Recently, two updates to road traffic legislation were made. One of these may have an effect on transporters that have cross-border trips in their operations. The second new legislation will affect anyone that has a driving licence.
Border Management Authority Act (2/2020)
The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that this Act is now in effect. This allows for the deployment of a Border Guard to patrol vulnerable areas along the border for law enforcement purposes.
When the Act was signed into effect. President Cyril Ramaphosa made the following quote “The legislation therefore contributes to the security of the country and the integrity and ease of trade and the general movement of persons and goods in and out of the country.”
The BMA Act started with the appointment of a Commissioner and two Deputy-Commissioners who:
- Recruit guards
- Ensure that the Border Management Authority (BMA) is a standalone Schedule 3A entity responsible for the borders by 01 April 2023. At the present moment, the BMA is incubated as a Branch in the Department of Home Affairs
To read further information on the BMA Act click here
New South African driving licence card
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula announced that the department plans to introduce a new driving licence card in South Africa from October 2023. The Minister says the current card will be phased out over a five-year period. The government is also considering extending the renewal period of the card from five to possibly ten years. Yet, this has not been confirmed.
What you can expect:
- A pilot of the cards will take place from 1 November 2023 to 31 March 2024 while infrastructure is obtained
- The new cards will have a more secure design
- These cards are in-line with international licensing standards
- It is the start of South Africa’s e-driving licence plan due to start between 2024 and 2025
- Current cards will remain valid until March 31 2029