machines for years.
POSSIBLE DIGITAL LICENCES AND EXTENDED VALIDITY:
In response to ongoing issues, there are discussions about transitioning to digital driver's licences accessible via mobile devices.
This move aims to reduce reliance on physical cards and streamline renewal.
Additionally, the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) has advocated extending the validity period of driver's licences from five to ten years.
This change could alleviate administrative burdens and reduce backlogs.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MOTORISTS:
PLAN AHEAD:
Given the backlog, apply for licence renewals well before expiration to avoid delays.
TEMPORARY LICENCES:
If your licence has expired, apply for a temporary licence to remain compliant.
STAY INFORMED:
Monitor official announcements from the Department of Transport for updates on the printing backlog and digital licence initiatives.
While the resumption of license card printing is a positive development, systemic issues persist.
The Department of Transport is exploring interim solutions and long-term reforms to enhance the efficiency
and reliability of the driver's licence system in South Africa.
Thousands of South African motorists are driving with expired licence cards, not because they failed to renew,
but owing to massive backlogs and technical failures
at the Department of Transport.
IF YOU ARE PULLED OVER ON THE ROAD:
1. Stay calm and polite.
2. Show your expired card, renewal receipt, or temporary licence.
3. Take note of the officer's force number, time, location, and date.
4. If you are fined unfairly, report the incident.
According to government regulations, an expired card is still valid for 3 months if you have already applied for renewal.
While traffic officers have discretion, some may not acknowledge system delays unless you proactively present the evidence. Always carry a physical or digital proof of your application or temporary licence.
You have the right to contest the fine if you have been fined due to delays in renewing your driver's licence,
particularly stemming from government-related backlogs or system failures.
AARTO REGIONS (JOHANNESBURG AND PRETORIA):
In areas governed by the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act, such as Johannesburg and Tshwane, follow these steps:
Download the AARTO 08 Representation Form:
Access the form from the Road Traffic Infringement Agency (RTIA) website.
Complete the Form:
Provide detailed information about the infringement and clearly state the reasons for contesting the fine.
Attach Supporting Documents:
Include any evidence that supports your case, such as:
Proof of application for licence renewal.
Receipts or correspondence indicating delays due to system issues.
A copy of your temporary licence, if applicable.
Certification:
Ensure that a Commissioner of Oaths signs the form.
Submit the Representation:
Send the completed form and attachments via the AARTO online portal or deliver them to the nearest AARTO service outlet.
Await Feedback:
The RTIA will review your representation and inform you of the outcome.
If unsuccessful, you may opt to be tried in court.
OTHER MUNICIPALITIES (NON-AARTO REGIONS):
If you are in areas not governed by AARTO, such as Cape Town or Durban, the process differs:
Draft a Formal Letter:
Write a letter to the issuing traffic department or relevant municipal authority, including:
Your personal details and contact information.
Details of the fine (reference number, date, etc.).
A clear explanation of why you are contesting the fine.
Supporting documents as evidence.
Submit the Letter:
Send the letter and attachments via email, post, or in person to the appropriate department.
Contact details are usually provided on the fine notice.
Follow Up:
If you do not receive a response within a reasonable timeframe, follow up with the department to check the status of your appeal.
Court Appearance (if necessary):
If your appeal is unsuccessful or you receive a summons, you may need to appear in court.
Prepare your case and present your evidence to the magistrate.
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