Transport Department '80% ready' to roll out 8-year driving licences

The Department of Transport says South Africans are a step closer to receiving driving licences valid for eight years instead of the current five. 

Department spokesperson Collen Msibi confirmed that the policy shift is 'almost finalised', with an outstanding cost-benefit analysis expected to determine the financial implications for both motorists and municipalities.

Msibi says that extending licence validity would save drivers time and money, but stressed that the government still needs to consult local government bodies such as the South African Local Government Association (SALGA) before implementation. 

"If you go after eight years to renew your card, it simply means you've saved your time, but also your money. There is also another end of this, which is the revenue of the municipalities, who benefits from this particular project. We've got to look at all those because we've got to engage those stakeholders. It is not something that happens overnight."

He estimates the process to be 'about 80% complete', adding that the national department holds the final decision-making power.

To listen to Msibi in conversation with 702's John Perlman, click below: