What documents do I need to renew my driver’s license South Africa?

What you need to take with you:

  • Original ID document or Smart Card ID. (An A4 copy of ID is required in Edenvale, Johannesburg. Maybe their photocopiers are broken!).
  • Proof of residence. This needs to be an official document not older than three (3) months that clearly states your address, for example, a bank statement, account or utility bill.
  • Take a pen with you. They do not have pens there.
  • Glasses or contact lenses if needed for driving.
  • Your current or expired drivers licence. If your licence has already expired you can take out a temp licence for R90. This is not compulsory and you have to ask for the temporary licence at the cashier. A fee of R90 is payable in cash.
  • 2 black and white ID photographs for the temporary licence (optional). You can bring these along. There is also a booth at most testing stations that will take the photographs for you. It is around R50 for a set of 4. In Johannesburg, only 1 photograph (colour or black & white) is required. The Randburg testing centre requires 2x black and white photos for renewal. In Vanderbijlpark, only 1 colour photograph is needed.
  • DL1 (green) form. This form can be obtained at the testing centre or online from the eNatis website here. Fill out sections A, B and D. Andrea pointed out in the comments: “I had to use the department’s form because it needs to be in a double sided-A3 format (like a file) so their docs can be inserted in it.” Liam also pointed out that Marlboro does not accept the web form and you have to fill out theirs. One of our readers, Chanel has kindly edited an A3 version of the form here.
  • Gauteng users new to book online in advance at https://online.natis.gov.za which will have a list of all Gauteng RTI’s only. The RTMC will pilot the project in Gauteng and will be rolled out to other provinces in future.
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.