Good News: SA Driving Licence Card Printing Machine Fixed, Drakenstein Applicants Can Expect Progress

Drakenstein – 13 May 2025
The National Department of Transport has confirmed that South Africa’s only driving licence card printing machine has been repaired and is back in operation. This development brings much-needed relief to the approximately 7 000 Drakenstein residents who have been waiting for their driving licence cards and Public Driving Permits since the start of the year.

No cards or permits have been issued during this period due to the breakdown of the machine, which is located at the Department’s Driving Licence Card Account (DLCA) office in Pretoria. The DLCA, an entity of the Department of Transport, is responsible for processing all driving licence card applications nationally.

To address the growing backlog, the Department has extended the working hours of DLCA staff and pledged to issue regular progress updates.

Meanwhile, the Drakenstein Municipality has reminded applicants that, under the National Road Traffic Act, an expired driving licence card remains valid for three months if a renewal application was submitted before the expiry date. Applicants must carry both the expired card and proof of payment.

If delays extend beyond the three-month grace period, residents can apply for a temporary driving licence, which costs R45 and is valid for six months or until the new card is issued.

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