The Department of Transport has instructed airlines in South Africa to recognise expired driver’s licences as valid identification, under specific conditions.
In a notice published in the Government Gazette on Friday, 26 September 2025, the department confirmed that expired licence cards remain valid for three months, provided motorists can prove they applied for renewal before the card expired. Proof must include both the expired licence card and the official receipt for the renewal.
This three-month grace period has been a long-standing part of the system. The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) previously highlighted the rule in a pamphlet outlining motorists’ rights.
Driver’s licence card backlog sees some relief
“If the card had already expired at the time of application for a replacement, the holder must also apply for a temporary driver’s licence and keep proof thereof,” the department stated.
Temporary licences remain valid for six months or until a new card is issued.
The department clarified that airlines are expected to accept expired driver’s licence cards as identification, provided travellers meet the outlined conditions.
The department’s announcement comes against the backdrop of a nationwide backlog in driver’s licence card renewals.
South Africa’s sole licence card printer broke down in February 2025, leaving more than 700 000 motorists waiting. The machine was brought back online in May, and the backlog has since been reduced to about 330 000 cards.
According to reports, the Driving Licence Card Authority has been running 24-hour shifts since repairs were completed. Officials also believe the backlog can be cleared by December this year.
