How to Convert a Foreign Driving Licence to a South African Licence

If you’ve moved to South Africa and hold permanent residency or a diplomatic permit, you might need to convert your foreign driving licence into a South African licence. This guide will help you understand the step-by-step process, requirements, and other important details to ensure a smooth transition.

Who Needs to Convert Their Licence?

You are required to convert your foreign driving licence if:

• You’ve been granted permanent residence in South Africa.
• You hold a diplomatic permit but do not have permanent residency.

Important: Time Frame

If you have permanent residency, you must convert your licence within one year of receiving your residency permit. Failing to do so will render your foreign licence invalid for use in South Africa.

Exceptions for Tourists and Visitors

If you are in South Africa temporarily on a tourist or visitor visa, you are allowed to use your foreign licence for up to one year, provided it is in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) translated into one of South Africa's 11 official languages.

Requirements to Convert Your Foreign Driving Licence

To successfully convert your foreign licence, you must meet these requirements:

1. Valid Foreign Licence: Your licence must still be valid at the time of conversion.
2. Translation: If your licence is not in one of South Africa’s official languages, it must be translated by a competent authority.
3. Letter of Validity: A confirmation letter from the issuing country’s embassy proving that your licence is genuine, including the types of vehicles you’re allowed to drive.
4. Photo and Signature: The licence must have your photograph and signature.

Steps to Convert Your Licence

Follow these steps to convert your foreign driving licence into a South African one:

1. Visit the Nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC)

Head to a DLTC in the province where you received your permanent residency. You can find DLTC locations in major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.

2. Complete the Application Forms

You’ll need to fill out the following forms:

• DL1 Application Form: This form is for exchanging a driving licence.
• NCP Form: This form notifies authorities about your change of address or other personal details.

Both forms are available at any DLTC or through the eNatis website.

3. Submit the Required Documents

You’ll need to present the following documents:

• Identification: This can be your South African ID, valid passport with a permanent residence permit, or a temporary ID.
• Photos: Four black-and-white ID-sized photographs.
• Proof of Permanent Residence: You must show documentation proving your permanent residency in South Africa.
• Current Foreign Driving Licence: This must be valid.
• Proof of Address: You’ll need a utility bill in your name. If it’s not in your name, you must bring an affidavit from the bill holder confirming your residence. If you live in an informal settlement, a stamped letter from a ward councillor is required.
• Letter of Validity: A confirmation letter from the driving licence authority of the country that issued your foreign licence. This letter should verify that your licence has not been cancelled or suspended and include the vehicle categories you’re permitted to drive.
• Translation: If your licence is not in an official South African language, include a translated version.

4. Eye Test

You will need to take an eye test at the DLTC. This is mandatory, but you will not have to take any other driving test if all your documents are in order.

5. Hand Over Your Foreign Licence

Once your application is approved, you’ll need to hand over your foreign licence. The DLTC will then issue you a South African driving licence.

What to Expect After Applying

Time Frame

The time it takes to receive your new licence varies depending on the DLTC. Processing times may differ because of internal auditing processes at the centre.

Cost

The conversion cost also varies by location. On average, expect to pay R140 for the conversion. An additional R45 may be charged if you need a temporary licence while waiting for your permanent one.

Expiry

Remember, you must convert your foreign licence within one year of obtaining permanent residence. After this time, your foreign licence will become invalid in South Africa.

FAQs About Converting a Foreign Licence

1. Can I still drive with my foreign licence if I haven’t converted it after a year?

No, after one year of receiving your permanent residence permit, your foreign licence becomes invalid in South Africa. You will need to convert it to a South African licence.

2. Do I need to take a driving test?

No driving test is required, but you will need to take an eye test.

3. Can I convert my licence if I only have a visitor visa?

No, visitor visa holders can use their foreign licences for up to one year, provided the licence is translated into one of the 11 official languages of South Africa or accompanied by an International Driving Permit.

4. What happens if my foreign licence is not in English?

You will need to provide a translated version from a competent authority, along with your application.

5. Can I apply for a licence conversion at any DLTC?

Yes, you can apply at any DLTC, but it’s recommended to apply in the province where you obtained your permanent residence permit for smoother processing.

Conclusion

Converting your foreign driving licence to a South African one is a straightforward process if you meet all the requirements and follow the necessary steps. Remember to apply within the first year of your permanent residency and ensure that all your documents are valid and properly translated.