Renewing your driver’s licence is a necessary step to ensure that you can continue driving legally in South Africa. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of renewing your driver’s licence, making it a straightforward task that keeps you on the road without any hassle.
Step 1: Understand the Renewal Timeline
It’s crucial to renew your driver’s licence four weeks before its expiry date. If you renew it after the expiry date, you’ll have to apply for a temporary driving licence at an additional cost while waiting for your new driver’s licence to be issued.
Step 2: Note the Key Requirements
When renewing your driver’s licence, you won’t be required to take a driving test. However, you’ll undergo an eye test, and your fingerprints will be taken.
Alternatively, you can opt to have your eyes tested by an optometrist and submit the eye test report at the Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC). If your vision has deteriorated since your licence was initially issued, new conditions may be added to your licence.
Step 3: Gather the Required Documents
Head to your nearest DLTC with the following essential documents and items:
- Your identity document (ID) and a copy of your ID, your old driver’s licence card, or a valid South African passport.
- Four black-and-white ID photographs (confirm the quantity with the DLTC before taking the photos).
- Proof of residential address, such as a utility account. If the utility bill is not in your name, the owner of the bill must make an affidavit declaring that you reside at the address, and the utility bill must be attached to the affidavit.
- If you live in an informal settlement, you’ll need a letter with an official date stamp from your ward councillor confirming your residential address.
- The prescribed application fee.
Step 4: Complete the Necessary Forms
At the DLTC, you’ll need to complete the following forms:
- Form DL1: Application for renewal of the driving licence card.
- Notification of change of address or particulars of a person or organization (NCP) form.
- If you reside in Gauteng, you have the option to apply for the renewal online here.
Step 5: Undergo an Eye Test
Part of the renewal process involves an eye test. You can either have this done at the DLTC or choose to visit an optometrist of your choice for the eye test. Ensure you take the results to the DLTC.
Step 6: Waiting Period and Cost Inquiries
Your new driver’s licence will be ready within four to six weeks. If you have any questions regarding the cost of renewing your driver’s licence, contact your local licensing office for specific details.
Renewing your driver’s licence in South Africa is a straightforward process that doesn’t require a driving test. By following these simple steps and ensuring you have the necessary documentation, you can quickly renew your driver’s licence and be back on South African roads in no time.