Why Your Driver’s Licence Renewal Receipt Matters

In case you didn’t know, South Africa’s only machine for printing driving licences is finally up and running again – some good news after months of delays. The breakdown caused an extensive backlog, with many South Africans still waiting for their new licences. Most of the delays hit places like Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Western Cape the hardest. Which means that South Africa’s driver’s licence card crisis isn’t quite over yet. 

While the country’s only licence card printer is finally back up and running, the Department of Transport is still looking for a temporary solution to help deal with the massive backlog — over 747,000 cards are still stuck in the system. The printer itself has a long history of trouble, reportedly breaking down 160 times. Unsurprising to some, it’s now being questioned for not meeting current security standards. 

Transport spokesperson Collen Msibi told SABC that the department was working with the machine’s supplier to carry out repairs. At the time, he added that key components need to be repaired in France since the necessary replacement parts aren’t available in South Africa.

In the meantime, civil group OUTA is calling for bigger changes — like replacing the machine entirely and extending licence validity to 10 years. Although a tender was awarded to Idemia and Security South Africa to supply a new printer, the deal has hit a legal snag after the Auditor-General flagged some issues in the procurement process. 

Until the court makes a decision, the department is trying to find a stopgap solution to keep things moving. In addition to this, the Department of Transport is putting in extra hours to speed things along. But fixing the mess is going to take some time. 

Proof of Driver’s Licence Receipt: What it Really Means

South Africa’s only driver’s licence printer has reportedly broken down 160 times over the years — and its latest, lengthy failure left many motorists frustrated, calling the delays unfair and inconvenient.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) last month, the government stated that because of the backlog, anyone who renewed their licence before it expired should “keep their receipt as proof”. 

When and Where to Renew your Drivers Licence 

In South Africa, your driver’s licence card is valid for five years. It’s best to start the renewal process at least four weeks before your card expires to avoid extra fees or the hassle of getting a temporary licence. If your licence has already expired, you’ll need to apply for a temporary driving licence while you wait for the new one.

Some centres also offer the convenience of booking your renewal online through the NaTIS portal.

Applying for an Updated Drivers Licence

If you’re someone who doesn’t have access to the online portal, here’s what you can do instead. 

Visit your nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) and bring the following:

1. Identity Document (ID): Your original ID book or smart card, or a valid South African passport, along with a certified copy.
2. Current Driver's Licence Card: If available.
3. Photographs: Four black-and-white ID photos (confirm with your DLTC as some centres take photos on-site).
4. Proof of Residential Address: A utility bill not older than three months. If the bill isn't in your name, an affidavit from the bill holder confirming your residence, along with the bill, is required.
5. Eye Test: Conducted at the DLTC or provide a certificate from a registered optometrist.
6. Application Forms: Complete the DL1 form (Application for Renewal of Driving Licence Card) and the NCP form (Notification of Change of Address or Particulars of Person or Organisation).
7. Fees: On average, citizens can expect to pay between R200 to R260. However, the renewal fee varies by province; contact your local DLTC for the exact amount.

The Bottom Line

While it’s a relief that the licence printing machine is back in action, the road to clearing the backlog is still long. Delays like these highlight just how fragile the system can be — and how crucial it is for motorists to stay informed and proactive. Keeping your renewal receipt is currently the best proof of compliance while waiting for your card. 

So whether you’ve already applied or are due for renewal soon, stay updated, hold onto that receipt, and consider getting a temporary licence if needed. Until a more reliable, long-term fix is in place, a little extra admin could save you a lot of trouble down the line.