In a significant move aimed at modernising South Africa’s driver licensing system, the Department of Transport has officially begun the rollout of its much-anticipated Smart Driving Licence Cards.
The announcement, made earlier this week, marks a major shift from the current driving licence system, which has remained unchanged for nearly 25 years.
A Modern Upgrade for SA Drivers
The new smart cards are expected to replace the existing driving licence cards, which have long been criticised for being outdated and prone to fraud. According to the Transport Department, the updated cards will come embedded with advanced security features, digital technology, and the capacity to store more driver data securely.
Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga, during the official briefing, emphasised that the smart card will align South Africa’s driver documentation with international standards. “This is not just a card; it is part of our digital future,” she said.
Key Features of the New Smart Driving Licence Card
The updated driving licence card comes packed with a number of innovations:
- Microchip Technology: Stores driver data including photo, biometrics, and licence history.
- Enhanced Security: Anti-fraud features such as encrypted QR codes and holograms.
- Durability: A longer lifespan compared to current cards, which have a five-year validity.
- Machine-Readable: Can be scanned quickly at checkpoints or during traffic stops.
Authorities say the card will also allow for quicker renewals and integration with other digital platforms in the future, such as mobile apps and smart verification systems.
Pilot Rollout Underway
The Transport Department has confirmed that a pilot rollout phase is already underway, starting from 1 November 2024, and will continue until the end of March 2025. Selected testing centres in Gauteng and the Western Cape are among the first to issue the smart cards to eligible drivers.
Full national rollout is expected to follow in April 2025, with all current driving licence cards being phased out over a period of five years. Current cards will remain valid until their expiry dates.
What Does It Mean for South African Drivers?
While there’s no immediate requirement for drivers to upgrade their cards, those applying for new licences or renewals will gradually be issued with the smart card. Motorists are advised not to rush to licensing centres unless their current cards are due to expire soon.
For many, the announcement has raised questions about cost and accessibility. The Department has assured the public that pricing will remain affordable and comparable to the existing fee structure. Specific fee announcements are expected closer to the national launch.
Reaction from the Public and Experts
The move has been met with mixed reactions. Some motorists have welcomed the change, citing the need for better technology and stronger anti-fraud measures. Others have raised concerns about data privacy and whether the rollout will be smooth in more rural areas where digital infrastructure is limited.
Driving school owner Thabo Mokoena, based in Johannesburg, said, “Anything that improves road safety and streamlines administration is good. But we’ll need to see how it actually works on the ground.”
Meanwhile, IT experts have praised the smart card’s design, especially its encrypted data storage and compatibility with global digital standards.
Also Read:- May Power Bill Shock: Electricity Tariff Adjustments Hit Households Across South Africa
Looking Ahead
The rollout of the new Smart Driving Licence Card is part of a broader push by the South African government to digitise public services and enhance service delivery. Alongside the new card, the Transport Department is also planning to modernise its online booking systems and introduce mobile testing units in remote areas.
While the full impact of the new smart card remains to be seen, it certainly marks a step forward in the country’s transport and licensing system. For now, South Africans are advised to stay updated through official channels and avoid unofficial sources of information or fake cards circulating online.
