Freedom of the open road, exchanging your drivers licence

The UK is one of the few countries where a South African license is accepted thanks to an exchange agreement between the two countries.  Migrating to a country such as Australia will mean rewriting both your learners test as well as retaking the drivers test...so don't waste time having your SA license swapped to a  UK version!

You are entitled to drive in the UK for up to 12 months after becoming resident, using your SA license (make sure it's valid BEFORE you leave SA!).  You may wish to purchase a car but as many dealerships and insurance companies aren't quite certain of how to issue a Saffa license, you'll either be faced with a refusal to assist or a very steep quote.  Having the UK version eliminates any mistrust and immediately gives you credibility which can be traced.

The recommendation for exchanging your license is only after you have been in the country for 185 days, however they do exchange license earlier than that if you just apply.

What you will need to apply for an exchange:

  • Your card licence from SA (must be a valid licence)
  • A passport photo
  • Your passport, as well as BRP
  • The form D1 which can be ordered online (follow the link) or collected from a post office
  • A postal order for the fee of £43, include a self addressed, stamped enveloped (suggest using 1st class mail).
Once submitted, you should receive everything back, including your shiny new 10 year licence within 10 days.

Happy miles and smiles!

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