South Africa is grappling with a major driver’s licence card backlog, with no clear resolution in sight. The crisis was recently acknowledged by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, who revealed that the Department of Transport (DoT) is working to resume printing. This suggests that the country’s ageing card printing machine is once again out of order.

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However, this backlog is just one of several pressing issues facing the department, alongside a potential workers’ strike and concerns over a controversial tender for a new licence card printer.

Recurring Backlog and Outdated Equipment

Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, Creecy emphasised her concerns about the backlog, confirming that temporary cards are being issued to affected motorists. She highlighted the long-standing problem of relying on a single, outdated machine—more than 25 years old—that has repeatedly broken down over the years.

“The existing machine is very old. We are focusing on maintenance to restore printing, but I have also asked the acting director general to explore interim solutions,” Creecy explained.

While the DoT has not officially confirmed another breakdown, Creecy’s remarks strongly suggest that the machine’s unreliability is contributing to the crisis.

Worker Strike Threatens Further Delays

Adding to the department’s woes, the Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) workers have threatened to strike over long-standing employment grievances.

In early March, workers demanded permanent positions and full employment benefits, stating that they had been promised secure jobs nearly a decade ago. If their demands are not met, they have warned that they will halt all licence production.

DoT spokesperson Collen Msibi acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating that the department is working towards a solution but cannot afford a strike that would bring operations to a standstill.

“There is an HR workstream in place working on an organisational development plan, and we are aiming to implement a framework to transition DLCA workers into permanent roles,” Msibi said.

Public Frustration Over Driver’s Licence Delays

The ongoing crisis has sparked frustration among South African motorists, many of whom have been waiting months for their driver’s licence cards. Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints about the delays, with some drivers expressing concerns about the validity of temporary permits.

Driving schools and fleet operators have also raised concerns, as the backlog affects individuals and businesses that rely on valid licence cards for their operations. Many fear that continued delays will worsen congestion at licensing centres, creating further inefficiencies in the system.

Government’s Next Steps

Beyond the driver’s licence backlog and potential strike, the DoT is also facing scrutiny over its appointment of a new licence card printer.

In August 2024, the department awarded the tender to the French company Idemia, but civil action groups quickly flagged concerns over the selection process. A subsequent investigation by the Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) confirmed multiple irregularities, including inconsistent bid criteria, unclear specifications, and an incorrect budget cap.

As a result, the tender remains in limbo, with the department awaiting a court decision on the next steps. No funds have been spent on the contract, as the Public Finance Management Act prohibits proceeding with a project under scrutiny. However, cancelling the tender entirely would require paying a penalty to Idemia, leaving the DoT in a difficult position.

To seek clarity, Creecy has approached the High Court for guidance. Until a resolution is found, South Africa remains dependent on its single, ageing printer to issue thousands of new licence cards.