How to renew your Driver’s Licence in South Africa

The renewal process involves several steps, each requiring careful preparation to ensure efficiency. Below is a detailed breakdown:

1. Check Your Expiry Date and Set a Reminder
   • The expiry date is printed on your licence card, typically under the licence number. It’s crucial to note this date and set a personal reminder, as postal notifications may not always arrive. Renewing early, at least four weeks before expiry, is recommended to avoid legal issues.
2. Prepare the Necessary Documents
   • The documents required depend on your situation:
     • For a Valid Licence (Not Expired):
       • South African ID book, temporary ID, or passport, plus a copy.
       • Current driver’s licence card.
       • Two to four black-and-white or colour ID photographs (confirm the exact number with your local DLTC, as practices vary; some centres take photos on-site, but bringing your own is safer).
       • Proof of residential address, such as a utility bill. If not in your name, obtain an affidavit from the owner confirming your residence, with the bill attached. For informal settlements, bring a letter with an official date stamp from your ward councillor.
       • The prescribed application fee, which varies by province (approximately R360 as of 2025, but confirm with your DLTC).
     • For an Expired Licence:
       • Same as above, but you’ll need an additional fee for a temporary driver’s licence, costing between R54 and R94, valid for up to a year (previously noted as six months in some sources, so check locally).
     • For a Lost or Stolen Licence:
       • Exclude the current licence card but include a police affidavit stating it was lost or stolen.
       • Same photo and proof requirements, with extra costs for a temporary licence.
   • Ensure all documents are up-to-date, especially proof of address, which should not be older than three months in some cases.
3. Make an Appointment (Where Applicable)
   • In regions like Gauteng and the Eastern Cape, you can book an appointment online through the National Traffic Information System (NATIS) at https://www.natis.gov.za/. This helps avoid long queues and is particularly useful for busy DLTCs. Slots are limited, so book early, and be aware that third-party booking agents exist but can charge high fees, making direct booking preferable.
   • For other areas, you may need to call or visit the DLTC to make an appointment, so check their operating hours and availability.
4. Visit the DLTC for Renewal
   • On the day of your appointment or visit:
     • Complete Forms: Obtain and fill out form DL1 for renewal at the DLTC. If your address or particulars have changed, complete the NCP form for notification of change. Bring a pen, as centres may run out.
     • Undergo an Eye Test: You’ll need to pass a visual acuity test, which can be done at the DLTC or by an optometrist, submitting the report. The eye test is included in the renewal fee at the DLTC, but optometrists may charge separately. If you fail, your licence may not be renewed, or conditions like wearing glasses while driving may be applied.
     • Fingerprint Scanning: Your fingerprints will be scanned as part of the application, requiring an in-person visit.
     • Pay the Fee: Payment is typically cash only, as many DLTCs lack card machines. Ensure you have enough for the renewal fee and any additional costs for a temporary licence if needed.
5. Wait for Processing and Collect Your New Licence
   • Processing takes 4–6 weeks, with notification via SMS or mail when your new card is ready. You can track the status by sending an SMS with your ID number to 33214. If there’s no update after eight weeks, contact your DLTC.
   • To collect, bring your ID and proof of payment. Check the card details for accuracy. If you can’t collect it, authorize someone else by providing a certified copy of your ID, their ID and copy, and an affidavit explaining your absence.

Special Cases and Considerations