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New rules for South Africans with expired driving licences

The Department of Transport has gazetted new rules allowing expired driving licences to be used as valid forms of identification in South Africa, provided certain conditions are met. This has come as the country continues to deal with a massive backlog in printing new cards caused by repeated breakdowns of its only licence card printer. According to the notice published on Friday, 26 September 2025, motorists whose licences have expired will have a three-month grace period during which their expired card remains valid, as long as they can prove they applied for a new one before it expired.  This is not a new concession but part of standard procedure, as highlighted previously by the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA), which informed drivers that their licence remains valid for three months if renewal is done on time. To make use of this grace period, drivers must carry both their expired licence card and the official receipt showing that they have applied for renewal...

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Traffic offences


Traffic fines play a crucial role in maintaining road safety and ensuring compliance with traffic regulations in South Africa by all motorists. Understanding how traffic fines work and knowing the process for paying them is essential for all motorists. Let’s take a closer look and answer some common questions.

 

Traffic Fines in South Africa

Traffic fines are penalties imposed on motorists for violating traffic laws. They are issued by traffic authorities such as traffic officers and municipalities. These fines aim to deter traffic violations and promote responsible driving behaviour.

Various traffic offences, including speeding, reckless driving, failure to obey traffic signals, improper parking, and driving without a valid license or vehicle registration, can result in fines. The severity of the offence and the associated fines may vary, depending on the violation.

Traffic fines are typically issued in two ways: through direct citation by a traffic officer or via a camera system that captures violations, such as speeding or running a red light. Once issued, traffic fines are usually delivered by post to the registered address of the vehicle owner.

Options for Paying Traffic Fines

  • Online Payment:

Many municipalities and traffic authorities provide online platforms where motorists can pay fines electronically. These platforms usually require the fine notice number, vehicle registration details, and a valid payment method.

  • Payment at Local Municipal Offices:

Motorists can visit their local municipal offices or traffic department to make payments in person. It is advisable to bring along the original fine notice, identification, and cash or card for payment.

  • Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT):

Some municipalities accept payment via EFT. Motorists can use their banking apps or visit their bank branches to initiate the payment using the provided account details.

  • Postal Payment:

In certain cases, motorists can send a postal order or cheque, along with the original fine notice, to the relevant traffic authority's address for payment.

 

Failure to pay traffic fines within 32 days may result in additional penalties, such as increased fines, a summons to appear in court, or even a warrant for your arrest. Remember to stay informed about traffic laws, drive responsibly, and promptly address any traffic fines. Avoid the added stress of traffic fines altogether by complying with the rules of the road and contribute to safer roads for everyone.

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