New South African Driver’s Licence Delays: What to Know
Understanding the Delays in South Africa’s New Driver’s Licence System
Read more about changes to the driver’s licence in SA, including new card design, delay in issues, and implications to motorists.
Greetings drivers in South Africa! There is a lot of ‘stir’ as our system for issuing driver’s licence is changing for the bigger. The government had envisaged the new smart driver’s licence cards to be out by 2023 in a bid to adopt a new security system.
These cards were intended to have watermarks and biometrics to decrease the rate of fraud.
But guess what? There have been some hiccups. The procurement of new printing machines has been given a soca by the tender process and controversies. The Department of Transport awarded the tender of producing the new cards to Idemia Identity and Security South Africa but the process was hampered by allegations of tender irregularities that escalated the problem.
Well then what does this all mean for you? If your need a renewal or a new driver’s license, then be prepared to wait longer. Today’s structures are still carrying an aged printer, which has a tendency to develop hitches, and hence, work delays.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| New Card Features | Enhanced security with watermarks and biometrics. |
| Tender Delays | Issues in the tender process have slowed down the rollout. |
| Current System Problems | Reliance on outdated printers causing backlogs and delays. |
| Impact on Drivers | Longer waiting times for new or renewed licences. |
| Government’s Next Steps | Investigations into the tender process and seeking solutions to expedite the rollout. |
In the meantime, it’s a good idea to plan ahead. If your licence is nearing expiration, start the renewal process early to avoid any inconveniences. Keep an eye on official announcements for the latest updates.
fellow South African drivers! Big changes are coming to our driver’s licence system, and it’s essential to stay informed. Starting January 2025, the Department of Transport is rolling out a new driver’s licence card with enhanced security features like watermarks and biometrics to combat fraud.
