The City of Cape Town advises motorists to continue applying to renew their driving licence cards, in spite of the uncertainty around the production of the cards, which is a national function.

‘The City notes the increasing frustration of some motorists who are awaiting delivery of their driving licence cards. While the situation is entirely out of our control, we will do everything possible to assist the public where possible, and communicate any further developments made public by the National Transport Department with regards to this issue. It is imperative that it is resolved as soon as possible, to avoid further backlogs in future. Already our DLTCs have been working extended hours over the past 18 months to clear the backlogs caused by the hard lockdown in 2020. We can ill afford this latest obstacle,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member  for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.

Driving licence cards are produced by the Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) – a national entity that produces these driving licence cards for Driving Licence Testing Centres around the country.

The machine used in the production of the cards broke down in late November, and is currently abroad for repairs. According to reports, the National Minister of Transport has indicated that the machine will be repaired by March.

Until further updates are received from the National Department, the City advises motorists to continue applying for driving licence card renewals.

In terms of the National Road Traffic Act, an expired driving licence card will remain valid for a period of 3 months from the date of expiry, if a renewal application was made before the expiry date.

The condition for this is that the holder of the licence must be in possession of the expired card and proof of payment.

If the situation is not resolved within the three months, an application can be made for a temporary licence, which is valid for six months, or until the new/replacement driving licence card is issued.

The renewal of a driving licence card AFTER its expiry date will automatically require a temporary licence, which costs R45.

This does not apply to new drivers, who are issued with a temporary licence on successfully completing their licence test.

The City apologises for any inconvenience caused.

Source: City Of Cape Town