South African motorists could soon spend far less time renewing their driving licence cards, with the government moving ahead with plans to extend the validity period from five years to 10 years.
The proposed change applies to Codes A, A1, B and EB, covering motorcycles and light motor vehicles. Cabinet approved the extension earlier this year, and the Department of Transport has since moved the proposed amendments forward for consideration.
The move is expected to reduce pressure on driving licence testing centres, cut down the number of renewal visits and improve administrative efficiency. However, motorists should not stop renewing their licences under the current system. The 10-year validity period will only take effect once the necessary legal amendments have been finalised.
The change will not apply to heavy vehicle licences or Professional Driving Permits. Heavy vehicle licences will continue under their existing renewal periods, while Professional Driving Permits will remain on a two-year cycle.
For millions of motorists, the move to 10-year licence cards could mean fewer queues, lower administrative costs and a much more convenient renewal process.
Main image: Daily Investor
