Driving in South Africa? Carry your license or risk a R500 fine
Traffic officer checking driver’s licence at roadside stop.
If you’re driving on South African roads, this is a crucial reminder: always carry your original driving licence. Recent enforcement operations in Cape Town have revealed a worrying number of motorists unable to produce their licences, resulting in fines and legal trouble.
Enforcement Operations Uncover Alarming Trends
During a recent operation in Cape Town’s Central Business District (CBD), city traffic officers recorded 164 traffic violations. Shockingly, 54 motorists were caught without a valid driving licence. The city has issued a stern warning: photocopies and digital images of licences are not acceptable. The only valid proof behind the wheel is your original licence card.
If you’re found driving without your original licence, you face a R500 fine. For those who have lost their licence or had it stolen, carrying proof of a new application is essential. This also applies to drivers caught up in the ongoing delays with licence card printing — a valid temporary licence or official application proof must be presented to avoid fines.
JP Smith, Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, commented, “It’s quite alarming to realise how many people are driving without valid licences or proof of a valid licence. While it might seem trivial, officers are duty-bound to enforce the law.” He further warned that unlicensed drivers pose a serious risk not only to themselves but also to other road users.
Printing Delays and the Licence Backlog
The licence card issue is compounded by a significant backlog at the national level. Earlier this year, South Africa’s sole licence card printing machine was out of service for several months, creating a huge queue of unprinted licences. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy revealed that the backlog currently stands at over 730,000 cards, though some progress has been made since May.
The ageing printing machine—now over 26 years old—has suffered over 160 breakdowns during its lifetime, causing frequent delays. While plans for new, modern printing machines exist, the tender process has faced setbacks, including investigations into irregularities in awarding contracts worth R900 million. As an interim measure, the Department of Transport is collaborating with the Government Printing Works to help clear the backlog.
Recent Traffic Crackdowns and Road Safety Concerns
The problem of unlicensed and unlawful driving is just one aspect of the broader traffic safety challenge. Over the past week alone, Cape Town’s traffic officers recorded nearly 50,000 offences for various violations, executed 1,845 warrants, and impounded 239 public transport vehicles.
Of particular concern is the arrest of 19 drivers for driving under the influence and others for serious offences such as driving stolen vehicles and presenting false documentation. These incidents underscore a troubling disregard for road safety laws among some drivers.
JP Smith emphasised, “The presentation of your physical driving licence card is the only way to prove that you are legally behind the wheel. Digital copies don’t count.” He urged motorists to keep their original licence or valid proof of application on hand at all times.
What You Need to Know
- Always carry your original driving licence. Photocopies and digital images will not protect you from fines.
- If your licence is lost or stolen, keep proof of your new application on hand. This is vital, especially during the current card printing delays.
- Expect heavy enforcement on the roads. Authorities are cracking down on unlicensed drivers and other dangerous behaviours.
- Stay informed and cooperate. Reporting criminal activities and unsafe behaviour helps make roads safer for everyone.