Transport minister, Fikile Mbalula, stated that the government is making progress in its battle against corruption in drivers licence testing centres.

Over the last year, the department has worked with municipalities to execute several interventions that are designed to address the root causes of system-wide and operational challenges. Mbalula is trying to make the DLTC system more user-friendly and efficient by introducing various measures including online services and online payments, the roll out of smart enrolment units throughout all DLTCs, and the centralisation of booking slots.

The National Assembly recently passed the National Road Traffic Amendment Bill, which gives us more tools to effectively tackle the intractable challenge of corruption in the vehicle and drivers licensing system. “The regulation of driving schools, through this legislation, will enable closer scrutiny of the conduct of these schools and ensure that uniform standards are applicable to all driving schools.”

Mbalula stated that stricter laws are being introduced to address and resolve cheating by learners and illegal behaviour conducted by instructors. “The prevalence of criminal conduct, ranging from the cloning of vehicles to the fraudulent issuing of driving licences, is a matter of concern that is receiving our most urgent attention,” said Mbalula.

Mbalula mentioned that the Special Investigative Unit has until 31 March 2023 to finalise investigations conducted regarding corruption at DLTCs and collate a complete report. The investigators found that in some cases there was systemic and operational corruption. In some cases, the investigators have found that certain challenges give rise to corruption.

The SIU has since submitted its report, pinpointing several administrative actions that should be implemented by various local authorities. This regulation will help to ensure that testing centres apply uniform standards throughout all testing procedures.

There are other laws that will come from this law, including making traffic rules more enforceable and penalising those who fail to comply.

National Road Traffic Amendment Act signed into law

In December 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the National Road Traffic Amendment Bill into law, marking a significant step forward in the fight against corruption at DLTCs. The amended Act, published in the Government Gazette on 10 December 2024, introduces sweeping reforms including:

  • A formal registration and grading system for all driving licence testing centres and training centres.
  • Registration and regulation of driving schools and their instructors to ensure uniform national standards.
  • New criminal offences for anyone who assists a driving licence applicant in committing fraud.
  • Provisions for the suspension and cancellation of registration of examiners for driving licences or vehicles found to be non-compliant.

The legislation gives effect to the National Road Safety Strategy, which is built on five pillars: road safety management, safer roads and mobility, safer vehicles, safer road users, and post-crash response.

Online booking and NaTIS digital services

The NaTIS online portal (online.natis.gov.za) now allows applicants to book DLTC appointments, pay application fees, and opt for delivery of driving licence cards. Real-time availability is updated by each DLTC. While online booking reduces queues, applicants must still visit a testing centre in person for fingerprints and eye tests.

If you have been involved in a road traffic incident, it is important to know the correct legal steps to follow. Read our guide on how to report a car accident in South Africa.

Understanding your rights under consumer law is equally important when dealing with service providers, including driving schools. Learn more about the Consumer Protection Act in South Africa.

For broader insight into your rights under South African commercial law, see our article on what is commercial law in South Africa.

Updated 14 April 2026 — Added detail on President Ramaphosa signing the National Road Traffic Amendment Act into law in December 2024, including new DLTC registration and grading requirements, fraud offences for examiners, and NaTIS online booking services.