The end of the grace period for renewing learner’s licences, driving licence cards, temporary driving licences, and professional driving permits (PrdPs) that expired between March and December last year is looming.

Taxi bosses, the trucking industry and motorist associations have said the situation could result in a potential crisis, and are calling on the government to act now to avert disaster.

The Mercury reports the grace period for the renewal of learner’s and driver’s licences, as well as PrdPs, that expired between 26 March and 31 December last year ends on 31 August.

The groups have argued that dozens of people may find themselves on the wrong side of the law, as motorists have been faced with frustrations when they have attempted to renew their licences – including very long queues at centres and centres being closed due to Covid-19 cases.

In addition, due to the current Covid-19 lockdown restrictions, the number of people gathering in one venue is limited to 50, and licensing centres are only able to accommodate 50 people each day, and this has seen people lining up as early as 3am in order to get in.

The SA National Taxi Council (Santaco) said the government should consider another extension for motorists who need to renew their drivers’ and vehicle licences, especially those in the public transport sector.

He added that aside from an appeal for an extension, they would appeal for a special concession to accommodate taxi drivers.

National Motorists Association of SA’s Bobby Gage said they had tried to meet with the government on the problems about the issuing and renewing of licences, adding that he was hopeful that a solution would be found.

Road Traffic Management Corporation spokesperson Simon Zwane said consideration of an extension could be made by either the national or provincial Department of Transport.

Full report in The Mercury