How to check if your driver’s licence is ready for collection

Renewing your driver’s licence can be a lengthy process, and even once you’ve taken the time to fill out an application it may take weeks before your new card is ready for collection.

If you recently applied for a licence renewal, it may be unclear when you can actually collect your licence as the waiting times can vary between locations, and not all Driver’s Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs) notify individuals once their cards are there.

If you find yourself in this situation, there are two main ways of finding out whether your new driver’s card is ready.

SMS

The first way you can check if your licence is ready is to send an SMS with your ID number to 33214.

Shortly afterwards, you should receive a response with one of four possible messages:

1. Application received – This means that your application has been filed by the DLTC but that it has not yet been processed.
2. Production queue – This means your application is approved and the order for your new card is currently waiting to be manufactured
3. Problem card – This means there is a problem with the production of your card and you will need to go back to the DLTC where you filed your application
4. Produced and ready for collection – Your card is ready for collection.

Note that you have a limited time to collect your new card, which should be stated in the SMS, and that the DLTC will deface your card if you fail to collect it within the allotted time.

If this happens, you will have to begin the licence renewal process and pay the associated fees all over again.

Most licences should be ready within eight to 10 weeks after submitting an application.

Natis website

The other way you can check on the status of your new licence is to create a profile and log onto the Natis website at online.natis.gov.za

You can create an account using your cellphone number or email address, and you will also need an ID number and set a password when making a profile.

Once you’ve logged in, you should be able to go to the site’s dashboard and check the status of your application