Have Your Say: Proposed Changes to Driving Licence Card Validity
The way South Africans renew their driving licence cards could soon change. The Department of Transport has published proposed amendments to the National Road Traffic Regulations that could extend the validity of driving licence cards for private motorists and motorcyclists from 5 years to 10 years.
At first glance, this may sound like a straightforward improvement — fewer renewals, fewer trips to the Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC), less time spent in queues and potentially lower administrative costs for motorists.
The important facts to consider
The proposed changes raise questions around the following items:
- The 3-month grace period after a licence card expires
- The exclusion of heavy commercial and public transport drivers
- Renewal processes
- Government processing delays
- Lastly, what happens if a motorist has complied with the renewal requirements but has not yet received their replacement card?
These regulations could affect millions of South Africans, which is why your voice matters. DearSA is inviting members of the public to review the proposed changes and share their views before the public participation process closes on 19 September, 2026.
Don't simply accept the change — help shape it.
Take a few minutes to understand what is being proposed, answer our short survey and share your views on what government should consider before the regulations are finalised. All submissions are delivered directly to government on your behalf.
Why Your Participation Matters
A driving licence is something that affects millions of South Africans — whether you drive to work, transport your children, run a business, operate a fleet or rely on public and commercial transport.
Public participation gives citizens an opportunity to influence how these changes are ultimately implemented.
DearSA encourages you to consider both the benefits and potential unintended consequences of the proposed regulations and to make your voice heard.
Read. Consider. Participate.
Your opinion could help ensure that the final regulations are practical, fair and work in the interests of South African motorists.
