Major update for South Africans using expired driver’s licences to fly
Planning to fly soon? A new rule from South Africa’s Department of Transport may simplify travel for certain passengers.
The Department of Transport has ordered South African airlines to accept expired driver’s licences as valid identification under certain conditions.
In a notice published in the Government Gazette on Friday, 26 September 2025, the department confirmed that motorists may use expired licence cards for up to three months if they can prove they applied for renewal before the card expired. Motorists must present both the expired card and the official renewal receipt as proof.
This three-month grace period has long been part of the system, and the Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) previously highlighted the rule in a pamphlet explaining 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 stay valid for six months or until authorities issue a new card.
The department confirmed that airlines must accept expired driver’s licence cards as identification when travellers meet the outlined conditions.
The department announced the directive amid 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.