How to avoid standing in long queues to renew your vehicle licence

The grace period for all learner’s licences, driving licence cards, temporary driving licences and professional driving permits that expired between March 26, 2020 up to and including December 31, 2020 has been extended yet again until August 31, 2021.

While motorists can breathe a sigh of relief at this, ultimately you will have to stand in a long line to receive a new licence. Or do you?

Did you know that a third party can collect your vehicle licence for you? This service is available throughout the country, and is recommended for those with co-morbidities so that they can stay home and stay safe amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Those in Gauteng, the Free State and select parts of the Western Cape can use Whatsapp-based service ChatBack. All you need to do is WhatsApp them your vehicle registration number, get a quote and make payment via PayFast or SnapScan. Step three is to specify your address and attach a copy or photo of your ID document and proof of residence, then sit back and wait for confirmation that your licence has been renewed.

A R250 service fee is charged for the renewal of each vehicle. This fee includes paperless email delivery of your disc and GetBack Checkers and Dischem vouchers. You may opt for home delivery in Gauteng for R70 or nationwide delivery to a Pargo Pickup point of your choice for R75. Just follow the prompts in the ChatBack application on WhatsApp.

Capetonians can also renew and pay for licences via the City of Cape Town eServices portal. You will need to register as a user on the e-Services portal if you aren’t registered already. For this, you will need proof of residence and a copy of your ID.

Activate the vehicle licensing renewal option and fill in the relevant information to obtain the City’s banking details and your specific deposit reference number. Using these banking details, and your specific deposit reference number, you can make an EFT payment directly from your bank’s website.

If you are not the registered owner and you are paying on behalf of the vehicle owner, you will need:

– the completed Application for Licensing of Motor Vehicle form,

– acceptable identification for yourself and the registered owner, and

– a letter of consent signed by the registered owner.

The amount you pay is determined by the tare or empty vehicle mass, which differs depending on the vehicle. Visit the Western Cape Government’s website for the latest licence fees.

Applications for vehicle licence renewals should be made a month prior to the expiry date. You should receive your licence within fourteen working days after the payment has been received.

Picture: Renew Online