JOHANNESBURG - As South African motorists prepare for the extension of the validity of driver’s licences from five years to 10 years, Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has pushed back against concerns that the move could put unsafe drivers on the road.
OUTA CEO Wayne Duvenage says he has no issue with the extension of validity, as he welcomed the announcement as a victory for motorists.
“I can assure you that in all the countries where licenses are renewed in eight years, 10, or even 15 years, their road fatality rates are lower than ours. So that's not an issue.
According to Duvenage, the current renewal process does not include a full medical assessment but only considers an eye test.
“But again, that's not an issue. It hasn't been proven to be an issue. And quite frankly, I don't think you or I would want to drive if we're blind. It's not going to happen. You get glasses as your eyesight deteriorates,” he added.
Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, announced the approved plans to extend the validity period on Thursday after the Cabinet meeting.
She said this extension is valid for light motor vehicles only, which is for driving licences for Codes A, A1, B and EB.
Heavy commercial and public transport vehicles will remain subject to the existing two- or five-year renewal cycles, while Professional Driver's Permits (PDP) will also remain on the two-renewal cycle.
The starting date of this extension has not yet been confirmed, as the implementation process requires legislative amendments.