Traffic department teams up with Home Affairs to tackle licence backlog

The Public Servants’ Association (PSA) has welcomed the Department of Transport’s (DoT) move to enlist the help of the Department of Home Affairs (DHA) to address the country’s mounting driver’s licence backlog.

With a reported 602 831 licence cards outstanding, and new applications arriving daily, the DoT has struggled to meet demand with its single, 25-year-old, printing machine.

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The partnership aims to speed up the process and bring much-needed relief to thousands of South Africans awaiting their driver’s licence cards, with many waiting since early in the year.

The PSA said it has long called for collaboration and better use of government resources to improve service delivery.

The organisation praised this joint initiative as a step in the right direction, one that prioritises public needs while restoring confidence in government efficiency.

“This collaborative effort is commendable and shows a commitment to alleviating the pressure faced by citizens, many of whom rely on their licences for daily transport and employment,” said the PSA in a statement.

The association also urged other departments facing similar challenges to take note and follow suit in prioritising the public interest.

However, with the additional workload expected to fall on Home Affairs staff, the PSA emphasised the importance of fair treatment for workers, calling on both departments to manage the situation seamlessly, ensuring employees are not exploited in the process.

The PSA concluded by thanking the DHA for its swift response and co-operation, expressing hope that the partnership would significantly reduce waiting times and improve overall service delivery.

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