In South Africa, drivers must have a valid driver’s licence to drive legally. If yours expires or is lost/stolen, you need a temporary driver’s licence during the waiting period for the renewal or replacement of the card. This guide will cover everything about applying for a temporary driver’s licence in South Africa.
What Is a Temporary Driver’s Licence?
A temporary driver’s licence in South Africa is a short-term document that allows you to drive legally while waiting for the issuance or renewal of your driving licence. This document bridges the gap when you’ve lost your licence or need to drive before your new one arrives. It’s a convenient solution that ensures you can maintain your mobility during these periods. The validity of a temporary driver’s licence is for up to six months. You can obtain a temporary licence at any driving licence testing centre in South Africa.
Who Needs a Temporary Driver’s Licence?
Drivers are required to have a temporary driver’s licence in the following situations:
- Lost or stolen licence: If your driver’s licence is lost, stolen, or damaged, you need to apply for a temporary licence to bridge the gap until you get a replacement.
- Licence renewal: Generally, you must renew your driving licence card four weeks before its expiry date. If you renew it after the expiry date, you will have to apply for a temporary driving licence to keep you driving legally while you wait for the renewal process.
How to Apply for South Africa Temporary Driver’s Licence
The process for obtaining a temporary driver’s licence is straightforward. Here are the steps:
Step 1. Gather the required documents:
- Completed driving licence (DL1) application form;
- Certified copy of your ID or temporary ID. Foreigners living in Mzasi can show proof of their traffic registration number;
- Proof of postal and residential address, e.g., utility bill;
- A letter with an official date stamp from the ward councillor confirming your residential address if you stay at an informal settlement;
- The required fees;
- An eye test result;
- Four black-and-white 35x45mm photos.
- Completed notfication of address change or organization (NCP) form.
Step 2. Visit your nearest DLTC:
Visit the nearest DLTC with the required documents. You may find the nearest driving licence testing centre to your location with Google Maps. Gauteng residents may apply for the licence online.
Step 3. Undergo an eye test:
The eye test can be done at the testing centre, or by a qualified optometrist before the application to quicken the procedure.
Step 4. Submit the application:
Submit the documents and pay the fees.
Step 5. Receive your TDL:
Once your application is processed, you’ll be issued a temporary driver’s licence immediately on the same day.
How to Apply for a Temporary PDP Licence?
For professional driving permit (PDP) holders, if your PDP application is being processed, a temporary PDP licence will be issued for short durations to fulfill your urgent commercial driving needs. To be eligible for a temporary PDP licence, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old;
- Hold a valid driver’s license for the relevant vehicle category;
- Pass a medical examination;
- Never had your driving licence suspended;
- Have no criminal records related to driving.
Here are the steps to obtain a temporary PDP licence:
Step 1. Gather the required documents:
- Valid driver’s licence;
- Identity document or passport;
- Proof of residence (e.g. utility bill);
- Medical certificate;
- Completed professional driving permit application form;
- The required fees;
- Four black-and-white 35x45mm photos.
Step 2. Visit your nearest DLTC:
Go to your nearest driving licence testing centre and submit the documents. Gauteng residents may apply for the PDP licence online.
Step 3. Undergo an eye test:
The eye test can be done at the testing centre, or by a qualified optometrist before the application to quicken the procedure.
Step 4. Submit the application:
Submit the documents to the DLTC and pay the application fees to the following bank account:
Account name: Ideco AFISwitch (Pty) Ltd
Bank: ABSA
Branch: Business Banking Johannesburg North
Account Type: Cheque
Account number: 4074078548
Branch code: 630256
Reference: ID number of the applicant.
Step 5. Collect a Police Clearance Certificate:
After payment, go to the nearest police station to request a Police Clearance Certificate to prove you have no criminal records.
Step 6. Collect your temporary PDP licence:
Once your temporary PDP licence is ready, you will be informed to collect it with an ID.
How to Get a Temporary Driver’s Licence Photo Online
When applying for a temporary driver’s licence, you need four 35×45 mm black and white photos that comply with the official requirements. While there are many places to get driver’s licence photos, like DLTCs and photo studios, a cost-free and time-saving option is to create your South Africa driver’s licence photo with AiPassportPhotos at home.
It is an online photo editing tool backed by advanced AI tech that ensures your driver’s licence photos 100% compliant with official requirements. Upload a photo you take to the website, and it will automatically run a compliance test and change the photo size and backgrounds online free. Within seconds, you can get a satisfactory driving licence photo for print.
How Long Does a Temporary Licence Last?
A temporary licence is typically valid for up to six months. During this period, you need to get your driver’s licence renewed or replaced, otherwise, you need to apply for another temporary licence.
How Much Is a Temporary Driver’s Licence?
The temporary licence fee may vary across municipalities. Generally, a temporary license costs between R54 and R94. You may contact your local licensing office for the temporary driver’s licence price.
Can a Temporary Driver’s License Be Renewed?
No, it cannot be renewed. It’s specifically designed as a short-term solution while you wait for your official renewed or replaced licence.
FAQs
Can you download a DL1 form?
The DL1 form is available for download from the eNatis website.
Can you rent a car with a temporary licence in South Africa?
A temporary driver’s licence may be refused if the renting location is unable to verify the customer’s identity otherwise or verify the authenticity of the temporary licence. Additional government-issued identification may be required.
How long can you drive with an expired license disc?
There is a 21-day grace period from the date of expiry of your driver’s licence. During this period, you are legally allowed to drive without facing any penalties, but it’s important to initiate the license renewal process promptly.
Conclusion
As a driver in South Africa, chances are you will need a temporary driver’s licence while waiting for your driver’s licence renewal or replacement. By following the guidelines on the TDP application process, you should be able to obtain one hassle-free.