Motorists urged to renew 2.2 million vehicle licence discs before festive season

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged motorists to renew their vehicle licence discs ahead of the festive season, with more than 2.2 million discs due to expire in November and December.

“With traffic volumes expected to increase significantly during the festive season, motorists are urged to renew their vehicle licence discs and driving licences before their expiry dates to avoid unnecessary delays and ensure compliance with road traffic legislation,” RTMC said in a statement.

A total of 2 248 795 vehicle licence discs are due to expire over the two months. Motorists are also urged to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and that all driving and vehicle documentation is valid and up to date.

According to the RTMC, Gauteng accounts for the largest number of vehicle licence discs due for renewal, with 851 687 expected to expire in November and December.

The Western Cape follows with 374 761 discs, while KwaZulu-Natal accounts for 327 014.

Motorists can renew their vehicle licence discs online at Online.natis.gov.za and arrange for delivery to their homes or workplaces.

The RTMC said its online platform has become a preferred renewal system for many motorists, recording eight million transactions since its launch in 2022.

“Motorists are also encouraged to take advantage of the extended operating hours at RTMC Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) centres, which operate seven days a week, from Sunday to Monday, between 07:00 and 21:00.

“These extended hours provide motorists with additional opportunities to renew their driving licences ahead of the busy festive season,” RTMC added.

In addition to renewing their licences, motorists are urged to have their vehicles inspected and serviced before embarking on long-distance journeys.

Particular attention should be paid to tyres, brakes, lights, windscreen wipers and other essential safety components.

Heavy vehicle drivers are also encouraged to undergo appropriate health checks to ensure they are medically fit to drive before undertaking long-distance journeys.

“Drivers must ensure that they are adequately rested, avoid driving while fatigued, and take regular breaks during long journeys. Transport operators have a responsibility to ensure that drivers are fit for duty and that vehicles are in a safe operating condition before being dispatched.

“We emphasise that road safety begins before a journey starts. Proper planning, responsible driving behaviour, and regular vehicle maintenance are essential to reducing road crashes, injuries, and fatalities during the upcoming festive season period,” RTMC said.

Motorists are reminded to obey speed limits, maintain safe following distances, never drive under the influence of alcohol and ensure that all vehicle occupants wear seat belts.

“The road safety agency is making a special plea to all motorists to make road safety a priority this festive season. Renewing vehicle licence discs, checking vehicle roadworthiness, and ensuring that drivers are fit to travel are essential steps towards safer roads for all and reducing the carnage on our roads.” -SAnews.gov.za

Source: Original report at SAnews.gov.za.