Photo of Chumasande Matiwane

Government extends driving licence validity to 10 years

3 months By Chumasande Matiwane

In a major relief for motorists, the government has announced that the validity period of driving licences has been extended from the existing term to 10 years. The decision is aimed at making licence renewal more convenient, reducing administrative workloads, and improving public access to transport services. 

Also see: Lerato Kganyago shows off luxury cars, netizens tag SARS in comments

The cabinet approved the extension of the driving licence validity period from five years to ten years; however, legislative amendments will be needed to bring this into full effect.  

Announcing on Thursday following Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshaveni encouraged motorists to continue renewing their licence cards until the necessary changes are made within the law. 

Ntshaveni has urged motorists to continue renewing their licence cards right until the full changes take effect.

Also see: South Africa’s most fuel-efficient cars to consider 

Minister explains

Minister Ntshaveni explained that, although this is a big deal, this new extended renewal period will not apply to licence permits for heavy-duty vehicles and Professional Drivers’ Permits. 

She continued to say, “Cabinet approved the extension of the validity period of driving licences for codes A, A1, B and EB from five years to ten years. The ten-year renewal period will only apply to light motor vehicles. Heavy commercial and public transport vehicles will remain subject to existing two- or five-year renewal cycles, while Professional Drivers’ Permits will also remain on the two-year renewal cycle.” 

The extended validity is expected to benefit millions of drivers, particularly those living in rural and remote areas where accessing licensing offices can be difficult. However, drivers are still required to follow all road safety regulations and ensure that their personal details remain up to date with the relevant authorities. 

Motorists are encouraged to stay informed about the implementation of the new rules and comply with all traffic laws to ensure safer roads for everyone. 

Also see: Why young South Africans are choosing Chinese cars

Featured image: X

Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp channel for content worth tapping into. Click here to join!

ENTERTAINMENT

Tony Forbes calls on musicians to help complete AKA-dedicated song

Tony Forbes has appealed to singers and rappers to help him complete a deeply personal song dedicated to his late son, rapper Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes. Also see: Tony Forbes speaks on AKA’s released text messages with Tembe family lawyer In an emotional message, Tony opened up about his ongoing grief, revealing that he has been […]

Read more...
ENTERTAINMENT

‘Celebrity Come Dine With Me South Africa’: Meet the first 4 hosts

South Africa’s first-ever celebrity season of Celebrity Come Dine With Me South Africa is set to bring laughter, drama and plenty of dinner table competition when it premieres later this month. Also see: ‘Come Dine With Me South Africa’ makes a comeback with celebrities The popular cooking and entertainment format will launch with a special […]

Read more...