Having just been through the procedure of renewing my driver’s license, I thought I’d make it easy for you and let you know exactly what you need to do!

The first thing you should do is check the expiry date on your license. Don’t wait until your license has expired before renewing it as this will cost you extra – you will need to purchase a temporary license and get two extra ID photos done as well.

I arrived at the offices when they opened at 7.30am and I was finished by 8.30am which included me having to have my mug shots taken! I suppose it depends which branch you go to – some places will take a lot longer than others but wherever you go, its best to get there early!

If your license has expired, apparently you have a 2-4 week grace period in which to renew it before being charged extra.

I renewed my license before it expired and the total I had to pay was R185 and I only needed 2 photos. The cashier said to just carry the receipt with me and there was no need to purchase a temporary license.

This is what you need:

  • Old driver’s license
  • ID Book
  • Black and White Photos (2 for the license and 2 for the temporary license if you need one)
  • Pen (take your own as these are very scarce at the licensing centres!)
  • R185.00 Cash (take extra just in case). You will need R40 extra to purchase a temporary license.

Procedure:

  1. Complete the green form and join the queue
  2. You will then do an eye test and have your fingerprints taken
  3. Proceed to the cashier where she will process the renewal and take your old license from you.
  4. Make sure you keep your receipt in your wallet – this will act as proof that you are awaiting your license should a traffic officer stop you on the road

And that’s it, now you just need to wait until they send you a notice in the post which should take 6-8 weeks. If you have not received anything after that time, call the testing centre and ask query the matter.

How do I renew my drivers licence when abroad?

“It is currently not possible to apply for the Credit Card Format (CCF) licence from abroad. You must renew your licence at Driving Licence Testing Centres. However, the Department of Transport will not charge you a penalty fee if you have proof that you were abroad during the conversion period. Information on how to renew your licence is available on the South African Government Services website in all South African official languages.”

Answer to yesterdays puzzle: Making up for lost time.