10-Year Driving Licence in South Africa: What Cabinet Approved and When It Starts
What Was Approved
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date approved | 30 July 2026, by Cabinet |
| Codes covered | A, A1, B and EB |
| New validity | 10 years (now 5 years) |
| Heavy and public transport codes | No change: 2 or 5 year renewal cycles stay |
| Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) | No change: still renewed every 2 years |
| When it starts | Only after the law is amended and published |
Which Licence Codes Are Covered?
| Code | What you may drive |
|---|---|
| A1 | Motorcycles up to 125 cc |
| A | Motorcycles over 125 cc |
| B | Light motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg, such as most cars and bakkies |
| EB | A light motor vehicle towing a trailer of more than 750 kg |
If you have a code C1, C, EC1 or EC licence for heavy vehicles, your renewal cycle does not change.
Why Is the Change Being Made?
The government says a 10-year card will mean fewer renewals, less pressure on Driving Licence Testing Centres and shorter queues. Driving licence card production has had long delays in the past, partly because the card printing machine is old. The Department of Transport is working on a new card and machine.
When Will 10-Year Licences Start?
There is no start date yet. Before it can start:
- The draft legal changes go through legal checks and public comment.
- The final rules are published in the Government Gazette.
- Only then will new cards be issued with 10-year validity.
Until that happens, the five-year system stays in place.
What You Must Do Now
- Check the expiry date on the front of your card.
- Renew before it expires. Do not wait for the 10-year rule.
- Book at your Driving Licence Testing Centre or online where your province allows it.
For the steps, documents and fees, see how to renew your driving licence. If you drive for work, see the Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) guide.
Will My Current Card Be Extended Automatically?
This has not been announced. Until the final rules are published, assume that your current card expires on the date printed on it.
10-Year Driving Licence Questions
Is the 10-year driving licence law in place?
No. Cabinet approved the plan on 30 July 2026, but the law must be amended first.
Do I still need to renew my licence card every five years?
Yes, until the new rules take effect. Renew before the expiry date on your card.
Which licence codes will get 10-year validity?
Codes A, A1, B and EB, for motorcycles and light motor vehicles.
Will my PrDP also last 10 years?
No. The Professional Driving Permit stays on a two-year renewal cycle.
When will the 10-year licence start?
No date has been announced. It starts only after the final rules are published in the Government Gazette.
More for drivers: licence disc renewal, check traffic fines online and roadworthy certificate.