How to Convert a Foreign Driving Licence in South Africa
A step-by-step guide for permanent residents and diplomatic permit holders to convert their foreign driving licence to a South African one.
Table of Contents
About Converting a Foreign Driving Licence
If you have been granted permanent residency in South Africa, you are required to convert your foreign driving licence to a South African one within one year. Failing to do so will render your foreign licence invalid for driving in the country, which could lead to legal issues and fines. This guide provides a clear, step-by-step process for a smooth conversion.
Eligibility and Key Requirements
The conversion process is open to permanent residents and holders of diplomatic permits. For your foreign licence to be accepted for conversion, it must meet the following criteria:
- Validity: The licence must be current and valid. It should not be expired, cancelled, or suspended.
- Language: If the licence is not in English, it must be officially translated by a competent authority, such as an embassy or a certified translation service.
- Authentication: You must provide a letter of validity from the relevant embassy, consulate, or issuing authority of your home country, confirming that your licence is genuine and valid.
- Identification: The licence must clearly display your photograph and signature.
Documents You Must Prepare
The application process requires a comprehensive set of documents. It’s crucial to have everything ready before your visit to the Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) to avoid delays.
Identification & Residency Proof
- Your original and a certified copy of your South African ID, temporary ID, or passport.
- Your foreign passport with your permanent residence permit.
- Proof that you were not a South African permanent resident when you obtained your foreign licence (e.g., your passport with relevant visas from that time).
Driving Licence Documents
- Your current, original foreign driving licence.
- The letter of translation from a competent authority if the licence is not in English.
- The confirmation letter from your home country’s driving licence authority, specifying the vehicle categories you are permitted to drive.
Other Essentials
- Four black-and-white, ID-sized photographs.
- Proof of Residential Address: A utility bill not older than three months. If the bill is not in your name, you must provide a sworn affidavit from the owner stating you live there, along with a copy of their ID and the utility bill. For residents of informal settlements, a dated and officially stamped letter from a ward councillor is required.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Identification | Original and certified copy of South African ID, temporary ID, or passport |
| Residency Proof | Foreign passport with permanent residence permit; proof of non-residency at time of foreign licence issuance (e.g., passport with visas) |
| Driving Licence | Original foreign driving licence; letter of translation if not in English; confirmation letter from home country’s authority specifying vehicle categories |
| Photographs | Four black-and-white, ID-sized photos |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill (≤3 months old), or affidavit with owner’s ID and bill, or ward councillor letter for informal settlements |
The Step-by-Step Conversion Process
Visit the Correct DLTC: You must go to the DLTC located in the province where you were granted your permanent residence permit.
Complete the Forms: At the centre, you will be given and must complete two essential forms:
- The Application for Exchange of a Driving Licence (DL1) form.
- The Notification of Change of Address or Particulars (NCP) form.
Eye Test: You will undergo a mandatory eye test at the DLTC. A driving test is not required for the conversion. You can also provide an eye test report from a qualified optometrist to save time.
Submit and Pay: Once your documents are verified and forms are submitted, you will pay the prescribed fee.
Receive Your Licence: The DLTC will issue your new South African driving licence card once they are satisfied with your application. You will be required to surrender your foreign licence at this time.
Timelines, Cost, and Key Reminders:
- Timeframe: The processing time for the new licence can vary, and it is best to confirm with the DLTC at the time of your application. You will be given a temporary driving licence immediately to ensure you can drive legally while you wait.
- Cost: The fee for the conversion is not fixed and varies by municipality. Contact your local licensing office for the current cost.
- Forms: The DL1 form is available at any DLTC and is also accessible on the eNaTIS website for a pre-visit review.
- Important Tip: Start the process well in advance of the one-year deadline to account for any unexpected delays. Ensure all your documents are certified copies where required to avoid having your application rejected.