How Long License Renewals Take (2026)
Understanding driver's license renewal processing times helps you plan your renewal and know when to expect your new license. Processing times can vary based on several factors, and knowing what to expect helps manage your expectations. This comprehensive 2026 guide covers typical processing timelines and factors affecting renewal times.
Typical Processing Timeline
Overall Processing Time
Standard Processing:
- Application at Traffic Department: 1-2 hours
- License Card Production: 4-6 weeks
- Total Time: 4-6 weeks from application to collection
Breakdown:
- Application submission: Same day
- Temporary license: Issued immediately
- Card production: 4-6 weeks
- Collection: When ready
Application Process Time
At Traffic Department
Application Time:
- Queue Time: 30 minutes - 2 hours (depends on appointment/walk-in)
- Document Processing: 15-30 minutes
- Eye Test: 5-10 minutes
- Photo and Biometrics: 10-15 minutes
- Payment: 5 minutes
- Total at Department: 1-2 hours
With Appointment:
- Faster processing
- Less queue time
- More predictable timing
- Recommended
Walk-In:
- Longer queue times
- Less predictable
- May need to return if busy
- Not recommended during peak periods
License Card Production
Production Timeline
Card Production:
- Processing: 2-3 weeks
- Card Manufacturing: 1-2 weeks
- Distribution: 1 week
- Total: 4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline:
- Week 1-2: Application processing
- Week 3-4: Card production
- Week 4-6: Ready for collection
Factors Affecting Processing Time
Application Volume
Peak Periods (Slower):
- Month-end
- Beginning of year
- School holidays
- Public holidays (before/after)
- End of financial year
Normal Periods (Faster):
- Mid-month
- Mid-year
- Regular business periods
- Less busy times
Location Factors
Busy Centers:
- Major cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban)
- Central locations
- Longer processing times
- More applicants
Less Busy Centers:
- Smaller towns
- Suburban locations
- Faster processing
- Less queue time
Application Completeness
Complete Applications:
- All documents provided
- No missing information
- Faster processing
- No delays
Incomplete Applications:
- Missing documents
- Incorrect information
- Additional verification needed
- Processing delays
How to Check Status
Status Checking Methods
Method 1: SMS Notification
- Traffic department sends SMS when ready
- Provide mobile number during application
- Notification sent to registered number
- Check SMS for collection details
Method 2: Phone Inquiry
- Call traffic department
- Provide ID number
- Ask about license status
- Get collection information
Method 3: In-Person Inquiry
- Visit traffic department
- Bring ID and temporary license
- Check status at counter
- Get collection date
Method 4: Online (If Available)
- Some provinces offer online status check
- Check provincial traffic department website
- Enter ID number or reference
- View status online
Collection Process
When License is Ready
Notification:
- SMS notification (if number provided)
- Typically 4-6 weeks after application
- Contains collection instructions
- May include collection date
Collection:
- Visit traffic department
- Bring ID and temporary license
- Queue at collection counter
- Sign for license
- Verify details are correct
Collection Time:
- 15-30 minutes at traffic department
- Depends on queue
- Faster with appointment (if available)
- Check collection hours
Delayed Processing
If License is Delayed
After 6 Weeks:
- Contact traffic department
- Provide ID number and application details
- Inquire about delay
- Request status update
- Follow up if no response
Possible Reasons for Delay:
- High application volume
- Production issues
- System delays
- Missing information
- Verification requirements
Resolving Delays:
- Contact traffic department
- Provide any requested information
- Follow up regularly
- Visit department if necessary
- Request expedited processing (if available)
Temporary License Validity
During Processing
Temporary License:
- Valid for 6 months
- Issued immediately
- Legal to drive with
- Must carry when driving
If Processing Takes Longer:
- Temporary license valid for 6 months
- Should be sufficient for 4-6 week processing
- Contact department if license delayed beyond 6 weeks
- May need extension (if available)
Tips for Faster Processing
Expediting Renewal
- Renew Early: Renew 2-3 months before expiry
- Book Appointment: Book online to avoid queues
- Complete Documents: Bring all required documents
- Apply Off-Peak: Avoid month-end and holidays
- Choose Less Busy Center: Use suburban locations
- Follow Up: Check status after 4 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does license renewal take in 2026?
License renewal takes 4-6 weeks from application to collection. The application process at the traffic department takes 1-2 hours, and your new license card will be ready in 4-6 weeks.
Can I check my license renewal status?
Yes, you can check status by: SMS notification (if provided number), calling the traffic department, visiting in person, or checking online (if available in your province).
What if my license is delayed beyond 6 weeks?
Contact the traffic department immediately, provide your ID number and application details, inquire about the delay, and follow up regularly until resolved.
Can I drive while waiting for my new license?
Yes, you can drive with the temporary license issued immediately after your renewal application. The temporary license is valid for 6 months and is a legal driving document.
Does processing time vary by province?
Processing times are generally similar across provinces (4-6 weeks), but queue times at traffic departments may vary. Busier centers in major cities may have longer queue times for applications.
Conclusion
Driver's license renewal takes approximately 4-6 weeks from application to collection, with the application process taking 1-2 hours at the traffic department. You'll receive a temporary license immediately that's valid for 6 months. Factors like application volume, location, and application completeness can affect processing times. Renew early, book appointments, and follow up on your application status to ensure timely processing and collection of your new license.
