The Department of Transport is facing renewed challenges after the country’s sole driving licence card printer broke down, causing significant delays and a growing backlog in licence production.
In response, the department has implemented interim measures, including the issuance of temporary driving licences to ease the impact on motorists. Meanwhile, the Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) is working closely with the equipment’s supplier in France to carry out urgent repairs, with a resolution expected within two to three weeks.
The incident has reignited concerns over the department’s ageing infrastructure and procurement practices. A recent tender process for new printing machines was flagged for irregularities, raising serious questions about the department’s ability to modernise and prepare for future demands.
Motorists are advised to carry their expired licences and apply for temporary permits while the backlog is being addressed.
The current disruption follows a series of technical failures that have long troubled South Africa’s licence application and renewal system, exposing deeper systemic issues within the department.
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