Local Solutions Could End South Africa’s Driver’s Licence Backlog

Backlog Hits Half a Million Drivers

AfriForum spokesperson Louis Boshoff says the delay is not due to technical limitations, but a lack of decisive action. The department’s old printing machine frequently breaks down. Earlier this year, it was out of service for months, creating a backlog that reached 747,748 cards. Even after repairs in May, over half a million drivers remain without valid cards.

Local Alternatives Are Ready

Boshoff highlighted that local printers can produce driver’s licences with all required security features. AfriForum demonstrated PVC licence cards outside the department’s offices, showing that solutions exist without relying on foreign contractors.

The department had previously named French company Idemia as the preferred bidder for new printers. But the deal stalled due to irregularities in other contracts and concerns over data protection. Nine months later, no progress has been made.

Political Roadblocks vs. Service Delivery

AfriForum argues that political delays are worsening the problem. “It appears that the government prefers to drag out the procurement process at the expense of service delivery,” Boshoff said. He insists local options could solve the backlog immediately while maintaining security standards.

Looking Ahead

The Department of Transport has expressed hope that the current backlog will be cleared by December. AfriForum believes that leveraging local providers could accelerate this process and prevent similar crises in the future.

For now, thousands of South African drivers continue to wait for licences, highlighting the urgent need for practical solutions.

{Source: IOL}

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