New limit for heavy motor licences

2010-11-30 22:51

Johannesburg - A person granted a heavy motor driving licence from February next year would no longer be allowed to drive a light motor vehicle, the department of transport said on Tuesday.

"Persons who obtain a code C, C1, EC or EC1 driving licence will not be allowed to drive a motor vehicle that requires a code B or code EB licence," department spokesperson Sam Monareng said in a statement.

"This only applies to new licences issued as from 1 February 2011," he said.

Monareng said that anyone renewing their driving licences would have the same authorisations that previously applied.

"A general learner's licence is also being considered to allow persons to apply for a second category of driving licence without having to undergo the entire process of acquiring another learner's licence," he said.

Holders of two categories of licences would not be required to carry two different licence cards. Instead, one licence card with the necessary authorisations would be endorsed.

These and other changes to road traffic legislation were a result of amendments made during November to the National Road Traffic Regulations and the National Road Traffic Amendment Acts of 1999 and 2008.

Amendments made included the fitting of number plates with pop rivets or screws from August this year, as well as the introduction of directional stability control devices for all mini- and midi-buses.

Provision was made for municipal police officers to occupy the dual role of being a traffic officer.

"Authorisation (has also been) granted...for drivers of medical and firefighting response vehicles and authorised persons...to exceed the speed limit and transgress road traffic signs in the execution of duties," Monareng said.

He said the pertinent acts and gazettes could be consulted for full amendment details.

- SAPA