South Africa approves 10-year driving licences for motorists

South Africa has approved 10-year driving licences for light motor vehicles and motorcycles after Cabinet endorsed extending the validity period from five years.

The announcement was made by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni during Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, as broadcast by SABC News and Newzroom Afrika.

WATCH | Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says Cabinet has approved extending the validity period of certain driver’s licences from 5 to 10 years. pic.twitter.com/RPB05eejrm

SABC News (@SABCNews) July 30, 2026

‘The change aligns with international best practice, enhances administrative efficiency, reduces the frequency of renewal for motorists and eases demand pressure within the licensing system,’ Ntshavheni said during the briefing.

The approval applies to ordinary driving licence categories A, A1, B and EB, covering motorcycles and light motor vehicles. Professional driving permits and licences for heavy and commercial vehicles will continue to follow their existing renewal periods, Newzroom Afrika reported.

The decision is expected to reduce pressure on driving licence testing centres by cutting the number of renewals motorists need over time. Government must still amend the relevant legislation before the new validity period can take effect.

Motorists whose licences expire in the coming months should continue following the current renewal process. The existing five-year validity period remains in force until the an implementation date is announced by government.