I recently had to pay the Road Traffic Inspectorate the dreaded visit to renew my drivers licence and this is an (un)necessary evil that most South Africans have to endure every 5 years.
As there isn’t a lot of information available online I decided to compile this handy guide for anyone that has to go through the same ordeal soon so here it is – my handy guide to surviving a day at the Road Traffic Inspectorate.
Table of Contents
What you need to take with you:
- Original ID document or Smart Card ID. (An A4 copy of ID is required in Edenvale, Johannesburg. Maybe their photocopiers are broken!).
- Proof of residence. This needs to be an official document not older than three (3) months that clearly states your address, for example, a bank statement, account or utility bill.
- Take a pen with you. They do not have pens there.
- Glasses or contact lenses if needed for driving.
- Your current or expired drivers licence. If your licence has already expired you can take out a temp licence for R90. This is not compulsory and you have to ask for the temporary licence at the cashier. A fee of R90 is payable in cash.
- 2 black and white ID photographs for the temporary licence (optional). You can bring these along. There is also a booth at most testing stations that will take the photographs for you. It is around R50 for a set of 4. In Johannesburg, only 1 photograph (colour or black & white) is required. The Randburg testing centre requires 2x black and white photos for renewal. In Vanderbijlpark, only 1 colour photograph is needed.
- DL1 (green) form. This form can be obtained at the testing centre or online from the eNatis website here. Fill out sections A, B and D. Andrea pointed out in the comments: “I had to use the department’s form because it needs to be in a double sided-A3 format (like a file) so their docs can be inserted in it.” Liam also pointed out that Marlboro does not accept the web form and you have to fill out theirs. One of our readers, Chanel has kindly edited an A3 version of the form here.
- Gauteng users new to book online in advance at https://online.natis.gov.za which will have a list of all Gauteng RTI’s only. The RTMC will pilot the project in Gauteng and will be rolled out to other provinces in future.
Cost:
There are no fines or penalties for late renewals!
KZN
- as of 2017, the cost of renewal is R250 in cash.
- Temporary licence cost is R90 cash.
- The Mariannhill RTI in Pinetown, Durban has imposed a limit of ONLY 120 licence renewals per day. Thanks to Sandy for letting us know!
Johannesburg
- Renewal costs in Bedfordview are R228.00 and payment is accepted either in cash or by credit card.
- Temporary licence cost is R72 cash.
- 2x black and white photos are required for renewal in Randburg.
- The Edenvale licensing department now asks for a copy of your license when going to renew.
- You have to pre-book at https://online.natis.gov.za which will have a list of all Gauteng RTI testing centres.
Pretoria
- There is a new online booking system in Gauteng. You can access the service at https://online.natis.gov.za which will have a list of all Gauteng offices.
Cape Town
- R185 and includes the temporary licence.
Mpumalanga
- R185
Lost or stolen licences
- If your licence has been lost or stolen you do not need to redo the driving test. The procedure is the same as described above but you will have to get a temporary licence. More information is available here: https://www.gov.za/services/driving-licence/replace-lost-driving-licence
Outstanding Fines
- Reports in from Johannesburg and Bedfordview – If you have outstanding fines they have to be paid and they won’t complete the transaction. Please let us know if this is already implemented in your area in the comments section below. To read more about this, see this article on AARTO implementation to be rolled out nationwide.
Maiden name and surname changes
- If recently married your new married surname must reflect on your smart card ID. You also have to bring the marriage certificate along as proof that it is your correct surname.
Tips:
- It is worth noting that you can save time by having the eye test done at an optometrist for an additional charge. Depending on the testing centre you might have to sit in the same queue so this will only save you a few minutes and probably not worth the effort.
- According to Margaret who went to the Bedfordview Testing Centre in Johannesburg: Don’t waste time/money on a pre-eye test at an optician – I still had to do “theirs”.
- For the hypochondriacs – take “wet wipes” to clean the bar on which you have to press your forehead for the eye test.
- You will spend about 3 – 4 hours. Take a bottle of water.
- A LOT of people have asked about this – there are NO fines for late renewals!
If you cannot fetch the licence yourself or have to fetch it for someone else:
You /they will need:
- their ID (of the person getting the new licence),
- a certified copy of your ID (as the person fetching the licence), and
- an affidavit stating why they cannot collect the licence themselves, including the name and ID number of the person who will be fetching it.
Updates:
- In Cape Town, the renewal includes a temporary licence. Colour photos are also accepted here. Cape Town always seems to be ahead of the curve.
- The Akasia Testing Centre in Pretoria requires you to bring a photocopy of your ID document / Smart Card along.
The licence will be ready in 4 weeks from application. They do not send out a notice but should give you a contact number to phone to check if it’s ready for collection.
You can also check the status of your driving licence card status by sending your ID number via SMS to 33214.
Visit the eNatis website to check if you licence is ready: https://online.natis.gov.za/query-card/#/
Please leave us a comment below if this article helped you or we missed anything important.
Also published an older version of this on LinkedIn.
Thank you so much!
Pleasure!
Many thanx for the VERY useful information – none of which appears to be available on any “official” sites &, endeavouring to obtain information by phone, is an exercise in futility!
Having done the dreaded 5-yearly task at Bedfordview (Gauteng) last week, may I add the following:
In addition to the original ID, a copy of the ID is also required. Despite the “small” size of this document, & for reasons which defy logic, this copy must be on an A4 sheet of paper.
The cost (November 2017 – Bedfordview) is R228.00 & payment is accepted either in cash or by credit card.
Only 1 x photograph (colour or black & white) is required to be affixed to section A of the DL1 form. That which is incorporated on the actual driving licence is taken by them at the time of the eye test.
Don’t waste time/money on a pre-eye test at an optician – I still had to do “theirs”.
Take/wear glasses or contact lenses if needed for driving.
Black pen – as you stated, they don’t have any & there is a further “tracking” form to be completed which is not available on line as a down-load.
Take “wet wipes” to clean the filthy bar on which you have to press your forehead for the eye test!
Be prepared to spend 4-hours playing “musical chairs” before you are finished (literally & figuratively) so take a bottle of water.
Collection of new driving licence = 4-weeks from date of application – yet to be confirmed?!
Hi Margaret, thanks for the comprehensive feedback! There is quite a lot of useful information in your mini writeup. I will create a whole section in the article for Johannesburg Metro and add this to the article. Thanks again for the valuable comment.
Edenvale. Cost for renewal plus temp license=R300. Remember copies òf ID and drivers licence and proof of address.
Hallo Louis, Ek het skoonsus wat van Griekeland af kom om haar SA bestuurs lisensie te hernu. ..
Doen jy dit vir mense sodat hulle nie Verkeers Deptford. toe hoef te gaan nie?
Ek hooo so! 😆
Hi Phillip, dankie vir die boodskap! Die lisensiehernuwing kan ongelukkig nie namens iemand gedoen word nie, aangesien die vingerafrukke en foto vir die lisensie op die dag geneem word. Die lisensie kan wel deur iemand anders gehaal word mits:
* Hulle ‘n gesertifiseerde kopie neem van hulle ID,
* ‘n gesertifiseerde kopie van die bestuurder se ID en ‘n
* beëdigde verklaring wat stel waarom die bestuurder self nie die lisensie kan gaan haal nie insluitend – die naam en ID nommer van die persoon wat die lisensie gaan haal.
Very good information. Thanks a lot!….may I ask if one can renew your card drivers license in any province apart from the original province where you got it from?
Thanks in advance
Hi Kuba. Glad you found this information helpful. You can renew your drivers licence in any province but be sure that you will be staying long enough in the province to collect your licence after 4 weeks from the same testing centre.
Hi Louis
my driver’s will expire next year. I will be out of the country. Can I have it renewed now? And if so, will it be tenewed for 5 years or only for the remainder of the period?
Hi Grieta, yes you can renew your licence before it expires. Not too sure how long it will be valid for. Please let us know when you go to renew it.
Mariette Eley
Hi Louis, my licence card expired at the end of March…OOOOPS!! I live in Vereeniging Gauteng, can you tell me what the penalty fees are?
Hi Mariette, there are no penalty fees for late renewals!
Good day Mr Nel
I just wanted to know, what happens if your license has expired for 3 months, can i still go and renew it or maybe i must retake the test again.
Thank you for your response in advance.
Tumelo, you can renew your licence. It does not completely expire so you will not have to retake the test.
Louis Nel your are the best! Thank you for walking the extra mile to help all of us, wow this really has been helpful with my renewal recently.
You are welcome, Eurika!
Excellent stuff, thank you very much.
I would like to ask –
I do not have much post sent to my home.
My last letter is February.
Please assist
Wendy, you can use any letter as proof of residence as long as it’s not older than three months. i would suggest getting a bank statement from the ATM with your address on it.
very useful
Thank you! Please share with others.
Hi
Thanks for the info my card exo 10yrs back I never had a car or drove therefore did not renew my card however my daughter has a car and I may need to drive in the future I still my card can I just go on and renew or redo my licence.
Thanks in advance
Hi Amsha, good news – you can just go and renew your licence. Just take your old, expired licence with you.
Hi
Please can you tell me which centre in Durban is more efficient for Drivers Renewal.
Thank you
Hi Kasturi, I would recommend the Mariannhill / Pinetown centre as it has aircon and is rather efficient. Any other readers care to comment on this?
Hi Mr Nel,
Thanks for your valuable information. My ID was stolen, resulting in a police affidavit. The licence dept will not accept this. So getting a temp ID to get my licence renewed. Will they accept this when I go there, please? I thought of using one of those people who can queue for you etc. but their fees are hectic. I guess that is the cost for convenience.
Hi Ursula, they should accept the temp ID if it’s an official document from Home Affairs. Have not had anyone comment about this or have any experience with this so please let me know if it is accepted. As for the people who do it for you – yes, you pay extra for the convenience and for saving time.
Thank you for your information, why is it so expensive though in Durban? 😣😣😣
Very good question Samke! Would love to know as well.
Thank you for this up to date info. Do people over 70 need to have a doctors certificate or letter?
Hi Petro, so far people of over 70 have had no trouble to renew their licences without a doctor’s letter.
Have been to Pinetown. The queues r downstairs and out the door. I was slapped silly. In my lifetime it has never b such a mess. Called the day b4 to confirm what necessary. No photos and no mention of xtra
Cost for temp licence. Nor did I know they closed at 14:00. Or that they only processed 120 a day but I think that has been chucked bcoz of the the huge increase of applications.
When I arrived ppl everywhere and one very long queue. Sat for ages until I heard I needed photos. Shiny new machines already broken.
One other comment to u however. Thank u for so much information but I would ask u to please keep ur opinions of why ppl get their get eyes tested b4 coming in. I am one of them. I am not a hypochondriac but I do have Autoimmune Disorder. So I now have flu due to one guy coughing without covering his mouth. So cheers to those who do theirs b4 the test. It’s ur right to b a hypochondriac.
Hi Suzanne, thanks for sharing your experience with us. Sorry to hear about your condition – I look to provide a laugh here and there, but your condition is no laughing matter. All the best!
Do they accept a prescription from optometrists instead of having your eyes tested at the traffic department?
Yup, this is correct, added this to the Notes: “It is worth noting that you can save time by having the eye test done at an optometrist for an additional charge. Depending on the testing centre you might have to sit in the same queue so this will only save you a few minutes and probably not worth the effort.”
Do they take the photos for you there? Or do you need to take the photos for the permanent card?
The photos for the permanent card are taken there with a digital camera when you do your eye test. The 2 black and white ID photos are only if you want a temporary licence which is not compulsory.
Sorry it’s in krugersdorp
Hi Lynette, that is correct – the photos for the licence are taken at the testing centre (digital camera) so you do not need to take any photos since you don’t need a temporary licence.
Thanks guy. Really helpful
You’re welcome! Please let me know if anything has changed so we can update the article. Thanks!
If u are doing an eye test at your optmetrist do you have to bring the form from the traffic department or you can just attach the prescription along with it?…K
The optometrist won’t need the traffic department form but when you go to the traffic department, you will need to attach the optometrist’s eye test to the traffic department’s form.
Hi I went this morning at Acasia Driving Lisence Centre and they want a copy of your ID too.
Hi Corné, thanks for the tip. Will add this to the notes section as it may help others that want to go to the same testing station. Thanks!
Thank you so much Louis. This has saved me so much drama..
You are welcome, Unathi. Please let us know if there is anything valuable that we should add to the article and I’ll gladly update it.
HI LOUIS I want to go renew my licence do I need a affidavit that I lost it?
Hi Sanele, good news – you do not need an affidavit to state that you lost your licence. They ask for your old licence when you renew so you will have to take out the temporary licence at R90 extra.
Hi Louis my licence was stolen together with my car so now i need to get another licence so tell me what are they going to need on my side/
Hi Thabitha, sorry to hear about your car and valuables. When you get a new licence just say that your licence was stolen. You will need your green ID book or smartcard ID as well. Hope you still have that?
and if you have out standing traffic fines ??
On my visit they did not check for outstanding traffic fines.
I went to Randburg Licensing Department today and experienced the following…
Before I even had my eyes tested, some guy came to me while I was waiting and gave me a printout of my fines, using my ID copy I had submitted. It corresponded with the Aarto system I had checked online today as well, to be sure. There was a lot, as my kids cars also in my name. They said I can’t renew my licence if I don’t pay the fines first. I had to go to another room where I negotiated a settlement of the fines. Flustered and stressed, I went to the bank, drew the cash (apparently only cash accepted!!), went back and paid same guy, then continued with my application which was a lot easier now as the guy who showed me the fines printout then took me to another office and expedited my application. I’m still a bit unsure as to what exactly happened with the fines money as I only realised when I got home that I didn’t get a receipt… And Aarto still shows those fines online.. So I am praying that it’s just a system delay and that… well… this is SA…! And they were super friendly…
Am happy to have my temp licence though – and all within about 90 minutes. Mine expires Sunday.
What I experienced…
1. Gatekeeper ar reception has a checklist and makes sure you have everything. I had to go take photos. Needed two: 1 for renewal 1 for temp licence even though they also take a digital photo.
2. Needed proof of residence and original ID.
3. Paid R228 for renewal & R72 for temp.
4. Had to do eye test.
5. Had to sign digital signature specimen.
6. Took fingerprints of both hands.
7. Once you pay at cashier you get the temp licence.
Hi Natalie, thanks for the valuable information. The Aarto fines ordeal sounds a bit strange. Please let me know what happens and if your fines show up as settled eventually.
Hi Louis
Taken note of the very valuable information – thanks!
I too had tried to apply at Randburg following my very fruitless and unsuccessful visits to Westonaria (They have one gent operating on what appears to be a very slow system processing on average 1 person every 30 min)
After having stood patiently for over an hour, I was told upon inspection of my green bar coded ID that is was “defaced” and they then informed me to go and get a SMART ID. My green bar coded ID is probably some 30 years old and has been through the washing machine…nevertheless. Would a passport serve the same purpose? If not would you know if you have to wait for your smart ID to arrive before you can apply for a new licence and temp licence….my drivers expired at the end of Jan. What a mission!!!!! Thanks for the help Grant
Hi Grant, sorry to hear about the bad service at Westonaria. Oh dear, unfortunately as far as I know you have to use a green barcoded ID or smart ID for identification purposes. Passports are not accepted unfortunately so you will have to wait for the new ID first before proceeding with the licence renewal.
Hi Nat.
Same guys came up to me.
Was this a scam as I am unshure as well!
Elri
Hi Elri, I’d love to know if these guys are legit. Is there any way you can check if your fines have been settled? Haven’t found a good process yet for checking Aarto / eNatis.
Hi I have a license which expire last year November and I was not aware of, is the any amount that I will pay for late renewal? Please help!!
Good news, Hooe. There are no extra fees for a late renewal!
Hello Nat. Please could you contact me offline about your post about the payment of fines at the Randburg office. I have been working with the licensing department and they want to investigate this further – it sounds odd. (beth@bbc.org.za)
MY LICENCE EXPIRED ON O4/2014. CAN I STILL RENEW IT ?
Ronnie, yes you can still renew it, although they will advise you to get a temporary licence as you are currently an unlicensed driver.
THX LOUIS!
Hi Louis, thank you for this, it helps a lot! Quick question, when last I did my license renewal, I did it at Spec Savers Fourways Crossing, but I assume this service has been suspended, as I can’t find anything online? Do you know of any other place that offers the license renewal, or do I have to go to the actual Dept?
Mari-Lize, you’re welcome! You can only do the eye test portion of the renewal at any Spec Savers. Did you do the whole renewal at Spec Saver Fourways? Sorry, have never heard of any optometrists that are able to do the whole renewal. As far as I know you will have to go to the actual Department.
Yes, years ago the Spec Savers in Fourways Crossing had a little license department satellite office in the back, but I think that closed down. Thank you anyway!
Hi, My license expired 04/06/2017 – Would I need to pay penalties?
Michelle, there are NO penalties payable on an overdue licence. They might try and convince you to get a temporary licence. This is still optional. Reports vary but some people suggest that a receipt is enough if you get pulled over.
I will definitely be getting a temp license. What does it cost to renew it?
In January 2017 the actual licence renewal was R250 in cash. The temporary licence cost was R90 cash. These are KZN prices.
In other provinces it was R185. In Cape Town there wasn’t an extra charge for the temp licence.
Thank you so much for your help.
CAN I USE THE DL1 FORM (WHITE WITHOUT LOGO)THAT I DOWNLOADED ?
Yes you can use the downloaded DL1 form from the government website.
Hi L. I have to do this in the next couple of weeks in Gauteng so wish me luck! I’ll let you know if anything was different once I’m done… Any estimates as to how long it would approximately take to go through the process?
Hi Ilse, yes, please let us know so we can update the article if anything has changed. You’re looking at about 3 hours. Anything less is a bonus. Hope it goes quickly and good luck. 🙂
Verulam Station in Durban only gives out a certain number of forms a day so if you go late and the forms are out then you are unable to renew
I am going tomorrow, will update as soon as i am done
Hi Fadiel, thanks for the info. Let us know how the process went and we can add your insights to the article. Good luck!
Tks very helpful
Can I use the form which is on line. Tks
Hi Daphne, yes, you can use the online form although some testing centres do not accept this. One user said that it had to be printed in A3 double-sided format. I suggest you fill out their form while waiting in line to save the trouble.
Thank you so much for doing this, Louis! It has been very helpful.
You are welcome!
Update:
Went to verlum station , was there by 7 at which point there were 150 ppl in front of me, the officials came out and informed us we needed id plus copy and proof of residence
My wife did not have her original id so we left, i dropped her off at work and then went to pinetown station, reached there at 9 with 40 ppl ahead of me, airconed room was such a blessing, mind you at verulam you stand outside, here they only required id and proof, no copy required,
1hour later i was done
Note : if u needa temp then you will require 2 id photos
Prices are still R250 n R90 for temp
Thanks for the update, Fadiel. Glad to hear the rates are still the same. And nice one, also did mine at Pinetown. Glad to hear they were on the ball.
I lost my license and it’s due for a renewal, how would I go about the process without the license?
Hi Ash, the good news is that you do not have to redo your drivers test. You can apply in the same way as described in the article when renewing your licence except you will have to get a temporary licence.
You can read more on this link: https://www.gov.za/services/driving-licence/replace-lost-driving-licence
Hi Louis ,
I went for my Drivers’ renewal today and all your tips came in really handy and on point . Thank you so much 🙂
Thuli, glad the tips were helpful!
Thank you so much everyone for the very useful information given here. I have to renew soon and this at least makes me aware of all the requirements
Hi Penny, glad you found this helpful. Please share any thoughts or tips after your experience if we missed anything!
27_11_17, A new twist, I had to get an affidavit to state that my wife stayed in the same house as me because my utility account only has my name on it, on returning the official then demanded a copy of our marriage certificate which we duly presented ( a hand written one) not good enough I now have to go to home affairs to apply for a computer generated copy .
My question is simple since when do you have to provide marriage certificates to renew a drivers license when already in possession of a drivers license and new smart ID.
Hi Martin, thanks for sharing. Probably because the traffic eNaTIS system and the home affairs database can’t communicate with each other. Really silly actually, it really should’t be such an effort. But thanks for sharing this tip!
Thank you Louis. This has been the most useful source of information, all the official platforms are useless. Now off to renew. Salute!
Only a pleasure, Thabiso. Hope it went smoothly!
Hi There, i am in Durban and need to renew my drivers license which has expired, is anyone able to advise as to what the [penalties may be.
Hi Yovs, you’re in luck. There are no penalties for an expired licence. However, they will have you take out a temporary licence as you are an unlicenced driver so take R90 extra for the temp licence as well as 2 black and white ID photographs. You can have them taken in advance at most photo shops but there is also a booth at most testing stations that will take the photographs for you.
Thanks very much for this – just about to take my 84 year old mom to renew. Hold thumbs! (I think).
Glad to help! Hope it goes well.
Hi. What happens if you stay with your parents but the utility bill is in their name? will a letter from them suffice? or will something more be required?
Hi Meemee, to be safe try getting a bank statement or something that has your name and address on it. Most ATMs can give you a bank statement with your address on it that is perfect for this purpose.
Hey Louis,
Thank you (and the other contributors) for this info. As usual the government sites provide absolutely no information although there are a lot of photographs of self-important people who have nothing in common with the topic!
Does anyone know if I can renew my driver’s licence at the Percy Osborne/Innes Road branch in Durban? Which is the most efficient branch? Thanks, Andrea
Hi Andrea, glad you found this helpful. That is exactly why this post was created. Regarding your question about the Percy Osborne / Innes Road branch – not sure if they do renewals there. Maybe someone else can comment on this as well as the most efficient branch?
Hi Louis
I would like to renew my drivers licence before it expires as i will be away on holiday on that period , is this possible?
Hi James, yes you can renew it before it expires. This is the ideal situation and you will not have to worry about a temporary licence.
RE: Durban driver’s licence renewal forms
Hi All,
I printed out the four A4 application pages required. I had to use the department’s form because it needs to be in a double sided-A3 format (like a file) so their docs can be inserted in it.
The staff were very pleasant and helpful.
Hi Andrea, thanks for the interesting fact regarding the A3 format. Will add to the main article.
Hallo Louis
Ek wil net seker maak, vir die tydelike lisensie benodig ek 2 x id fotos. En vir die gewone lisensie? M.a.w. ek gaan moet om my lisensie te hernu maar ek sal moet ook ‘n tydelike lisensie kry. Hoeveel fotos in total gaan nodig wees?
Hi Rena, die foto op die lisensie self word digitaal afgeneem. Dus is die 2 fotos genoeg vir die tydelike lisensie en jy hoef nie nog ekstra te laat neem nie.
thanks Louis all super help. My liscence expired and currently i dont live in SA anymore. Do you have any suggestions of what i should do?
Hi Thandi, glad you found this helpful. As far as I know, the only way to renew your drivers licence is in person. This is to avoid fraud and other illegal activities. Someone else can collect on your behalf but I’m afraid, the actual renewal has to be done by you in person.
Hi there, thanks so much for all this information, it is very helpful! I am also living abroad… do you have any idea what we should provide instead of proof of residence etc?
Hi Bronwen, do you have any SA bank accounts still active? I would suggest a bank statement of a local account that is still in your name. It has to be a legal document of an account or bill in your name.
Thanks Louis!
Also wondering, where can I get things certified, for example my ID so that another person can collect my licence for me?
You can have your documents certified at any bank or Postnet office.
Die blog het my baie gehelp dankie. Ek moes vandag my lisensie wat ses maande gelede reeds verval het in Somerset-Wes hernu. Ek het in koue angssweet uitgeslaan want ek was bang ek moet dalk van voor af ‘n bestuurstoets aflê omdat my lisensie reeds verval het. Terwyl ek in die ry wag kom ek toe op die blog af. Die raad was in die kol en ek is in minder as twee ure gehelp en die diens was flink en vriendelik. Die koste was R140 vir die lisensie en R45 vir die tydelike lisensie. Ek het nou die dag my oë laat toets vir ‘n nuwe bril en toe sommer die oogkundige gevra vir ‘n sertifikaat. Ek het dit saam met my ander dokumente saamgeneem en dit was toe nie nodig dat hulle weer my oë toets nie.
My raad is dit: As jou lisensie verval het moenie soos ek uitstel om ‘n tydelike lisensie te kry nie. Ek was gelukkig maar indien jy in ‘n ongeluk kom of by ‘n padblokkade gestop word en jou lisensie het verval kan jy groot moelikheid hê. Die tydelike lisensie word dadelik uitgereik en die wagtyd vir die nuwe een is ongeveer vier weke. Moenie vergeet om bewys van jou adres saam te neem naas die ander dokumente nie. Heelwat mense moes omdraai omdat hulle dit nie gehad het nie.
Hi Jean, bly dit kon jou help en baie dankie vir die goeie raad! Sal dit insluit in die artikel.
Hi. I live in Pretoria, on holiday in Cape Town. Just realised my license expired 14/12. Can I apply in CT for temporary license as I’ll need to drive.
Hi Helena. That’s shouldn’t be a problem. You can apply for a renewal in any province and get a temp. However, the actual licence will only be ready in about four weeks so you will have to fetch it from the department. Not sure if their logistics can handle you picking it up from another testing centre. Also you can only apply for a temporary license with a normal licence renewal.
Many thanks
Thanks Louis, info much appreciated. Have just spent 30 minutes trying to find out what is needed from “official” sites.
Hi Dorian, you’re most welcome!
Hi Louis, Thanks for doing this – It’s a great service you are doing!
Just to answer Andrea, and if anyone else needs to know, the Percy Osborn office in Durban is only for Car Licence renewals, not Drivers Licences.
As for efficiency: I have always had good service at Pinetown.
Cheers.
Hi Mark, thanks for clearing that up!
Thank you for the info…much appreciated.
I Had an eye test done earlier in the year .
Can I use the same or do I have to do another.
Was wondering if there is a validity period on the eye test….any body?
Hi Brenda, there is definitely a validity period on the eye test, however not sure how long that is. I would suggest taking it with you. Worst case is that you might have to redo the eye test but it will only take a few extra minutes of your time.
Hi Louis,
Here’s one for you: A senior colleague of mine has the old green ID Book which also contains the driver’s licence. Would you be kind enough to forward/direct me as to how and what steps to take. The gentleman resides in Durban. Thanks
Hi Feisal, the procedure would be the same as the above. The Drivers Licence card has replaced the old green ID Book section.
Hi Louis & All
I don’t currently have a proof of address with my current address as I recently got married. I can provide a utility bill in my husbands name and a cope of the marriage certificate. Will this be sufficient?
Hi Marlize, as per another user Martin. Your husband will have to get an affidavit to state that you stay in the same house as him and a copy of your marriage certificate (computer generated copy) from home affairs. This is a lot of effort. I would recommend if you have a TV licence can also update your TV licence address online on their website, then print a copy of this document and use it as your proof of residence.
Thanks so much Louis! Yes, way too much effort indeed! You also suggest bank statement right?
Can you please clarify whether or not I need to provide photographs to renew my drivers licence only and not including a temporary licence
Hi, thanks for all the useful information. Can anyone suggest the easiest/ most efficient licence office in the Pretoria area? I usually go to Waltloo but one has to start lining up at about 6am.
Does anyone know if the office in Rayton is still open?
Dankie Louis – insiggewend en goed saamgevat. Dankbaar vir jou blog!
Hi Adéle, bly die inligting kon jou help!
Hi ,
Ek het my lisensie hernu op die 15/12 / 2017 te Centurion en nog niks van hulle gehoor nie.
Moet ek hulle skakel of sal hulle my laat weet?
Is daar ‘n no om te skakel?
Hi Ronnie, dit neem gewoonlik 4 weke vir die lisensie op te arriveer. Hulle laat weet jou ongelukkig nie, ek sou voorstel om te wag tot ten minste die 15de Januarie en hulle dan te kontak. Hulle nommer is nie aanlyn beskikbaar nie.
Jammer Louis my fout, dit was 15 /11 /2017
Dankie
O, okay. Dan sal jou lisensie defnitief reg wees om gehaal te word!
Louis, at some point in time, a drivers license was still valid for 3 months after expiry. Has this fallen away?
Hi Karen, yes, this has definitely fallen away!
Hello Louis
Baie dankie veraljou ongelooflike moeite!
Ek woon en werk nou al vir 5 jaar in Zambia en my lisensie het in 2014 verval toe gaan kry ek sommer n lisensie in Zambia (wat wel nog geldig is). Nou is ek trug in SA en immegreeg New Zealand toe oor n maand kan ek my lisensie hernie en dan aansoek doen vir n internasionale lisensie vir New Zealand? En gaan dit beteken dat ek moet 4 weke wag vir my lisensie en dan eers aansoek doen vir my internationale lisensie?
Hi Emile, jy gaan ‘n geldige SA of Zambiese bestuurslisensie nodig hê vir jou IDL (International Driving Permit) so jy sal 4 weke moet wag vir die nuwe lisensie voordat jy aansoek kan doen.
http://www.aatravelinsurance.co.za/aa-cover-options/international-driving-permit
My Bestuurs lis het die 4deJan 2018 verval hoeveel dae grasie kry ek en moet ek weer my oë laat toets of kan ek net met my bril aan gaan vir lisensie.
Hi Kitty, slegte nuus – jy kry ongelukkig nie grasie op die vervaldatum nie. Goeie nuus – daar is nie ‘n boete nie. Jy hoef nie spesiaal jou oë te laat toets nie. Neem net jou bril saam vir die toets, hulle doen ‘n oogtoets daar met jou bril aan en sal dit so aanteken op jou nuwe lisensie.
EK EN MY DOGTER HET SAAM ONS DRY LISENSIE HERNU. DIT IS GEREED OM AF TE HAAL. WAT HET EK VAN HAAR NODIG OM HAAR LIS OOK AF TE HAAL OMDAT SY UITSTEDIG IS?
Hi Ronnie, jy gaan die volgende nodig hê:
* ‘n gesertifiseerde kopie van jou dogter se ID dokument,
* ‘n gesertifiseerde kopie van jou ID dokument,
* beëdigde verklaring wat stel waarom jou dogter nie self die lisensie kan gaan haal nie insluitend – jou naam en ID nommer as die persoon wat die lisensie gaan haal.
Louis, o…lekker!
Up to date, informed and so willing to share – what a pleasure!
My partner’s application to renew his licence was rejected/halted, because of outstanding traffic fines. He was not informed until we went, out of own accord to collect his new licence after 5 weeks and several phone calls. They did apologise for not telling us at the time of application. They had no record of the outstanding fines, how many or where to obtain such information or how to pay any of the fines once we have reviewed the validity (Krugersdorp and Roodepoort Offices). We went online, and more than one of the sites where fines traffic can be viewed, had “traffic violations” for his registration number, but this would accumulate as we viewed it …? The only way he could obtain his renewal (on advice from the Traffic Dept) was to negotiate a settlement figure with the Officer of the Court, who now had a “printout of all outstanding fines” (?). The “printout was the printout” and very little detail to be investigated/reviewed (a period of 5 years….). My partner had to start the admin process to apply for renewal all over again….
I will start my application journey next week….. I have read your block and noted that outstanding fines will not prevent a renewal to be issued. I am not aware of any outstanding fines?
Is there any way to be certain if my renewal will be rejected/halted?
Hi Mignon, this is a very interesting case. We have not had any other readers have the same issue. Are you referring to the SA Drivers Licence or the Motor Vehicle License disc (the one that is attached to the car window?). This disc might be refused if fines are outstanding.
Marlboro doesn’t accept any forms printed off the internet.
Hi Liam, thanks for pointing this out. Will update the article with this info!
Hello Louis, thanks a mill for al the helpful advice. I have a question regarding an expired temporary license. I lost my license and applied for a temporary license in Johannesburg earlier last year. It’s been 6 months since I had the opportunity to come back (I study in Cape Town), would the license still be available for me to pick up even tho it has passed the 6 months period? And if I apply for a temp now in Johannesburg, can I pick it up in Cape Town? Thanks
Hi Richmond, the temp licence is only valid for 6 months so I would assume they would not keep it longer than that. If it is still there it would have expired in any case. Since the Road Traffic Inspectorate does not have integrated logistics from one province to another you have to pick it up from the same testing centre where you applied. Sorry. Hope this helps!
Hi there just want to confirm that I have to take colour photos for my renewal of drivers license. I don’t need a temporary license
Thank you Nel. Very informative. Does the copy of the I’d have to be certified?
Hi Ahtiya, no, the copy of the ID for the licence renewal does not need to be certified. Only in the case of fetching the ID for someone else is this the case. Thanks!
Most helpful. Clear and concise!
Glad you found this helpful, Pheadra!
Please note I arrived at Centurion branch at 10:35 (11 January 2018) just to be closed already.
And to add insult to injury a hour later I was given a R1260 fine for my license which expires January 2018. Can someone advise whether it is legal to be fined the same month as the expiry month of the drivers license please?
Hi Hardus, sorry to hear about your awful experience. Your licence should be valid right up to the day that it expires. The fines in question seem to be something “new” that is not documented anywhere on official channels. It is not the same everywhere which further adds to the confusion. Another user, Mignon also brought this up after visiting the Krugersdorp and Roodepoort Offices. Please add to this thread if you have any extra info regarding this.
Good afternoon, My driver’s licence expired today and armed with everything I needed to supply them with (including an optometrist’s eye test certificate), I arrived at the testing station in Florida, only to be told that I would have to ‘come back tomorrow, as we have reached our maximum quota of people waiting to renew their licences’. I had no option but to leave and try to go when it’s less busy on another day. Can you please advise me about the following:
1. How long is my almost-expired driver’s licence be valid for?
2. What are the operating hours at the Florida testing station?
3. What is the best time to go? Being a pensioner of over 70, I am loathe to travel in the early hours of the morning and put my safety at risk, especially as there were stacks of men goading and harrassing me when I arrived this morning.
Many thanks, I look forward to your response.
Lynette
Hi Lynette, sorry to hear about your experience.
To answer your questions:
1. Your licence is valid up to the exact date it expires on the licence.
2. The operating hours of the Florida testing station are Monday to Friday, 07:30am – 15:30pm.
3. Looking at the stats on Google, I would say your best bet would be a Monday or a Tuesday around 2pm.
Please let us know how your experience went!
hi louis if my traffic fine is still pending i cant be able to renew my licence?
Hi Victo, you will be able to renew your licence even if you have fines pending. Thanks!
Dude, you are a thug. Amazing initiative.
Hi Shahied, glad this helped! 🙂
Thank you for the info. Very helpful. What if I apply two weeks before mine expires and I don’t have the new one by the expiry date? Do I have to get a temporary license?
Hi Martha, that is correct, you would not have to get a temporary licence. Best time to renew. The temp licence is not compulsory however, but if your licence has already expired you will be driving as an unlicenced driver.
HI Louis,
Just to be clear, I do not need to take my own photos for the permanent licence, only if a temporary licence is required? I will be going in to Randburg for my renewal this week .(Dreading it). Does anyone know if they accept online forms? Any helpful info for this particular department will be greatly appreciated.
Hi Lucia, that is correct! Haven’t been to that testing centre myself, so relying on what other users have commented about the online forms, seems Joburg is picky on this either “double sided-A3 format (like a file) so their docs can be inserted in it also, Liam pointed out that Marlboro does not accept the web form and you have to fill out theirs. So I’m assuming Randburg will be picky. I suggest you just fill out their forms to save yourself a headache.
Just found out from Teresa, that the Randburg branch requires 2x black and white photos for renewal.
Hi Louis,
Thank you for this service. Could you tell me what the normal operating hours of the Randburg office are?
Regards,
Bruce
Hi Bruce, you are most welcome! Apparently it’s Monday – Friday, 07:30 – 15:00 which is about standard nationwide. Google also says it’s open on Saturdays from 8am – 1pm but I wouldn’t trust that 🙂
Hi Louis
Thank you for the helpful info. My license expires this week and I went to get photos taken as I might go to branch that doesn’t do them. They told me to remove my glasses even though I wear them all the time and my current license photo was taken with them on. Which would be correct?
Hi Lynn, interesting question! Sounds like the photographer has had issues with the flash creating a glare and the eyes not showing up properly. My guess is that the photo without your glasses is fine, as long as you do the eye test at the testing centre with your glasses on it will be noted on your licence.
Hi Louis, awesome initiative. Which municipality has the best reputation for being the most efficient do you think?
Thanks Michael! It’s hard to say – people do not include their waiting times. The best reported time on this blog was 1 hour at the Pinetown / Mariannhill RTI in Durban. The average waiting time seems to be about three hours.
Thank you so much. You saved my husband a round trip to go back and collect everything on your list
Glad to hear this helped you, Surika!
Thanks Louis for the valuable infos…I’ve renewed my drivers licence a day before expiry date at Hillstar Traffic Dpt in Ottery, Cape Town and all went well.
I had to bring a recent id photo, proof of address not older than 3 months (this is very serious and the notification letter for renewal of the driving licence from the Traffic Dpt IS NOT accepted as proof of residence even though it is posted to you) and R.140. I’ll be waiting for +4 weeks and in the meantime i’m using my expired licence and my receipt (valid for 3 months).
Thanks again.
Thanks for the valuable info Papy!
Hi just out of curiosity is it normal practise that if your licence is stolen and 1 has to renew is the balance of the 5 years only applicable. Surely if you have to pay the full amount the 5 years should start from then. I am now having to pay twice in 2 years due to my licence being stolen
Hi Carol, sorry to hear about your licence getting stolen again. As far as I know the full amount is applicable every time you renew your licence.
Thank You So Much,
more so then I can say for our licensing dept.
Glad to be of service, Gideon!
Thank you, dreading tomorrow. They will take the pics for the new licence? only the temp do you need to have black and white ?
Pleasure, good luck! They take all the pics for the new licence, don’t worry about the pics if you don’t need a temp licence.
Hi Louis. Thanks for all the useful info. Will they accept cellphone statements as a proof of address? Any info on the Triten Road station in Durban?
You are welcome Stefne! Yes, a cellphone statement is acceptable as Proof of Residence. That is a very popular testing centre. Attempted to renew my licence there but the queues were very long. Ended up going to the Pinetown / Mariannhill branch instead. Good luck!
Hi Louis
My licence expired now on the 15th January 2018. I went to renew my licence in december 2017. I did not get a temporary licence. I have white slip proof of payment that i renewed my card. Metro today 23rd jan gave me a fine for expired licence. I showed her the proof that i just need to pick up my card. She gave me a fi e R625.
When i went to renew my licence the lady said i wont need a temporary coz stil valid til jan 2018.
Im so upset now. What is the law
Hi Anya. Sorry to hear about your terrible ordeal. Usually the white slip is enough proof since you went to renew your licence in advance. The lady at the Road Testing Inspectorate was correct in saying that you did not need the temporary licence.
Sounds like she fined you for “Failure to produce a licence.” I suggest you dispute the fine (via the email address on the fine) and submit proof of your receipt for the licence renewal.
Please let us know what happens and whether they scrapped or reduced the fine.
How to Renew my Licence
Renewal of driving licence card.
• Applicants can visit any driving licence testing centre to renew their driving licence card.
• An applicant will need acceptable identification — valid diving licence card, valid temporary ID, green bar-coded ID, valid RSA green bar-coded passport — a copy thereof, as well as the appropriate legislated fees.
• The applicant will complete an application form, pass an eye test, take fingerprints and pay at the cashier.
• A receipt will be issued.
• The applicant will receive a notice in the post for collection purposes — the waiting period is about four weeks
• Should applicants require temporary driving licences with card application, they will need the appropriate fees as well as one additional photo. The temporary licence will be issued immediately.
• Should applicants renew their driving licence card on or before the date of the expiry, the existing licence card shall remain valid for the next three months provided they are in possession of their old/current cards and a receipt of their new applications
• Driving licences not claimed by the applicant within 120 days will be defaced
That is copied from the Government website
Hi, any idea if Winkelspruit licensing office take photos on the premises ?
Hi Pillai, have not been to that testing centre in a while. Speaking under correction but they take photos digitally. If this has changed there is definitely a photo booth service on site if you do for some reason need Polaroid photos. Please let us know if anything has changed so we can update the blog.
Thank you so much! Very helpful information.
You are welcome Lerato!
Thank you, very helpfully info. At the Randburg branch now, 2x black and white photos are required for renewal.
Thanks for the info Teresa, will update the article. Please let us know if there is anything else we should include.
If a person over 80 needs to renew their drivers license – what will they need. We heard that they need a form to be completed by their doctor
That is a very good question, Kathy. Just found this answer:
From a legal standpoint: “There is no maximum age in the National Road Traffic Act or regulations. As long as you are in possession of a valid drivers license, you are able to drive.”
https://www.justanswer.com/south-africa-law/4h4et-maximum-age-gentleman-drive-own-car.html
Hi Louis,
I live in Pretoria east and need to go and renew my License. Any advice on which licence department is the best to go to in this area?
Thanks!
Hi Hardus, that is a good question. Most of our Gauteng readers have reported on Johannesburg departments but none so far on Pretoria. Can anyone else recommend which is the best one in Pretoria?
Hi Hardus, options I know of:
I would suggest Watloo or Centurion but the full list as per Tshwane municipal website.
1. Licensing Services 227 Andries Str 012 358 7557
2. Saambou Offices PTA Central
3. Station Square Licensing services Cnr Daan de Wet Nel & Willem Cruywagen
4. Waltloo Licensing Services 312 Petroleum Str Waltloo 0
Centurion Licensing services Nellmapius Drive Irene 012 358 7557
Thanks for the great info, Nomfundo!
My hubby has a problem with writing. Would he be able to go and collect a green form then bring it home? After completing he would return the next day with all the documentation.
Hi Jean, yes this would be possible. Some testing centres only had out a limited amount of forms per day so in this case I would recommend getting there very early. Most testing centres open at 07:30 AM.
Hi. Very useful info. Thank you. I went to our centre here in Dbn, KZN, today and was told that I could not renew my driver’s licence, which expires on 1 Mar’18, as my ID was still in my maiden name. My options were to either apply for a temporary licence which is valid for 6 months and go and apply for the smart ID card or go and apply for my smart ID card, come back to testing centre on receipt of the issued card, where after I can apply for my driver’s licence renewal. I chose to not get the temp licence and go to Home Affairs instead to apply for my smart ID card. Stood in line for hours and was then told that they were offline. Needless to say, still no application of any sort made….. Is there any way you could post something on how to obtain the smart ID card quickly and without hassle? Much obliged.
Hi Ronell, sorry to hear about your experience. That is a great idea. Will do a post on the smart card soon.
Hi Ronelle, you can apply for a smart ID through the online process on the DOH website. And you can make an appointment at a bank for the photo’s and prints and collect from the same bank. I did my ID and passport that way and it took 10 minutes waiting and then 3 days later O could collect. I paid using absa and used the Absa Centurion Branch. It is not a bank thing, the DOHA has offices within the bank.
Goodday Louis. What are the costs for the Freestate (Bloemfontein)?
Hi Carlien, have not had confirmation for the Free State costs. It will be between R185 (Mpumalanga) and R250 (KZN) as every province is different. Please let us know the cost and we will update the article!
Hi, I have 2 colour passport photos. Will this suffice? Or does it specifically have to be “ID” photos? Thanks.
Hi Nas, which testing centre will you be going to? Most places will accept colour photos as well, for instance in Johannesburg, only 1 photograph (colour or black & white) is required.
Hello..I test drived on 09/09/2017 and got temporary drivers license and have not collected my license since then..Will i be able to get my license😣😟?.What must I do if I don’t
Hi Phila, you should be able to still get your licence as it’s valid for 5 years so they will not destroy it.
I was so worried and I went to collect it today😊😄I’m so happy I got it..Thank you
You are a super star!! Thank you so much. I would have had to go back for not having everything in order. You saved me time.
You’re most welcome, Leeanda.
Hello Louis I recently lost my drivers license went for renewal did the affidavit filled the forms did eye test at the till they told me had to pay all my fines before renewal what should I do as I currently don’t have that amount and am in mafikeng.
Hi Mpho, this is a new strategy. The RTI is now connected to the eNatis system or regional traffic departments in some areas and can see the fines. In which area are you?
Am in Pretoria now am in mafikeng
Thanks for the info!
Mafikeng is not yet connected to the fines database but will be in future.
Hi! I need to change my surname on my new licence, do I need to take my marriage certificate or if My smart Id is already in the new surname will this suffice?
Hi Amy, your new Smart ID should be enough.
Great thanks so much
Hi Amy
I was recently at the Midrand office to renew and the lady in front of me also wanted to have her new license reflect her new married surname which was shown on her ID. She made it all the way to end of the process and when she wanted to pay, the gentleman refused and told her that she would have to bring the marriage certificate. If you have it on hand, I would take it with to avoid being put in that same position.
Thank you very much
You’re welcome!
Thank you for this valuable info!
You are welcome, Suzy!
Hi,
Firstly thank you so much for this, it is a great help to be able to have everything ready before you go.
I live in Johannesburg South. I used to live in Meyerton and getting things there takes less time.
Will I be able to renew my drivers licence there even though I no longer live in the area?
Any help will be greatly appreciated.
Only a pleasure, Vicky! Yes, you will still be able to go to Meyerton to do your renewal.
thank you so much.
Good Day Louis
Will they accept the DL1 whitch is Black and White off the internet, or must it be the green form?
Hi Francois, there are mixed reports. Some testing centres accept the downloaded form in double-sided A3 format. Other places do not. I would say, to save yourself the effort, rather fill out their green form.
Hi Louis, is a medical still required for someone over 75?
Hi Katja, not sure if the medical is still required. Other people have also asked about this on the blog but I haven’t been able to confirm this. Maybe one of the other readers can shed some light on this topic?
Good day Louis
My license expired on 06.02.18 and I need to renew and also I need to change my address.
Previous address I was renting and now I’m no longer staying there I need to change to my home address even though I’m not at home to avoid changing addresses everytime, can that be possible.
Hi Faith, you need to take along a proof of address of your home address so that this can be captured into the system.
Thanks for the helpful information. Perhaps someone has an answer for me. Can one continue to drive or renew a licence once one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease?
Very good question Colin, hopefully one of the blog readers will know the answer!
Hi Colin,
Contact Driving Matters 011 8036649.
They will do an assessment, and book a driving test for you with their Driving Instructor.
They will then give you a report.
It all depends how the Parkinsons is affecting you.
It’s more important from an insurance side of things.
All the best.
Thanks for the valuable info, Robyn!
Thank you so very much for all your info. Made my life sooo much easier.
You’re welcome Giuliana.
Do you know if they will accept an account statement. I have an Avon invoice/statement with address on it? Or is a lease agreement safer? They’re full of s**t here in KZN (and seems we’re the most expensive for renewals…)
Hi Karen, they accept some account statements, not sure if they will accept the Avon statement. A lease agreement is your best bet. We are indeed the most expensive province for renewals in the country!
Hi there!
I have the dreadful task of renewing my drivers license soon. So I’ve taken the liberty to lay out the DL1 form on an A3 that you can print out and fold.
You can download it here 🙂 :
http://docdro.id/9m30aj7
Hope this helps. I’ll test out this version of the form when I go and give feedback!
Hi Chanel, this is fantastic! Thanks for this. Will add it to the main article. Please let us know if they accepted it and which testing centre you went to.
I renewed my license at the Vanderbijlpark DLTC on 8 February.
You need to take a pen, copy of your ID, copy of your drivers license, proof of residence, 1 colour passport photo and R228. It took about 3 hours. It was not a good experience as they don’t have a very good queuing system so if you aren’t vigilant you get people pushing in the line ahead of you. There are vendors there who can do the copies and photos.
Thanks for the info, Tony!
At the Bedfordview office, there is a sign that if you have outstanding fines they have to be paid as the Enatis system is now linked and they won’t complete the transaction. Also if you don’t have a proof of address in your name and you have a letter from the person you live with, it must an affidavit from police station.
This is very important information, thanks for the update Victoria!
hi i think i have many fines in my name , i will be in Western Cape- oudtshoorn for a while (3 weeks ) . if i can get proof of adress , do u know if i can get my license or are they connected to e natis .
thanks 4 the blog
Hi Eli, no reports from the Western Cape yet but they are always on the ball so I’m sure they are also connected to eNatis.
Does anyone know if you need to have a certified copy of your ID? Is it sufficient to make a copy and present this with your ID document?
Hi Sudesh, no, the copy of the ID for the licence renewal does not need to be certified. A normal photocopy will do. Only in the case of fetching the ID for someone else is this the case.
hi was wondering if i get my smart card id , would i also need to renew drivers license even though drivers license has expired . also would having fines in my name also be an obstacle.
Hi Eli, yes you will still need to renew your Drivers Licence. The Smart Card and the licence are two different things. Where are you located? So far we have reports of people in Joburg not being able to renew due to outstanding fines.
Hi
My licence has extremely expired (like it expired 7 years ago). Do I need to re-do the whole process again from the Learners as some people have told me that I will be regarded as a person who has never owned a Drivers Licence
Hi Sibongile, as far as I know you can reapply for your licence. The government websites do not state a time limit after your licence has expired. It is worth a try. Let us know what happens!
Goeie Dag
Kan iemand my sê waar ek n telefoon nr kan kry om uit te vind hoeveel dit gaan kos om n bestuurs lisensie te hernu. Dit is vir Benoni area. En sal graag wil weet watter dae hulle oop is en die tye. Hoop julle sal kan help. Dankie
I have just renewed my licence at Centurion – what a pleasure! Everything done in less than 45 minutes. A most pleasant man with a lovely rich voice directs people at the gate; a pleasant efficient lady directs people inside. As a result people sat in the (short) queue laughing and chatting to each other.
Thanks for the update, Anne! Centurion seems to be doing very well.
Thank you, for the blog this helped a lot, Centurion does not need ID copy or Photos for renewal, they have digital cameras, All you need is your ID and payment, they accept money and debit/credit card, and it took me less than an hour in and out. improved services.
Thanks for the update, Lungs! It’s nice to hear some good news. Congrats to the Centurion Testing Centre for great service.
Good Morning Lungs.
I will be going tomorrow to renew mine, did you go in the morning or early afternoon? I have read that a few people have gone in the early afternoon and have had good success time wise. But i do not want to get caught not being able to renew my licence due to the office closing at 3pm and im not able to be helped.
Hi Donovan, I suggest morning but you are welcome to go in the early afternoon. As you say, if you go too late and the queue is too long you might not be helped before there. I think you should go at least at 12 ‘o clock midday to be safe at the latest as the average time for renewals is three hours.
it was a great help. Thank you
Glad to help Puncho!
Have downloaded the DL1 form. Is the A3 format mandatory at all centres or will loose sheets be accepted. I will use Krugersdorp. The link for the A3 format I am confused by as it appears not to run A to D and then office use. Very helpful Blog, thanks.
Hi Rob, the centres that accept the A3 are very fussy so rather print the proper A3 form or fill out their form. It is set to be printed double-sided so it will look confusing when you open it. Glad to help!
This is so useful – thank you so much! Going to renew my license next week, probably at Randburg, and will share anything additional /useful if experienced there.
Hi Fiona, please let us know of anything else that could help the community. Good luck!
Tips from my experience this morning at bedfordbiew.
▪Website says open at 9am, actually 8am.
▪Don’t waste time trying to call them.
▪Get there from 7am to join the queue.
Docs required:
▪Proof of residence (not older than 2 months)
▪Copy of your ID
▪Original ID
▪1x photo (colour or B&W), even for renewals, photos can be taken inside the office for R50 (cash only). This photos is only for the paperwork. A digital photo is taken with your finger prints that gets used for you drivers card.
▪Green application form (given to you in the queue). Bring your own pen.
They are very strict with their queues, but it works and makes the experience bearable.
Eye test is done, regardless if you bring your results from your optometrist.
Fridays seem to be their quiet days (2 hours, 35 minutes for me)
If you have outstanding fines, you’ll need to pay them. You can pay them at the office.
Card facilities available for renewal fee and outstanding fines.
R228 for renewal
R72 for a temporary
Making friends with the people in the queue with you, makes the time go by quickly.
Thanks for the great tips, Wendy!
Pingback: What You Need To Renew Your South African Motor Vehicle Licence Disc (ALV) - 2018 - My Blog
I am a married woman and have to renew my drivers. I have no bank account of any other accounts in my name. Which document must I take as my POR?
Hi Angie, as per another user Martin. Your husband will have to get an affidavit to state that you stay in the same house as him and a copy of your marriage certificate (computer generated copy) from home affairs to use his Proof Of Residence. This is a lot of effort. I would recommend if you have a TV licence can also update your TV licence address online on their website, then print a copy of this document and use it as your proof of residence.
Hi Louis
I am a pensioner over 70 do I require a form to be filled in by our GP and if so where can this
be got. I reside in Johannesburg and will probably use Ormonde testing station.
Many thanks,
David Gardiner
Hi David, we have had other pensioners also requesting this information. So far no one can confirm whether this is still required. Maybe some of our blog readers can add to this? We will update you on this if anything comes to light.
Hi David,
I am over 70. Did my renewal at Randburg recently, no medical was asked for.
The queue was long, as Randburg are now collecting unpaid traffic fines before they will renew your licence. I wonder if this is legal?
I was interested to note that they were happy to use a paypoint for the fines, but the licence fees must be in cash. This doubled the transaction time for us ‘law abiding’ motorists. Altogether a VERY frustrating day wasted in a queue.
Bruce, thanks for clearing that up!
The eNatis system is now connected to the RTI system so it is perfectly legal for them to refuse a licence based on outstanding fines.
I’m in JHB CBD were can i go to renewmy drivers licence
Hi Lindelani, not sure about the best venue in Joburg CBD. Will leave this open for other readers to comment.
Thanks for all the helpful info! I see Sibongile hasn’t left an update (license expired years ago), does anybody else know what happens if its over a year since the drivers license expired?
You’re welcome Wendy! As far as I know there isn’t a time limit to the expiration. You can simply go and renew it. Maybe there is someone else in this situation that can shed more light? Please comment here.
Hi Louise! I am a Zimbabwean and my drivers licence expires in April. I hold an expired residential permit that i recently renewed but still waiting for the collection date. Can i renew my card in that instance? Thank you man.
Hi Abinias, you will have to wait for your residential permit as it is your only valid SA Identification before you go and renew.
Hi Louis,
Thanks for a great list!
Just to add to your notes – the Edenvale licensing department now asks for a copy of your license when going to renew.
You’re welcome, Annika. Thanks for the info, will add to the notes.
Thanks for the info. Saves a hassle.
You’re welcome Neville, glad to help!
Hi Louis,
my husband and I are both going for renewals – I am 64 he is 65. Do we need doctors letter before we can apply?
Hi Jan, good news – this was confirmed by another 65+ user. You do not need any doctors letters. You can simply go and apply.
Hi Louis, thank you for the information – it is very helpful.
I receive my Telkom Account monthly via email – would that be regarded as an acceptable document, as it is not an “original”, but printed from my email?
Hi Rita, yes that should be acceptable. Please let us know if they give your any hassles as these things do change.
Hi Louis,
Ive done my drivers licence in July last year and was unable to collect because I moved to another Province. I called the station in question and they told me to go to the nearest station to renew it, what i want to know Im I going to be asked to to an eye test again
Hi Lekka, yes you have to do an eye test every time you renew your licence. You can do it at the testing centre.
Hi Louis
My drivers license expired on the 17th December 2017, can i still renew it end of this month? (26th March) or will it be cancelled ?
Thanks
Hi Brian. Your licence never completely expires. You will be able to renew it at the end of this month. There are no penalties if you renew it late. They might ask you very strongly to get a temp licence. It is not compulsory. If you keep your receipt it should be okay.
Thanks for the help Louis…much appreciated 🙂
Thanks for the info, it helped me be prepared! I have just been to Marlboro Licencing and the following is needed:
– ID (original)
– ID (copy)
– Current Drivers’ licence (copy) – although they used my original to check on my fingerprints which were problematic
– Proof of residence (or if not your own place, ID of owner with affidavit)
– 2 x photo’s (mine were colour – didn’t seem to matter)
– Green form to fill in from enquiries – I had printed an A3 and filled it in beforehand – waste of time, they want the green one
– Cost R228 (when asked if they took cards, he said “prefer cash”) which I had with me anyway
– Queues move quite well, got there 09h30, done by 11h05
Thanks, great info, Merle!
Currently at the pinetown office.been here from 7 this morning..only to be told now by officials that they only take 120 people a day to apply for a renewal license
Oh dear, sorry to hear about that Sandy. The limit must be a new rule!
Thank you very much. Really Appreciated.
You’re welome Makgoka!
Hi Louis
Thank you so much for this useful information.
I just recently got married and changed my surname. Do you perhaps know the procedures of changing my drivers license surname from my maiden one to my new one?
You’re welcome Sharon. You will need to do an application for a renewal. Do you have identification with your married surname? You will need your smart card ID with your new surname to apply for the new licence like a normal renewal. Hope this makes sense.
Good day ,
I am renewing my license tomorrow at the Bedfordview station _ please advise – do i need to take images (Pictures) how many do i need and what colour.
How much will i pay just to renew.
thank-you
Hi Tamzin, you will need – only 1 photograph (colour or black & white) is required in Johannesburg. The cost is R228.00 and payment is accepted either in cash or by credit card. Make sure you do not have any outstanding fines as they are connected to the national eNatis system and will not issue your licence with any outstanding fines to your name.
Hi there! My drivers license was stolen last year. I do have an affidavit stating this. It has expired at the end of 01/17 already and am guilty of not getting myself in order to update/replace anything. Monday is the day!
Can anybody give me the 101 on Edenvale dept? Or is it better to go to Bedfordview?
Thank u!! What a stunning blog!
Hi Loui I lost my ID book and my licence has expired can I use my passport as proof of identity?
Hi Nomsa, as far as I’m aware only the green barcoded ID book or smart card ID is accepted for proof of ID.
Hi Louis, thank you for this blog, it has given me some great tips, as I need to go an renew my license in April. I would like to know though, if I live in Alberton, but prefer going to Edenvale, would they assist me? I live close to Wadeville and Alberton, but I have heard that the service at these two facilities is terrible. I have been to Edenvale before without any problems, and I find them very helpful and efficient, but there have been rumours that the license departments won’t assist if you don’t live in another area.
Hi Lorna, as far as I’m aware you can go to any testing centre irrespective of area.
Just renewed at Edenvale. Had to pay R4900’s outstanding fines… werent aware of them… dating back to 2012…. couldnt get my license unless i payed.
Hi Rozaan, sorry to hear about all your outstanding fines. Some provinces, like Gauteng are already connected to the national fines database called eNatis. This means you cannot renew your licence if fines are outstanding. This is slowly rolling out in other provinces as well.
Hi
I currently live in Portugal and all my research is leading me to be personally present to renew my drivers license which has expired. I have tried contacting the Embassy here and they are unavailable, #bigsurprise, do you maybe have any ideas of feedback for me on how I can go about renewing my license card from Portugal.
I would really appreciate your help
thanks
Hi Candice, as far as I know you have to be physically present to renew your drivers licence. They take your fingerprints so you have to present yourself in person for the renewal. Unfortunately we do not know of another way. With fraud being rampant in the renewal process this seems to be the only way to go about it.
Hi Louis, Can one renew your driver’s licence at any licence station or do you have to go to the one in your area?
I just came back from the Akasia offices. I had to renew my expired driver’s license. I was in the queue at 06:05 and already about 30 people ahead of me in the queue. Sometime after 7 there was some movement in the queue up ahead. The security guys came out and organised another queue. It was a group of people with A4 forms (numbered declaration forms I learned later), they were the people who were not helped the day before. They were let in at abut 08:10, after the people who were there to do the learner drivers tests and appointments. Later, much later, they came out again and handed us numbered forms that we had to complete: ‘Declaration for driving license card renewal’. You have to complete your name, id no., write your physical address & sign it. I was no 24 on that list. We were let into the building at 9:00. The person next to me had an optometrist’s certificate but he still had to do theirs and stay in the queue with the rest of us. I was out at 10:39!
They required:
• original id,
• drivers licence card, and the
• completed declaration.
No proof of residence, no copy of the identity document and nobody said anything about a temporary drivers licence so I didn’t say anything about it either.
Thanks for the valuable info, Elfie!
CAN I renew my licence which has expired in 2009, if possible what will be required
Hi Judge, yes you can. You can just renew your licence as normal. Your licence cannot completely expire.
Hi, I was at the Centurion branch this morning from 07:00 to 12:00. They required one photo (black or colour) for the temporary licence (my licence had expired), my ID, the form (which they hand out while you wait in the queue), R300 (for the licence and the temporary licence) and I also took the certificate from the optometrist.
Apparently you can now book online at some branches in Pretoria (wish I had known before spending 5 hours in the queue – hopefully this can help someone): https://onlinecompanysa.co.za/book/
Thanks for the info Elmien! Yes, you are correct, have done a whole article about the new online booking system here: https://louisnel.co.za/blog/new-online-booking-system-to-renew-your-south-african-drivers-licence-2018/
Can anyone give me tips on applying at Camperdown KwaZulu Natal – apparently Pinetown has hectic queues now.
Hi Alison, have no experience with the Camperdown Testing Centre, hopefully someone else on here can assist.
After looking the info on this site (which is fantastic, a tremendous help!) I went to the Edenvale Centre yesterday for my licence renewal. A positive experience—unlike elsewhere in the past! It’s a modern, well-maintained building, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Although there was a long queue and some delays initially (I arrived at 9:00 am), there was a place inside for people to sit; and after a while pensioners were allowed to come to the front and go through first. There were three people manning the eye-test stations, so we were processed quite quickly. My downloaded form from the internet (using the link on this site) was accepted, and so was my optician’s certificate; and I was able to pay by card (R300 for both renewal and temporary licence). Altogether I was done in 2 hours—compared to 5 last time!
Admittedly I benefitted from being a pensioner. I don’t know how long it took for others waiting in the queue, but when I left they seemed to be going through at about the same speed I had.
Hi Steve, thanks for sharing your positive feedback!
Hi Steve, thanks for this I am opting for Edenvale now that I read your post. Where is the licencing department in Edenvale? Which street? Thank you in advance. Louise.
Hi Louis, so het ek Vrydag Rossburgh Toetsgronde in Durban aangedurf vir die henuwing van my bestuurslisensie. Ek was al 6:20 in die tou, en my nommer was nr 94. Toue mense het nog na my daar aan gekom. Geen vorms word uitgegee nie, a.g.v. bedrog. Eers as jy binne-in die vertrek ingaan. Wat ‘n fiasko! Om 8 uur het die ry begin beweeg, om net ‘n halfuur later te hoor dat die rekenaarsisteem baie stadig is. Daar was net een rekenaar in werking, by die oogtoets – foto -vingerafdruk gedeelte. Nodeloos om te se, ek is eers omtrent 2 uur ingelaat in hierdie vertrek. Maar toe word daar gespark, skieklik is daar 3 rekenaars wat werk, en nie lank daarna 4. Hulle het nog nie die kwota van 150 gemaak nie. Wat ‘n afgryslike dag. As my man nie in die ry gesit het, waar die betalings gemaak moes word nie, het ons seker eers omtrent half vyf daaruit gestap. Ons is half vier daar weg. Vyf jaar gelede het ek my lisensie by die einste gronde hernu, nie so vroeg daar opgedaag nie, en ek het amper by die deur gesit. Hopenlik in vyf jaar se tyd is daar ander sisteme in werking. ‘n Hele dag gemors net om een klein kaartjie te hernu!!!!!
Hi Alette, jammer om te hoor van jou aaklige ervaring. Rossburgh sal hulle diens moet verbeter, dit is onaanvaarbaar.
Hi thank you for this valuable information. However I would like to know if one can renew your driver’s licence at any licence station or do you have to do it in the area you reside? I have to go by the end of April to renew mine. I renewed it in Joburg last time but now I work in Kempton Park and would like to renew it in Kempton Park.
Hi Louise, yes you are able to renew your licence in another area. Good luck! Let us know how your experience went at Kempton Park.
Thanks so much Louis. However, I read on here someone went to Edenvale and it was a breeze so I think I am heading for Edenvale especially when I read that he never had to pay his fines!!. I have a couple on enforcement order which I believe you can get arrested for! I do intend paying them, well put it this way I have to. I am a pensioner and the sad thing is that they are not mine but families, the cars are all on my name though. Sucker that I am.
Hi,
Thanks for the very useful info. Double-checking on the lease agreement option: does one need an affidavit from the landlord, or will a current lease agreement with signature of landlord and your signature do the job? This is for KZN (probably Marianhill, as it seems a better option than Rossburgh for wait time).
Hi Sam, the FICA requirements are: “A copy of a signed lease agreement (by both parties), (less than 1 year old)”. No need for an affidavit.
Hi Louise, the sight is very helpful thanks for your efforts in helping us . Regarding the Pdp where can we hand in the forms, Centurion ? Akasia said they don’t do it anymore. they told us to go to Makopane which i found to be ridiculous to say the least We are several okes that want to get this done asp. thanks for your help.
Regards
Jack
Hi Louis
I am almost 70 years of age and my drivers license expires in June 2018.
The previous time I experienced problems at the Randburg station as I no longer
have any finger prints.
Kindly advise whether you recommend an alternative ways of renewing, eg going online to “the booking sa” and choosing 1 of the 4 available stations for an appintment.
Thank you
Dear Louis
I am most grateful for the information.
Thank you
Hi Louis. We are currently living/working in Mozambique and my husband’s licence expires on 4th July 2018. It seems we will only be able to go back to SA around the first week of August and then apply for the renewal. Is this going to be a problem to apply for the renewal so long after the licence has expired? Do they give one a Grace period? TIA for your reply.
please give me website address to download DL1 form and afidavid required as the municipal bill is in my husbands name
Hi Kathy, you can download a custom version of the DL1 form (A3) from this link: https://louisnel.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/DL1-2.pdf. We do not have a template for the affidavit as yet. You can use a standard affidavit format.
Hi guy’s
Thank you so much about this info, I don’t know what is going to happen there at licence dept. My driving licence has expired last 2017 march, till today I didn’t renewed reason being I was in out of hospital because of chronic illness and my feet’s where locked, I couldn’t walk properly without been assistant by someone. Now I’m better I can able to walk even though I’m walking like a duck, so as my licence has 13 months been expired what is going to happen with me? Secondly I had an PDP also expired 2014 and I went through all that process with police figure print and payments but I never had a chance to submit it also because of this hospital scenario. Plz guy’s what must do now, I’m worried about time date of my expired licence.
Hi Kgee, you can still renew your licence. It does not expire even if it is 13 months after the expiry date. You can renew your licence without any problems. As for the PDP, not sure what the process is here. Maybe we will do a PDP article in future.
Thank you so much Louis, I am relief now.
morning I have enforcement and I’m working well and I work as temporary driver, it hard for me to pay my fine due to my salary end of the month unless if i can do agreement with the department to pay R500 every month cause I can’t pay R10 000 cash to get my drivers license it a lot of money for me to pay it now….from Peter Mabena
Hi Peter, I also have fines on enforcement and when I queried if I could pay them off they said once they are on enforcement you can’t pay them off you have to pay the full amount before they will give you your licence. sorry. I hope you come right.
ill be going for renewal at hillstar Ottery Cape..
Can anyone please advise best time to go to avoid long queus..
do hillstar accept certificate from Spec Savers
Is it possible to renew a driver’s licence in a different province, with the proof of address of another province’ i.e. can one apply for a renewal any in South Africa?
Yes Ray, you can apply in any province. The problem with this is you have to fetch it from the same testing centre where you applied. I would not suggest this unless you will be in another province for longer than 4 weeks.
HI Louis
Thanks so much for such useful information.
I had fines on enforcement and paid all of them a few months back as I could not renew my car disc. Now I have a few “normal” fines. Do you think I will be allowed to renew my Drivers License or I will still need to pay those fines as well?
You’re welcome, Tembakazi! The eNatis system connected can see all fines, so I’m sure they will also apply to regular, outstanding fines.
Hi Louis, thanks for this valuable (and time saving) site. one of the comments above commended the Pinetown office. Is the Pinetown and Marrianhill offices one and the same?
You’re welcome, Rod. Yes, they are indeed one and the same office!
After waiting in the queue for two hours outside the building at Edenvale (moving 4 people every hour – at that point there were 24 people already inside, translating into a further six hour waiting period!!!) there was a notice at the door specifying in more detail what FICA docs are necessary. ONLY IF YOU ARE THE OWNER OF THE PROPERTY can you bring a municipal account less than three months old, which has your name and physical address on it.
I am a tenant, and even though I had a letter from my landlord confirming I am living on his property I was still turned away at that point as FICA requirements are as follows:
An AFFIDAVIT (signed letter not sufficient) from the landlord confirming that you are his tenant;
A municipal account (less than three months old) from the landlord reflecting his name and physical address of the premises you are renting.
This is exceptionally inconvenient for any landlord to be hassled with.
In an above comment you state that a TV Licence printout with one’s name and current physical address is good enough. I paid my licence in January valid for 2018 ie the payment is more than three months old. Would this still qualify as a valid ‘municipal account’?
Could somebody please confirm that a TV licence is acceptable?
I would so loathe to waste my time again. It’s unconscionable that these government departments expect law-abiding citizens to waste hours on end to keep official documents in order. And then the same waste of productive time to collect these documents. It’s absolutely no surprise that such a large number of the population just don’t bother.
Hi, I am from Port Elizabeth. Is it true that all outstanding fines has to be settled before you can renew your drivers licence?
Hi Karen, it is only true in some areas (Johannesburg) currently although this is going to be rolled out across the country soon.
will they accept a PDF bank statement from FNB as proof of address..its not stamped by the bank…its the emailed statement from FNB. please advise
Hi Calvin, they do not usually accepted PDF statements that are emailed. It has to be stamped by the bank and include your address.
Hello. I’ve just been to Winkelspruit RTA and was turned back. You have to be there by 7am. Only 300 applicants per day taken. Cost R250. Takes all day so you have to pack a lunch.
Sorry to hear about the disappointment, Jeremy. Thanks for the info!
Thanks for this article Louis,
I’m here in Edenvale’s license department.
Not sure if it was mention in any of the comments. For license renewal or expired one, if you are not SA citizen, you will need Traffic registration number certificate. If you don’t have one handy, go across the road to Vehicle and Registration Department, you can get a copy there or find out where you need to go to get duplicate. you will need your valid passport and visa and proof of residence.
Thanks for the info, Kristina!
And two passport photos.
Hi louis my license has expired in 14/09/2016 do i need to do the whole process again from learners or what’s the steps to renew my license.
Hi Aaron, your licence can never expire completely. You can renew your licence as per the normal process.
Between Bedfordview and Edenvale can you recommend which licencing department will be quicker and more efficient to have a driver’s licence renewed?
As for outstanding fines, is it true that you cannot renew your driver’s licence until such time as you have paid the outstanding fines?
Anyone else care to comment on whether Bedfordview or Edenvale is the best option? Yes, that is correct – the Road Traffic Inspectorate is now connected to the eNatis system and all outstanding fines are enforced.
More Louis–dankie vir al die inligting–help baie.Ek was vanoggend 06h15 by Rossburgh om my lisensie te hernu en 07h45 kom daar n stem oor die luidspreker en se daar is nie water by die stasie nie en dat ons almal maar moet huis toe gaan want hulle kan nie werk as daar nie water is nie.Omtrent 200 mense moes toe maar loop en weer op n ander dag probeer. 🙁 🙁
Hi Riaan, dit is nou ‘n teleurstelling, jammer om te hoor van jou slegte ervaring.
Hi’Louis, I will be going away when my renewal license will be due in August. Is it possible to get my Eye test now in May 2018 and try to get my renewal before August? Also do I need photos and how many will I need. ? Your kind assistance in much appreciated.
Hi Barbara, you can renew your licence around 4 weeks before the expiry date. I suggest you go in July about a month before your trip. You can have your eyes tested at any optometrist and then submit this at the testing centre. We have found the people who do the eye test in advance often have to sit in the same queue as the eye test so end up waiting. I suggest to save time and money and since you are well ahead of your expiry date to just do it at the testing centre.
Baie dankie, die inligting het my baie gehelp. Dis lekker om te sien dat daar mense is soos jy wat bereid is om hulle tyd af te staan om ander te help. Ek is seker dat honderde ander mense waardeer dit ook!
Dis net ‘n plesier, Yolanda!
Hi Louis,
Is there a grace period on expired drivers license?
Thanks,
Hi Thapelo, there is no grace period but also no fines for a late renewal. You can renew it as per normal renewal.
Goeiedag Louis
Ek het reeds op 3 Mei 2018 aansoek gedoen vir hernuwing van my bestuurderslisensie en bewys ontvang. My lisensie verval amptelik op 20 Mei 2018 maar dit blyk nou dat dit langer gaan neem om die nuwe lisensie te ontvang. Moet ek nou nog ‘n tydelike lisensie kry?
Baie dankie.
Haai Marius, jou kwitansie / bewys van hernuwing behoort voldoende te wees aangesien jy dit vroegtydig hernu het. Hou dit maar net aan jou persoon vir ingeval.
I visisted the Sandton Marlboro licensing office today. Having read all the feedback I went prepared for the long haul. But, what a pleasant surprise, from arriving the whole process took less than 40 minutes. My eye test from the optician was accepted and then I only had to do the thumb prints, which is done by the same section that test your eyesight if you don’t have the pre-test. This section also takes digital phtograph of you where you also sign a virtual pad. All quick.
From here it was through to Cashiers, which took less than 5 minutes. The price was R228 and R300 if you need a temp license.
If you don’t need a temp license you only need one photograph, if you need a temp then 2 pictures should be taken with. A certified copy of the ID is not needed, just a copy, but you are required to produce your original ID.
Proof of residence is checked at the entrance before they give you the DL1-2 form to complete, (prior to going through to have your eyes test and finger prints processed), this form is green and they wouldn’t accept the pre-prinited A3 white copy that I took.
In summary and perhaps because I was expecting a 3+ hour process this was a fast and efficient service. Well done Sandton and thank you!
As per my previous message, I arrived at the offices at 10H55.
Steve, thanks for sharing your positive experience!
AARTO has been successfully tested in Tshwane and Joburg. National AARTO rollout to proceed as soon as the AARTO Amendment Bill is passed. Then all RTI testing centres will be connected to the national fines database and you will not be able to renew your licence without settling your outstanding fines first.
In Pinetown, Durban, you require a SINGLE black and white photo for renewal of the drivers’ licence. Ridiculous really since they take your photo electronically anyway! And if you don’t arrive with a photo you are expected to fork out R50 for TWO photos taken with a sub standard camera by a “company” called “Liberty Studios” that operates out of a little prefab on the premises. Thank the Pope I only have to do this performance every 5 years!
Good Day I went yesterday to Harding Licencing Department KZN to be told they “only do renewals ” on a Thursday or Friday drove 60km from Port Shepstone with my aged father to be turned away and refused help with only 5 people waiting for other car licence issues who makes these rules on what days and why do they not tell us on Social medias or Television to check before you go I mean its the licence department why would it not be able to help you 5 days a week. Please advise Thank You
Hi Kelly, sorry for the terrible experience. Unfortunately there is no real, clear communication. It seems testing centres have different business hours and days. Can anyone advise on a good testing centre on the KZN South Coast please?
Thank you for this, it’s really helpful😊
Could you prehaps advise if there is a penalty fee if your license card has expired a few months ago? What is the implication in this regard. Understanding a large fine when stopped in a road block but just upon renewal.
Thank you in advance.
Have a lovely day.
You’re welcome, Amber. There is not penalty fee for late renewal. You can just go renew as per the normal process described above. I suggest you request a temporary licence if your licence has already lapsed.
Thank you very much. The information is very helpful.
Where in Gauteng is the quickest to get your drivers licence renewed?
My Mum is 76 years old and apparently she has to get our GP to complete a form to confirm that she is fit to drive. What is the form called? Also, one needs to take your ID as well as a copy of your ID – must it be a certified copy?
Thanks a million in advance.
Hi Vanessa, other users have confirmed – this is no longer needed. The copy of the ID does not need to be certified. Please let us know here if anything has changed!
Good morning
Im working in Limpopo but my home is in Rustenburg, Can I go to a Limpopo office to renew my drivers license? Do I use my North west address?
The company is renting accommodation here for us
Regards
Neels
Hi Neels, you can renew your licence in Limpopo as long as you are able to fetch the licence from the same office in 4 weeks from the renewal. You have to use your physical address in Rustenburg. If they question this just explain that you work away from home. Please let us know how it went.
Thank you! The best info I have found – other sites are useless!!!
You are welcome, Peta!
Thank you so much!
This was so useful. Renewing mine on Wednesday!
Let us know how it goes, Lee!
Thank you Louis! been a great help!
You’re most welcome, Ellie!
Thank you so much.
This helped a lot.
Glad this was helpful, Shei. Please share!
Hi.
Ek sien jou infrormasie is baie behulpsaam, ek wil net gou iets uitvind.
My lisensie en ID was gesteel – ek het n afskrif van my ID , maar ek moet nou my lisensie obviously oor doen. Ek was polisie statsie toe om n verklaaring af te le my woon adress is daarop, dit is gestamp ens, nou is my vraag;
Sal hulle dit aanvaar as proof of address ?
Hi Verochka,
Die dokumente wat aanvaar word as Bewys van Adres is baie spesifiek. Dit is gewoonlik state wat na jou adres gepos word. Elektroniese of email state word nie aanvaar nie:
* Utility bill, e.g. municipal water and lights account or property managing agent statement
* Bank statement from another bank on an official bank document or form
* Municipal councillor’s letter
* Tax certificate
* Recent active lease or rental agreement
* Municipal rates and taxes invoice not older than 3 months
* Account statement from a NCR (National Credit Regulator) registered service provider (NCR number must be visible/recorded on the document)
* Security service providers registered with PSIRA (Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority), e.g. Chubb, ADT (PSIRA number must be visible/ recorded on the document)
* Telephone or cellular telephone statement
* Official SARS document (not eFiling documentation)
* Valid television license renewal letter
* Television license renewal/confirmation letter
* Subscription TV, e.g. MultiChoice statement
* Home loan statement from another financial institution
* Long/short term insurance policy documents from another Financial Services Provider (FSB number must be visible/recorded on the document)
* Motor vehicle registration/license documents
* Body corporate/governing body letter or statement
* Official employer letter for employees residing on company/ institution premises
* Official university/technikon/college or tertiary institution registration letter
* Affidavit to confirm address (only applicable to individuals)
* Posted traffic fine from a Metro police department (E-toll statements are not accepted)
* Medical aid statement or policy document (policy number must be visible on the document)
Hello, I moved to italy for medical reasons and my drivers expired in 2014. Does this mean it is expired and i have to redo everything from the start? On some websites, it states that the card might be expired but the driver license itself isn’t.
Hi Alessandro, you are exactly right – only your card has expired. You can simply reapply as per the normal process.
One has to wonder what the point of all of this is. If it reduced the number of road accidents or general lawlessness on our roads – great. But somehow I don’t think it makes any difference. It seems to be just to get in extra revenue and make everyone miserable. Thanks for your advice.
Sigi, good point! Maybe it is time to review the current process / lack of process?
Hi Louis. I have applied for my license at the beginning of May 2018 and would be flying to Greece on 14 June 2018. My license expired on 30 May 2018. I have not received my new license yet and I am contemplating to go back and get a temporary license. I am renting a car in Croatia and need a valid license. Can you assist with the following two questions: 1. Can I go back after 4 weeks to get a temporary license which i declined on the day of applying for the renewal and 2. Would Croatia accept my temporary license for car rental purposes?
Hi Ettienne, as far as I know you can only apply for a temporary licence with a normal licence renewal application. The actual licence renewal usually takes 4 weeks so it should have arrived at the testing centre where you renewed. I don’t think temporary licences are accepted. Croatia relies on the International Driving Permit (IDP) and per the AA website you will need to provide your actual licence:
https://www.aa.co.za/products/membership/international-driving-permit
Hi Louis
Absolute valuable information thanks for your concise and helpful information. I need help as I renewed my license about 6 weeks ago, as it was not expired as yet I did not need a temporary license. I underwent emergency surgery and could only go and get my new license now. When I went to the Marlboro licensing office with my ID and old driver’s license they refused to assist me as I don’t have a receipt. Please advise what I can do to get my license without the receipt. Your urgent help welcomed.
Hi Nadia, you usually only need to present your old Drivers Licence on collection or show the payment receipt (not usually, I still have my receipt and they did not even request this). Did they not provide you with a printout after payment? This is very unusual.
Hi louis absolutely great information much thanks! Just two questions please…firstly can I purchase a car with the temp. Licence and also do you have any idea why its most expensive in kzn and cheapest in ct? The difference is like R65!
Hi Yahya, very good questions – firstly, the temp licence is a valid licence so it should be accepted for a car purchase. Please check with the dealership before you initiate the purchase. Secondly, I have no idea why the prices differ between provinces. Maybe another reader can shed some light on this.
Hi Louis wil net hoor of mens kan aansoek doen vir hernuwing van lisensie as jy jou oorspronklike ID verloor het, maar wel ‘n gesertifiseerde afskrif daarvan het? Het wel bewys van adres besonderhede asook oorspronklike bestuurslisensiekaart wat hierdie maand verval.
Hi, Someone gave me a regulation 101(2)(a) GRN 225 government gazette 20963 of March 200stating. “The period of validity of a driving licence issued or deemed to be issued in terms of section 18 of the NRTA shall be indefinite”
This comes from metro police officer and public prosecutor saying they cannot fine you if your licence has exspired. Section 1 of NRTA act 93 of 1996 refered to in Chapter IV
Hi Graham, thanks for this very interesting and relevant information.
Found a copy of the document: http://www.gauteng.gov.za/government/departments/community-safety/Documents/93%20of%201996%20NATIONAL%20ROAD%20TRAFFIC%20ACT_Regs%20GNR%20225_19%20Nov%202013%20-%20to%20date.pdf
There is another sub clause that states that licence is only valid until you receive your new licence for up to 3 months. That also settles the legal aspect of having to obtain a temporary licence.
Regulation 108(6)(a) Notwithstanding the provisions of subregulation (5)(a), where a person has applied for a new
driving licence card in the manner contemplated in subregulation (5) (b) on or before the expiry
date of the driving licence card held by such person and a driving licence of the person
concerned has not been suspended or cancelled, that card shall remain valid until the new
driving licence card has been issued in terms of subregulation (3) but not for more than three
months after the expiry date of such driving licence card.
hi there, its been 5 months since i renewed and got my temporary license. isit possible to still receive it or whats the cutoff before you have to pay a fine for late pick up.
Hi Kari, the licence is only kept for 6 months before it is destroyed. You should fetch it as soon as possible. No fines. They will just throw it away and then you will have to reapply.
My drivers license has been expired for more than 10 years, am I still able to apply for a Temporary License? I have been overseas & now back in SA, but was hoping to not go through the whole driving test / licensing all over again. Any advice would be great. ps: I have an Australian Passport & valid Aus. driving license, but I am also an SA citizen.
Hi Brett, good news – as per the Traffic Act your licence can never completely expire. You will not have to redo the driving test. You can simply renew your licence as per the described process.
Hi Louis, unfortunately I missed my license expiry date last year (2017-09) and Sasolburg offices seem to always be off line. Can I renew my license in Vanderbijlpark for example i.e. another province to where I live??
Hi Robert, you can renew your licence at any another testing centre, provided that you are able to fetch your licence from the same office after 4 – 6 weeks.
Hi Louis,
Thank you sooo much for this information, it really helped me alot. I was worried about everything I must take with me. I made an online appointment for Irene…hopefully everything will go well.
You’re welcome, Tinkie. Let me know how it went!
Good day
I would like to know what the cost is for renewal of a drivers license.
My fiance lost his license and ID book, what do we need to renew the license.
Can you please assist me as soon as possible
Regards
Martha
Hi Martha, the cost for renewal as per the article is R250. This is different for every province so check the article section on the costs. You can just say that his licence was lost, but he will need to replace his identification before doing the renewal, ie. get the smart card ID.
Hi Louis, my license expired last year 2017 July, I went to renew and I was told I’ve got outstanding traffic fines that needs to be paid before I renew my license. I now have funds to pay outstanding traffic fines, will they charge me a penalty fee since it’s almost 1 year already?
Hi Nelly – good news – there are no penalties for late renewals. If you settle your fines you will be able to renew.
Hi Louis,
Hope you’re well. Thank you for the very informative article.
I need to renew my driver’s licence but I haven’t updated my ID since getting married last year.
Will I be able to renew my driver’s licence with my marriage certificate even though my ID still reflects my maiden surname?
Hi Christine, I’m afraid you will have to update your surname on the smart card ID to your married surname. Also, take your marriage certificate along to verify that this is your correct married surname.
For KZN Mariannhill for a renewal. As of 2018/06/18 you will need: ID Book / Card, 1x Proof of Address, 1x ID photo (b&w or colour) and R250 cash.
Thanks for the update, Dylan!
Hi Good afternoon
What monies do we have to pay as a pensioner?
Hi Martha, there is only the normal renewal charge to be paid. Unfortunately no extra costs (or discounts) for pensioners I’m afraid.
Hi Louis . Thank you for all the given info .I went to the Randburg Licensing Dept today to renew my drivers .I was really stressed about having any outstanding fines ! i got there nice and early ( 7am ) and was quickly helped with my photos by a young man waiting at the entrance to the building ( R 60 for 4 ) .I then joined the line with about 12 people ahead of me .
They opened at 07h30 and what a suprise it was to be assisted so quickly .
All in all it took me an hour and forty minutes , got my temp and make a quick exit .
O , by the way , no mention of outstanding fines !!!!
Hi Mark, thanks for the positive feedback!
Thank You for an interesting read and taking time to respond to every question.
I need clarity please…
My sister got her drivers licence in Newcastle (kzn) in 2009, same year she was involved in a car accident and her left arm was left paralysed (she’s now only using her right arm only). So in 2014 her licence card expired and she never renewed it to date. Its 4 years later, is it possible that she can still renew her licence card? Will there be any restrictions because she lost her left arm?
Hi Sazi, very interesting question. She can definitely renew her licence even though it is 4 years later. There is no fine for late renewal. There might be restrictions applied to her licence due to her disability. Does she drive a manual or automatic car? I have not had any experience or feedback regarding this issue yet. Maybe some of our other blog readers can help with some advice. She will be able to renew at any department in Gauteng.
Thanks Louis…
We will go to the nearest licensing department, I hope there won’t be any hassles. She never driven since the accident but she’ll be buying a automatic car. I will provide feedback when we come back.
You’re welcome. Please let me know how it goes.
I forgot to mention that she relocated to Gauteng, can she go to any department around Gauteng?
Hi, I do not have any proof of residence. We are renting a house and I have the lease agreement… does anyone know, will a copy of that lease agreement suffice?
Hi Dee, a copy of a signed lease agreement (by both parties) that is less than 1 year old should be acceptable as proof of residence.
Is there any fines for late renewal. My licence expired end of April want to go tomorrow.
If so how much will it cost
Hi Hamish, there are no fines for late renewals. Only the renewal fees apply.
Thank you for this information.
Be advised that KZN, a sworn affidavit does not suffice as proof of residence
Hi Chris, thanks for the information!
Hi Louis,
My licence was in the very old ID book,will the licence still reflect on the new ID even though it does not show on the new ID. ?
Thanks for all the time and effort to help us out !!!
Hi Alec, I’m afraid the new smart card ID does not reflect the licence. You will have to renew your licence to be the driving licence card as well.
Hi Alec, I’m afraid the new smart card ID does not reflect the licence. You will have to renew your licence to be the driving licence card as well.
Thank you
Marlboro centre is closed for renovations until late August 2018!!!!
Hello –
Is there a process or possibility to renew my license from outside of south Africa? I currently live in Beijing china and my license will expire soon and I would like to renew so that when I return I will have a valid one.
Dean
Hi Dean, unfortunately this is not possible. With identity theft being rampant you have to present yourself in person to renew the licence.
Thanks for information.
I went to the Randburg Licensing Dept this afternoon at 1 pm and left at 3.30 pm. There was a queue but moving. I brought my own black and white photos but were not required at all! I believe I don’t need the photos if I don’t need the temporary licence, which I believe I do not need if my current licence has not expired yet. I understand the slip proving that I have renewed is good enough until I collect the actual driving card in 6 weeks’ time.
Thanks for the great feedback, Wan!
Hi
I renewed my drivers at the Randburg this morning 11/07/2018.
Cost: R228.00 (They do have a card machine)
DL 1 form can be printed and taken with you (saves time)
Green ID book plus certified copy
Proof of Residence (I used my lease agreement with the latest utility bill)
Black and white ID photos (I took 4 but they only used 1)
Eye Test (I did mine there which was quick and free)
I was there at 07:10 and walked out at 08:30, very efficient if you have all the correct documentation
Glad to hear about the efficient service, Warren. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Louis i wanted to know what if I lost my receipt before picking up my drivers license and I only have my ID. Would a copy of my bank statement work as i paid with my card? Cape Town
Hi Tanya, the receipt is not needed to collect the Drivers Licence. Usually the old licence is handed in or just your ID document / ID smartcard should be enough.
You rock! Thanks Louis.
You’re welcome, Diedre!
Hi
Just wondering whether the Randburg Licensing dpt. has a live capturing system to renew a stolen driving license or must one still take photographs and if so which kind for the temp and permanent license. Thanks.
Hi Cassim,
Randburg definitely requires photographs. Not sure if their system is “live”, presumably not.
* Cost: R228.00 (They do have a card machine).
* DL1 form can be printed from this article and taken with you to save time.
* Green ID book / Smart card ID plus certified copy
* Proof of Residence
* Black and white ID photos (They ask for 2 but they only use one 1)
* Eye Test – can do it there – it is quick and free!
Hi
I recently relocated and my license is due for renewal. I wanted to know if its possible to renew in a another province. And in terms of proof of residence, do I use the one used initially to acquire my license or my current one?
Hi Dikeledi. You can renew in any province of your choice. Since you live there now you won’t have a problem fetching your licence from the same testing centre. You will have to provide a Proof of Address with your new address so that your new licence can reflect this updated address. Hope this helps!
Hi Louis,
Thank you so much for publishing this article, it was incredibly useful for our drivers renewal. We just got back this afternoon from Camperdown Licencing Department (18 Old Main Road, Camperdown, Durban) and I thought I’d share what we found there.
They do not have photocopying facilities, so you must take a copy of your drivers and ID cards. They only require one B&W photograph. Their eye test machine failed my Mum on her eye test, so they told her to go and get a certificate from Specsavers or alike. We drove 20km to the nearest one which is in Hillcrest, and ended up at “Execuspecs” in Hillcrest, who didn’t charge us anything for the eye test. Mum passed the eye test there with no problems. We then drove back to Camperdown, had to cue again from the start, and then waited a long time to pay too. A lot of other people had failed the eye tests previously on their machines, only to pass them at Specsavers or otherwise, so I’d suggest people get a certificate done before going. Total time taken was 5 hours start to finish. We had packed water and food, which was a great suggestion, thank you for that. There is no shaded waiting area outside, so wear sunscreen too! Thanks very much for sharing, I hope my experiences help someone else.
Hi Jared – thanks for the positive feedback and for sharing with the community. There is obviously something very wrong with their eye test machine!
Five hours is a long time, glad you had a lunch packed.
Hi Louis, Do you perhaps know if we can do drivers License renewals on a Saturday, Edenvale/Bedfordview area?
This post was very helpful. Thanks.
I went to Langlaagte in Johannesburg this morning (26 Jul 18). The office opens at 7:30am, I got there at 8am and was done by 9am. Things I needed: Copy of ID (with new surname), Copy of Marriage Certificate (I needed to update my surname) and copy of old drivers licence/old ID with my old surname on it. Proof of residence wasn’t required. I needed a temp drivers licence; my 2 colour photos were accepted but black and white seemed to be sufficient as well.
Cost: R228 for the renewal and R72 for the temp licence.
I didn’t have a copy of my old driver’s licence with me but there is a shop across the road from the department where you can get a copy for R10. Took me 5mins to run across road, get the copy and get back. The shop looks quite dodgy but they have a really slick process set up, nothing to be scared of, I was impressed by my experience. The copy place is independent of the traffic department.
There’s no point in printing out in printing out a form beforehand, rather just use the one provided, its quick to complete while you’re there. The process: get the form from the front desk, complete and return it to the same desk with copy of ID, copy of old ID (if applicable) and copy of marriage certificate (if applicable). Then you need to go upstairs to do the eye test, fingerprints and digital photo, quick process. Then wait in another queue to pay and collect your temp licence. Easy peasy. The longest wait was to pay.
Lots of friendly people around to assist. Hope this helps.
Thanks for sharing the detailed experience, Pranisha!
Hello! Do you still need to take printed photos with you, or have they changed to biometrics now (Randburg Testing Station)? Thank you.
Hi Kel, Randburg still requires printed photos to be taken with. They require 1 black and white ID photo for the renewal, although photo printers will sell them to you in sets of 4.
Hi Kel, Randburg still requires printed photos to be taken with. They require 1 black and white ID photo for the renewal, although photo printers will sell them to you in sets of 4.
Oh thank you Louis. I needed this valuable information. I completely forgot that my license was expiring early in the year until i was fined for driving without a valid one. Then i googled and found your info.
Thanks. I have all i looking for.
You’re welcome, Nosi! I wrote this article because all the information online was either outdated or not complete.
You’re welcome, Nosi! I wrote this article because all the information online was either outdated or not complete.
Went to Randburg this morning – 07 August 2018
Was in the queue outside at 07:10, by that time there were already about 30 people ahead of me.
All done by 08:50.
They were not interested in the DL1 form I printed and completed, had to redo it on their green DL1.
Thanks for the feedback, Olaf. Glad you got it done! The reports of which departments accept the pre-printed DL1 form are spotty. We’ve even had the same department refuse the form depending which staff are on duty.
This has been a most useful sight to read, especially all the comments, they have all helped me tremendously, thank you Louis! Will let you know how it goes when I renew my recently expired drivers license at the Pinetown branch soon!
Thanks Cindy, please drop us a line with your experiences at Pinetown!
Just got turned away from Randburg Lic dep for the 2nd time today. This morning we did not have all the required documents and could not, for unexplained reasons, take the green forms with us to complete. My wife is highly pregnant, so I have to stay with her which is already a problem since they only allow the applicant in. This afternoon we got there a minute before 15:00 which was cutting it too fine but we don’t move fast for obvious reasons. She is due in 4 days and wont be able to stand in those queues in her state, her lic expires in November so its a given that it will expire before she can go back. After a futile outburst (Yes I know its pointless damnit!) we got sent to the dev ops manager that also does the digital photos. An arrogant useless stock standard government employee that is more interested in the detail of the exact time of our arrival that to help us. Her reply to us was that its fine my wife does not need a to drive in the next few months. We can not sit back and allow this decay of an already rotten system. There must be a viable way to protest and force a change?
Sorry to hear about your dreadful experience, Hein. It is no doubt that the system is in a dreadful state. My hope is that by sharing our experiences and spreading awareness through forums like this that change will eventually happen! All the best with your wife’s arrival.
Whew! THANK you. This was so helpful and clear!
Glad you found this helpful, Kelly!
Edenvale, like chalk and cheese to Randburg! All done and dusted in 3 hours. Saw a few tears but at least they have a list of required docs posted against the outside wall where the queues form. friendly(er) people and easy parking.
Glad to hear, Hein. Thanks for sharing! The list is a very nice touch. Other testing centres should do this as well.
Hi I will like to know what must I do because I’ve lost my job and change my address now.I want to renew my license. How much are they going to charge me
Hi Thandekile, sorry to hear about your job! You will have to take your updated proof of residence with your new address to the testing centre. Any document posted to you like a bill or bank statement. Also, the price is different for each province. From the article:
JHB / Pretoria: R228
Mpumalanga / Cape Town: R185
KZN : R250
To whom it may concern, approximately two years ago I was on the way to Witbank and had an accident .I was not seriously hurt but my son came to fetch me and insisted I go for a chest X ray. There were no broken bones however I was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer was admitted to hospital for surgery. There were some complications and I spent three months in hospital. During this time my drivers license expired. Unfortunately I the had a stroke and then experienced seizures. the doctor the told me I may not be able to drive. However I am on medication for the seizures and have been seizure free since then. I have seen a renewal form for a drivers license which has a section which a doctor can fill if an applicant has suffered from seizures in the past . KINDLY ASDVISE ME ACCORDINGLY.