NATIONAL Driver License Service (NDLS) and the National Car Testing Service (NCT) are to be suspended until further notice to tackle the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) it has been announced on Saturday, March 28, and takes immediate effect.
The Minister of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross and the RSA confirm the move is in order to comply with the new public restrictions, announced by Government on Friday March 27.
Minister Ross has asked his officials to “immediately engage with the RSA to introduce measures” to address the arising issues from the suspension of these services.
He said, “It is critical that we give drivers as well as operators of commercial vehicles peace of mind in relation to the status of their licence, learner permit, NCT certificate or certificate of roadworthiness, especially if it has expired or is likely to expire during the period of the Covid19 health crisis.
“Specifically, I am looking at introducing measures that will extend the period of validity of these official documents and hope to provide further detail for the public next week”.
The Independent Politician stressed that in the meantime “people should not and do not need to worry about these things” and everyone must now “focus on abiding” by measures introduced by Government on Friday evening.
He continued, “At the same time, we must also be conscious of the need to save lives on the roads and, indeed, avoid diverting medical staff to deal with the consequences of drivers not driving safely.
“Road Safety laws remain in force and will be enforced. Drivers must not speed or drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs and they must keep their vehicles roadworthy – for their own sakes and all our sakes. ”
