Staff Writer28 July 2021  Top of Form

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged motorists to renew their licences before the grace period deadline at the end of August.

The national lockdown imposed on the country last year forced licencing centres to close, resulting in a backlog of expired licences.

Transport minister Fikile Mbalula subsequently announced an extension for these licences.

All learner licences, driving licence cards, temporary driving licences and professional driving licences that expired between 26 March 2020 and 31 December 2020 were made valid for a grace period ending 31 August 2021, the RTMC said.

“As the deadline fast approaches, members of the public are encouraged to take advantage of the extended operating hours at various licensing centres to renew their licenses before the deadline.”

The group said that motorists should have the following documents ready when applying for their driving licence:

• Original ID and a copy, old driving licence card or valid South African passport
• Four black and white ID photographs
• Proof of residence
• Licence renewal fee.

“Do not wait until the exact expiry date before considering to renew your vehicle or driving licence,” the RTMC said. “Allow at least four weeks lead time from date of application for the delivery of your driving licence card.”

The group said that motorists should also apply for their driving licence early to avoid having to apply for a temporary driving licence at an additional cost.