Converting Botswana driver license

Question

Please advise what is required to exchange my Botswana SADC divers’ license to a South African drivers license and if there is a time frame required. I am now a citizen of South Africa by late birth registration in 2004, was in Botswana carrying my South African I.D. before coming to settle in South Africa. I got my late birth certificate in 2004 with my I.D. and passport, but was working in Botswana till September 2008 where I resided all that time. I produced my lease for where I now stay in Johannesburg which started in Sept 2008. My Botswana works and residence permits expire September 2009 along with my Botswana SADC driver’s license. I have also since purchased a vehicle in the interim and submitted my Botswana driver’s license which was accepted here. This is why I do not understand why I cannot get my foreign license exchange. I’m told that the Botswana drivers’ license system is also based on the K 53 like South Africa thus the SADC printed on the license too. I am now required to go through the entire driver's license procedure. Is that necessary? PLEASE advise.

Answer

In terms of regulation 110, you must convert your foreign licence to a SA licence within 1 year of obtaining or resuming permanent residence. As you returned in September 2008, you have until September 2009 to exchange the licence.