Need to find out if your South African driver’s licence is ready for collection? You can easily check the progress of your licence renewal online through the official NaTIS portal. This guide explains how to check your driver’s licence status, what each response means, and answers common questions about the process.
How to Check Your Driver’s Licence Status Online in South Africa
To track the status of your driver’s licence card, follow these steps:
- Go to the NaTIS website:
Visit https://online.natis.gov.za/#/ - Click on “Query Driving Licence Card”:
This option is available right on the home page. - Fill in your details:
- Choose your Identification Type
- Enter your ID Number
- Provide your Surname
- Add your Initials
- Click on Next to proceed
- Alternative method via SMS:
Send your ID number via SMS to 33214. You will receive a response confirming the status of your licence.
Understanding Licence Renewal Status Messages
Here’s what each message on the NaTIS system means:
- “Request doesn’t exist or not received / Unknown ID”
Your application has not been submitted, or your ID is not recognised in the system. - “Request received by CPF”
The system has received your application for licence renewal. - “Request in processing Zone”
Your application is being processed — please be patient as the system updates. - “Request approved and posted”
Your driver’s licence has been approved and posted. It should be ready for collection soon.
Eye Test Options When Renewing Your Licence
You have two options for completing the mandatory eye test:
- At the Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC):
You can do the test on the same day as your renewal application and payment. - At a private optometrist or eye clinic:
Get your eyes tested at a recognised practitioner who can issue a certificate. This certificate is accepted at any DLTC.
Booking Issues at Your Preferred Testing Station
➤ Can’t get a date or time that suits you?
If your preferred slot is unavailable, it may already be booked. The system updates in real-time, so try:
- Checking back later for available slots
- Choosing a different DLTC nearby
- Selecting a more flexible date or time
➤ What if the date offered doesn’t work for me?
Testing centres operate on specific schedules for different licence types. If the offered time doesn’t work:
- Look for availability at another station
- Be flexible with your dates, especially during peak periods
Are There Penalties for an Expired Driver’s Licence?
At present, no penalties are charged for renewing a licence after its expiry. However:
- You are advised to renew your card before it expires
- If your licence has expired and you need to drive, apply for a temporary driving licence while waiting for the new card
Final Notes
The NaTIS portal is the fastest way to check your South African driver’s licence renewal status. It’s mobile-friendly, accessible, and updated in real time. For most users, it takes just a few minutes to confirm if your licence is ready.
Whether you’re dealing with booking issues, eye test requirements, or delays in processing — staying informed through the official channels helps you avoid unnecessary stress.
Bookmark https://online.natis.gov.za/#/ and check your driver’s licence card status regularly.