Expired car license? What to do and what not to do in South Africa

All motor vehicles operating on South African roads must have a valid license disc attached to the windscreen. If you get caught without one, you may be in for a heap of trouble! Here's what you need to do if your disc is expiring soon.

It is a known fact that every vehicle operating on South African roads must have a valid license disc attached to the windscreen or other location where law enforcement can easily read it. It doesn't matter if it's a small quadricycle, truck, taxi, motorcycle, or even a tractor; failure to display a valid license can lead to all sorts of trouble, from arguments with traffic officials to harsh fines, impoundment, and possible jail time.

Your vehicle's license disc is valid for 12 months from the date it is issued and must be renewed annually. In the past, the traffic authority would send you a renewal notice in the post, but due to spiralling costs and incorrect information on the system, many would never receive these forms. It is now up to the vehicle owner to keep an eye on the dates on their discs and renew them in time or face the long arm of the law.

An expired car license in South Africa can lead to serious consequences, so don't let yours expire! Here's a guide on what to do and what to avoid.

The Grace Period and Penalties

21-day grace period

You have a 21-day grace period to renew your car license after its expiry date. During this time, you can renew it without incurring any penalties.

Late renewal penalties

If you fail to renew within the grace period, you will be liable for late licensing penalties and arrears. The penalty is 10% of the annual licensing fee for every month the license lapses.

Impoundment

If caught driving with an expired license disc, your vehicle could be impounded. This comes with a whole new set of costs and paperwork that is best avoided at all costs.

Long-term lapse

It will lapse if you don't renew your license for four years or more. The vehicle will be archived from the eNatis national registry, and you must re-register it from scratch. This will include a roadworthy test, and any unpaid fees will be due before the car can be relicensed.

What to Do

Renew as soon as possible

Don't delay. The longer you wait, the higher the penalties will be.

Gather your documents

• Your ID book or a certified copy.

• The motor vehicle license renewal notice (MVL2) if you received it. If you don't have it, you can complete a form called ALV1 (Application for Licensing of Motor Vehicle) at the licensing department.

• Proof of residence (e.g., a utility bill). If the bill is not in your name, you'll need an affidavit from the bill holder confirming your residence, along with a copy of their ID.

• The required licensing fees, including any applicable penalties.

Choose your renewal method.

• In-person: Visit your nearest licensing department or a selected Post Office.

• Online: Many provinces, private services, and some banks offer online renewal options. These services often include delivery of the new license disc to your door. The government's eNatis website is the official portal; some private companies also provide this service.

• Through a third-party: You can send someone to renew your license. They will need a letter of your permission, a certified copy of your ID, and their own ID.

What Not to Do

Don't wait for a renewal notice.

While the authorities may send a renewal notice, your legal responsibility as the vehicle owner is to ensure your license is renewed on time. Not receiving a notice is not a valid excuse for late renewal.

Don't ignore the expiry date.

Driving with an expired license is a serious offence that can result in fines and legal trouble.

Don't assume your vehicle is exempt if it's not being used

As long as you own the vehicle, you are liable for the license fees, regardless of whether it is operated on a public road.

Don't rely on old information.

Always confirm the required documentation and fees with the relevant authorities, as they can change.

You must have a valid license disc if you operate a vehicle on SA roads. There are no excuses, and law enforcement will throw the book at you if your driver's license is expired. It's best to stay on top of your renewal dates and set money aside for the fees and a day for paperwork. Don't get caught unawares at the next roadblock!

SOURCE: AUTOTRADER