Validity of expired licences extended

MINISTER of Transport, Fikile Mbalula, announced that all learner’s licences, driving licence cards, temporary driving licences and professional driving permits that expire between 26 March and 31 August 2020 will be deemed valid until the end of January next year.

Vehicle licence discs, temporary permits and roadworthy certificates that expire during the same period are valid until 31 August.

ALSO READ: ANC mourns death of Jozini councillor

These amended regulations were gazetted yesterday (Wednesday).

The amendments have been welcomed by the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA), which had called for the extension, stating motorists needed some ‘breathing space’ for renewals.

‘Tens of thousands of concerned South Africans signed our online petition which urged the government to extend the period,’ said CEO of the AA, Willem Groenewald.

‘At the time, we noted that motorists wanted to be compliant and remain on the roads legally, but that they were experiencing problems doing so.

‘We must thank all of those motorists for being active citizens and for playing their part.’

Groenewald, however, urged drivers with expired licences to ‘not waste the opportunity’ and get them renewed sooner rather than later.

‘We believe much can be done, between now and the end of January, to clear backlogs,’ he said.

‘If there are still issues with renewals at that time, government will need to consider a further extension, beyond the end of January 2021, to ensure everyone is accommodated fairly.’

HAVE YOUR SAY

Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.

For news straight to your phone invite us:

WhatsApp – 060 784 2695

Instagram – zululand_observer