Motorists have been searching for clarity on free temporary driving licences following recent government announcements. While the Department of Transport promised relief, not every driver qualifies for the fee exemption.
What Are Free Temporary Driving Licences?
A temporary driving licence is a legal document that allows you to drive while waiting for your renewed or replacement card. It is valid for six months and is normally issued within a day at a Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC).
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While it is often mistaken as a universal “free service,” most applicants still need to pay the R72 fee, unless specific conditions are met.
Who Qualifies for Free Temporary Driving Licences?
Not every motorist qualifies for the fee waiver. The Department of Transport clarified that the exemption applies only under the following three conditions:
- Your driving licence expired between 5 February and 8 May 2025, when the national printer broke down.
- You applied for a temporary licence within three months of your licence expiring.
- You applied after 23 July 2025, when the exemption officially took effect.
“The Minister and MEC took a decision on 27 June 2025 to waive the R72 fee … [but] it only took effect on 23 July,”
— Collen Msibi, Spokesperson, Department of Transport
Why the Fee Exemption Was Introduced
In early 2025, South Africa’s only driving licence card printer suffered a major breakdown. The machine was out of service from 5 February to 8 May, causing a massive backlog of nearly 760,000 unprinted cards.
This left thousands of motorists unable to get their new licences on time, prompting government action.
“The crisis will continue unless new printers are procured,”
— Statement by AfriForum, a civil action group
What If You Don’t Qualify?
If you don’t meet the criteria above, you will still need to pay R72 for a temporary licence. This includes most motorists whose licences expired outside the specified window.
AfriForum confirmed with both the RTMC call centre and two Gauteng DLTCs that the fee still applies in most cases.
How to Apply for a Temporary Driving Licence
To apply for a temporary licence at a DLTC, bring the following:
- A certified copy of your ID
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill)
- Four black-and-white ID photos (verify with your DLTC)
- Completed DL1 form
- Completed NCP form
- Eye test results or have one done at the DLTC
Most DLTCs in Gauteng can issue the licence on the same day.
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Can a Temporary Licence Be Used as ID?
Yes, under specific conditions. Due to the ongoing licence backlog, the Department of Transport instructed airlines and other institutions to accept expired or temporary licences as valid ID if:
- You applied for a new card before your licence expired
- You can show proof of application or a receipt
- You applied for a temporary licence if the original had already expired
“Airlines should accept expired licence cards as ID under these circumstances,”
What to Do If You Face Rejection or Delays
If a DLTC refuses to waive the fee despite you meeting the criteria, AfriForum recommends seeking legal recourse. The organisation is currently exploring court action to compel the enforcement of the ministerial decision.
“This is, although Barbara Creecy has already promised in Parliament that the fee will be scrapped,”
Always Check Before You Apply
While free temporary driving licences are now available, they are not guaranteed for everyone. It’s essential to confirm whether you qualify based on your licence expiry date and application timing.
