Cabinet has approved a proposal to extend the validity period of driving licences for light motor vehicles from five years to 10 years.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni announced the decision during a post-Cabinet briefing on Thursday.

The extended renewal period will apply to codes A, A1, B and EB, covering motorcycles and light motor vehicles.

Heavy commercial vehicles, public transport vehicles and professional driving permits (PrDPs) will not be affected. They will continue to follow the current two- or five-year renewal cycles.

Ntshavheni said the change aligns South Africa with international best practice, improves administrative efficiency, reduces the frequency of renewals for motorists and eases pressure on the country’s licensing system.

She said the change will require amendments to legislation before it can be implemented.

In the meantime, motorists must continue renewing their driving licence cards as required under the current five-year validity period until the new law comes into effect.