Can I use my temporary driver's licence to drive outside South Africa?

It is only valid inside South Africa. For SADC countries, always carry the paper temporary licence plus your ID, but check the destination country's rules before travelling.

How much does a temporary driver's licence cost?

The national fee guide is around R114, but each province and municipality sets its own fee — always confirm at the DLTC cashier.

Do I need to book online?

No, walk-ins are usually accepted for temporary licences. Booking on NATIS just helps you skip long queues.

Transport & Vehicles

Temporary Driver's Licence in South Africa

In plain English

A temporary driver's licence lets you drive legally for up to 6 months while your new card is being printed or if your card is lost, stolen or damaged. You apply in person at any Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC).

View requirements Visit official website

Who needs this permit

Any South African driver who has applied for a driver's licence renewal or replacement and is waiting for the new card, or whose card is lost, stolen or damaged.

When is it required

Whenever you don't have a valid driver's licence card in your possession — waiting on a renewal, lost/stolen card, or damaged card.

Eligibility

You already hold (or held) a valid South African driver's licence
You have a South African ID (Smart ID Card or green ID book)
You are applying at a DLTC that serves your area of residence

Documents you need before applying

South African ID (Smart ID Card or green ID book) — original plus a copy
Two recent colour ID photos (if the DLTC does not have a live enrolment camera)
Proof of residence not older than 3 months (utility bill, bank statement, affidavit)
Existing driver's licence card OR a SAPS affidavit if lost or stolen
Application form DL1 (available at the DLTC or on the RTMC website)

Download a printable checklist

A one-page PDF of everything you need to bring with you. Tick items off before you go.

How to apply — step by step

1
Book or walk in at your nearest DLTC
Most DLTCs accept walk-ins for temporary licences, but you can also book online via natis.gov.za to avoid queues.
2
Complete the DL1 application form
Fill in your personal details and tick 'Temporary Driving Licence'. Staff will help if you're unsure.
3
Submit your documents and photos
Hand in your ID, proof of residence, photos and (if applicable) the SAPS affidavit for your lost card.
4
Pay the fee at the cashier
Get a receipt — you'll need it if you have to follow up. Fees vary by province and municipality.
5
Collect your temporary licence the same day
Most DLTCs print the temporary paper licence while you wait. Keep it with your ID at all times when driving.

Where, how much, how long

Where to apply

Any Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) in South Africa. Bookings can be made through the NATIS online portal in provinces that support it.

Fees

Approximately R114 (varies by province and municipality — confirm the current fee at your DLTC).

Processing time

Same day — usually issued while you wait.

Validity

Up to 6 months from date of issue, or until your new driver's licence card is ready — whichever comes first.

Renewal

If your new card still isn't ready when your temporary licence expires, you can apply for a further temporary licence at the same DLTC. Bring your original receipt.

Common mistakes to avoid

Not carrying the temporary licence together with your ID — you'll be treated as unlicensed
Applying without a SAPS affidavit for a lost card
Bringing black-and-white or old photos — most DLTCs require recent colour photos
Assuming a receipt from a renewal is enough — it is not a licence to drive