SOUTH AFRICAN DRIVERS CURRENTLY OVERSEAS

Due to the fact that all applications for the conversion of ID book type driving licences to the new CCF format, and the issue of all new CCF licences are preceded by eye testing and the taking of finger prints all applications must be done at a registered driving licence testing center in South Africa.

It is not currently possible to apply for the CCF format driving licence from abroad. The Department of Transport is however preparing regulations to exempt South African drivers from the increased manufacturing fee (penalty) for late conversion. If a South African driving licence holder can supply proof (passport) that he or she was abroad during the conversion period, the increased manufacturing fee (penalty) will not be levied.

Should a South African driver misplace his / her ID book whilst overseas, the Department of Home Affairs will issue a new ID book but the new book will not contain a driving licence. It must however be very clear although the driving licence does not appear in the new ID book the driver is still a holder of a valid driving licence. All driving licence data are contained on the National Traffic Information System (NaTIS), and upon return to South Africa the driver can go to any driving licence testing center and apply to be issued with a CCF driving licence.

Verification of driving licence details is however possible. The Department of Transport will issue a printout of the Licence in question and supply a letter of   Confirmation.

All such requests should be forwarded to:

Helpdesk
Department of Transport
Tel: +27 12 3093759
Fax: +27 12 3093134
pretori@dot.gov.za

All requests should include the ID number of licence holders to enable the Department to find the record on the Database.

Further confirmation can be obtained by the relevant authority, i.e., contacting the Department of Transport directly of which E-Mail is the preferred option.

The possibility is currently investigated by the Department of Transport to prepare regulations to facilitate applications for the new CCF format Driving licence from abroad.