Can I renew my driving Licence after it expires?

In South Africa, your driving license is valid for a period of five years from date of issue. When your license gets to four years and ten months, you should approach your local traffic department for a re-issue. The license usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to issue, and you should receive your new license before the current one expires.

If your license has expired before you have requested or received a new one, you will have to have a temporary permit issued to bridge the gap, or you will not be legally allowed to drive.

Getting your license reissued is relatively simple and requires you to go to your local licensing department for an eye test, and to pay the re-issue fee. Four to six weeks later you will be given your new license card and you’re good for the next five years. There are some instances where you can take an eye-test at an optometrist beforehand, but some licensing offices still require an on-site test. Make a phone call to the testing centre to find out exactly what is required of you, and how much money to bring.

1. What to bring (if your card is still valid):

  • Your ID book, temporary ID or passport;
  • A copy of your ID;
  • Your current driver’s license;
  • Four ID photos;
  • Money for your renewal fee; (contact your local licensing office to find out the cost – in Cape Town it’s R140 but it varies from region to region, in Gauteng you’re looking at about R228);
  • Proof of residence.

2.  If your card has expired, bring the following:

  • The same as stipulated in 1, above, but you’ll need two extra ID photos;
  • Another R45 (in Cape Town, but it’s more expensive in Gauteng, at around R72) for your your temporary license, which is issued immediately. 

3. If your card got stolen or is missing:

  • The same as stipulated in 1 and 2;
  • An affidavit from the police which states your card was stolen or lost.

For all the other info and a list of licensing offices (and their contact numbers) in every province, you can visit the www.gov.za website HERE.

You can also download the relevant form HERE and fill it in before you go.

Tax and Insurance in South Africa 2025

Tax and Insurance in South Africa: What You Need to Know in 2025

In South Africa, understanding the relationship between tax and insurance is essential for protecting your financial future and making the most of available tax benefits. Whether you're an individual, a freelancer, or a business owner, the smart use of insurance can help you reduce your tax liability and safeguard your assets.

Why Insurance Matters for Tax in South Africa

Insurance is more than just a safety net—it can also have a direct impact on your tax situation. From medical insurance to business insurance, certain premiums and policies may qualify for deductions or influence how you declare your income and expenses to SARS (the South African Revenue Service).

  • Tax Deductions: Certain insurance premiums, especially related to medical schemes and business cover, may offer tax advantages.
  • Asset Protection: Insurance helps manage risk, ensuring you’re financially secure when unexpected events occur.
  • Estate Planning: Life insurance can play a key role in reducing estate duty and ensuring a smooth transfer of wealth.

Types of Insurance and Their Tax Implications

1. Medical Insurance (Medical Schemes)

If you're contributing to a registered medical aid, you're entitled to a Medical Scheme Fees Tax Credit (MTC). This credit is a fixed amount per month for you and your dependents and reduces your overall tax liability.

2. Life Insurance

While life insurance pay-outs (on death) are generally not subject to income tax, they can be considered when calculating estate duty. Policies structured under a trust or with specific beneficiaries may help reduce the overall tax burden on your estate.

3. Short-Term Insurance (Vehicle, Home, Contents)

Personal short-term insurance is not tax-deductible for individuals. However, if you use part of your home or vehicle for business, the portion of insurance premiums related to business use may be claimed as a business expense.

4. Business Insurance

For companies and self-employed individuals, business insurance premiums—such as professional indemnity, commercial property cover, or key person insurance—are usually tax-deductible as operating expenses.

5. Disability and Income Protection Insurance

The tax treatment of disability insurance changed in recent years. Payouts from income protection insurance are now generally taxed as income, but premiums are not tax-deductible. Understanding this shift is important when planning your cover.

Tax Tips to Maximise Your Insurance Benefits

  • Keep Detailed Records: Always keep documentation of insurance premiums, especially those linked to business or medical expenses.
  • Consult a Tax Practitioner: SARS regulations around insurance and tax can be complex. A registered tax advisor can help ensure you claim all available deductions correctly.
  • Review Policies Annually: Update your insurance portfolio regularly to ensure your cover aligns with your income, expenses, and current tax laws.
  • Use Structuring Wisely: For high-net-worth individuals, structuring life insurance policies within a trust can reduce estate duty exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions: Tax and Insurance in South Africa

Q: Can I deduct life insurance premiums from my South African taxes?
A: No, life insurance premiums are generally not deductible. However, they may play a key role in estate planning.

Q: Are medical aid contributions tax-deductible?
A: Not exactly. Instead, you receive a Medical Tax Credit—a fixed monthly rebate that reduces your tax payable.

Q: Can I claim car insurance as a tax deduction?
A: Only if the vehicle is used for business purposes. You can claim the business-use portion of your vehicle insurance.

Q: Is business insurance tax-deductible in South Africa?
A: Yes. Business insurance premiums related to company operations are generally tax-deductible.

Final Thoughts

In South Africa, insurance isn't just about protection—it's a strategic tool for managing your tax liability, preserving wealth, and supporting long-term financial stability. Whether you’re reviewing your medical insurance, planning your estate, or choosing the right business insurance, it’s essential to understand how these choices affect your tax outcomes.

With the right advice and a well-structured insurance portfolio, you can reduce your tax bill while ensuring comprehensive protection for yourself, your family, or your business.