New Driver’s Licence Rules – South Africa has introduced new driver’s licence rules for 2025, aiming to improve road safety, eliminate fraud, and make the process more streamlined. These changes affect new applicants, current learners, and those renewing their existing licences. The Department of Transport has revised the requirements, application steps, validity periods, and testing standards. Here’s everything you need to know.
New Driver’s Licence Rules in South Africa – 2025 Update
All South African citizens applying for a driver’s licence must follow the updated requirements starting from 2025. Whether you’re a new driver or renewing your card, these new rules apply.
- Minimum age for licence classes has been revised
- Fingerprint verification is now mandatory at DLTCs
- Testing procedures have been modernised
- Online applications and payment systems expanded
- Licence validity extended from 5 to 8 years
- Retesting only required for expired licences over 2 years
- New digital card licence pilot rolling out
Updated Learner’s Licence and Testing Rules
The learner’s licence system has also undergone revisions in 2025, with an emphasis on digitalisation and stricter validation.
- Learner’s licence tests will now be computer-based only
- Updated question banks to match modern driving conditions
- Biometric scanning required for exam entry
- Testing centres to introduce AI surveillance for fairness
- Application forms to be submitted online only via the NaTIS system
Comparison of Old vs New Licence Rules (2024 vs 2025)
| Category | 2024 Rules | 2025 Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Licence Validity | 5 Years | 8 Years |
| Test Format | Paper & Pen | Fully Digital/Computerised |
| Age Limit (Code B) | 18 Years | 17 Years (Provisional Licence) |
| Application Mode | Physical & Online | Online Only (www.natis.gov.za) |
| Test Centre Security | CCTV Monitoring | AI + Biometric Monitoring |
| Retest Policy | After expiry of 1 year | After expiry of 2 years |
| Physical Card Format | Plastic Card | Digital + Plastic Hybrid |
| Booking System | Walk-in Allowed | Booking Mandatory Online |
New Online Licence Application Process
The South African government has made it mandatory to apply for all new driver’s licences, learner’s tests, and renewals through the official NaTIS portal. Walk-in applications will no longer be accepted.
- Visit the official site: www.natis.gov.za
- Select “Book Now” under the Driving Licence Services
- Upload ID copy, address proof, and pay the booking fee online
- Choose your nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC)
- Select your date and time slot
- Bring original documents and booking confirmation to the test
Note: No payment will be accepted at the DLTC counter—all payments must be completed online.
Licence Renewal and Grace Period Rules in 2025
If your driver’s licence is about to expire or has already expired, the following rules now apply:
- Licences expired for less than 2 years: You can renew without a retest
- Licences expired for more than 2 years: Full driving test is required
- No additional grace period extensions will be given in 2025
- Medical certificate is mandatory for applicants aged 65+
New Licence Renewal Conditions by Age Group
| Age Group | Validity Period | Retesting Required? | Medical Certificate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 60 | 8 Years | No | No |
| 60–64 | 5 Years | No | No |
| 65–74 | 5 Years | Only if expired >2yr | Yes |
| 75 and above | 3 Years | Every renewal | Yes |
Digital Driver’s Licence Card Pilot Project
The Department of Transport is set to roll out digital driving licences nationwide by the end of 2025. These cards will have QR codes and embedded microchips, ensuring:
- Instant verification by law enforcement
- Faster renewal and replacement process
- Tamper-proof data encryption
Initially, the digital licences will be available in Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, with a full rollout by mid-2026.
Cost of Getting and Renewing a Driver’s Licence in 2025
The new rules have also introduced a revised fee structure applicable nationwide.
Updated Fees for Driver’s Licence Services (2025)
| Service Type | Cost in 2024 | Cost in 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Learner’s Licence Test | R108 | R125 |
| Driver’s Licence Test | R228 | R260 |
| Licence Card Issuance | R140 | R185 |
| Temporary Licence (optional) | R72 | R95 |
| Renewal (within validity) | R250 | R285 |
| Retest (after expiry) | R228 | R260 |
All payments must be made in advance through the official NaTIS platform (www.natis.gov.za).
Contact Information for Assistance
If you need more help, contact the Department of Transport or visit your local DLTC:
Department of Transport (National)
- Phone: 012 309 3000
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.transport.gov.za
NaTIS Support (Technical Issues)
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.natis.gov.za
DLTC General Helpline (Gauteng):
- Phone: 011 355 0000
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 3:30 PM (Mon–Fri)
FAQs of New Driver’s Licence Rules
Q1: Can I still apply for a licence in person?
A: No, all applications must be submitted online via www.natis.gov.za.
Q2: Is the 8-year validity applicable for all licences?
A: Yes, except for applicants above 65, who may have shorter validity depending on age.
Q3: What if I don’t have internet access to apply?
A: You can visit a public library or internet café. Some DLTCs also have assisted digital kiosks.
Q4: Are learner’s licences also going digital?
A: Yes, all learner’s test bookings and results will be processed digitally in 2025.
Q5: What happens if I fail to renew my licence on time?
A: If it’s been more than 2 years since expiry, you’ll have to redo the full driving test.
Q6: Are these rules the same across all provinces?
A: Yes, these are national rules applicable in all South African provinces.
Conclusion of New Driver’s Licence Rules
The updated 2025 driving licence rules in South Africa aim to improve efficiency, security, and accessibility. With digital testing, online booking, and extended validity periods, the changes are significant. All drivers, new and existing, should familiarise themselves with the latest guidelines and complete their applications via the NaTIS portal on time. Avoid delays and ensure your documents are up to date under the new framework.