The National Traffic Information System (NaTIS) is the government’s official platform for managing vehicle and driver information in South Africa. It provides citizens with various online services, including the renewal of driving licences, vehicle registration, and more. The system aims to streamline administrative processes and improve service delivery.
Renewal of Your Driving Licence Card
Key Points to Remember
- Validity of Driving Licence: Your driving licence card serves as proof of your driving licence status. An expired card does not mean your driving licence is invalid, but it does need to be renewed for proof.
- No Driving Test Required: You will not have to undergo a driving licence test when renewing your card.
Eligibility for Online Renewal
You can renew your driving licence online if:
- Your current driving licence card is within two months of expiry.
- Your card has already expired or been lost.
Steps to Renew Your Driving Licence Online
1. Visit the NaTIS Website
Go to the official NaTIS website to begin the renewal process. Look for the section dedicated to driving licence renewal.
2. Complete the Online Application
Fill out the required forms online. You’ll need:
- Form DL1: This is the application form for renewing your driving licence.
- Identification: A certified copy of your ID document will be necessary for filing purposes.
3. Prepare Required Documents
Ensure you have the following documents ready for submission:
- Four recent photographs (ID format).
- The card issuing fee payment receipt (details for payment can be found on the NaTIS site).
4. Submit Your Application
Follow the prompts on the NaTIS site to submit your application. You may need to visit your nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) if the system prompts you to do so for additional verification.
5. Await Your New Licence Card
Once your application is approved, the new driving licence card will be available for collection at your local DLTC. This process usually takes about six weeks. If you applied within two months of expiry, your driving licence’s expiry date is extended for an additional three months.
What If You’re Outside South Africa?
If you’re currently outside the borders of South Africa, the renewal process requires you to apply in person. New fingerprints, photographs, a signature, and an eye test are necessary. However, if you cannot collect the card in person, you can nominate someone to collect it on your behalf.
Temporary Driving Licence
If your driving licence card has expired, or if you’re waiting for your renewal to be processed, you can apply for a temporary driving licence. This can be done simultaneously with your renewal application.
Confirmation Letters for Lost or Stolen Licences
For applicants whose driving licences have been lost or stolen and who are unable to return to South Africa, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) can issue a confirmation letter. This letter, which confirms your valid driving licence, can assist you in converting your South African licence to a foreign one, but it should not be mistaken for a driving licence when presented to law enforcement.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.