South Africa License Rules 2025 : South African drivers face big changes in 2025 as newer laws are officially ushered in. The Department of Transport has ensured that the evolution of raod law is aimed at keeping it modernised and conducive to greater safety and less fraud, whilst complaints from many motorists could be that the new laws will cause them longer queues, more stringent requirements, and steeper charges for renewal.
Licence Renewal Periods Shortene
One of the most significant changes would happen to be the shortening of the licence renewal period. Instead of being valid for five years, certain driving licence must now be renewed for three years. Officials relate that this is going to make sure these checks on drivers’ vision, their health, fitness are done regularly and attain a safer skyway. But for the drivers, it means more collection of arduous visits to the testing centres for extra monies.
Biometric Verification Introduced
From 2025, every application of fresh licences or renewal will have biometric verification therewith. Fingerprints and facial recognition shall be kept mandatory to reduce identity fraud and dupes in licences. While the government claims this will ease the system, certain drivers fear that centres will be delayed in introducing this technology.
Digital Licence Cards And What Not
Another major change will be the introduction of digital driver licence cards that can be held in a mobile phone app. People who wish to keep their physical cards shall do so during the transitional period; once the transition is over, such persons will then be encouraged to use the digital version as their authentication. This should eventually, speed up traffic stops and renewals; however, this may or may not be detrimental to those without the availability of smartphones.
Stricter Penalties For Late Renewals
Starting 2025, fining and penalizing will become harsher against any motorist who does not renew their licences on time. Before, the grace periods allowed too much leeway to the drivers, but under these new rules, fines can be issued for the driving of an expired licence, and the driver may even be suspended until he or she completes the renewal process.
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