By Sipho Tshabalala

The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has officially launched the first of its kind, mobile smart Driving Licensing Testing Centre (DLTC) in Refilwe, Cullinan in the City of Tshwane. Four fully-fitted mobile trucks were unveiled.
 
Launching the Mobile Licensing Services demonstrates the Department's commitment to bringing vehicle and driver licensing services closer to where residents/motorists are. This also serves to address challenges related licensing renewal backlog. 
 
Equipped with advanced technology, each truck has six learner license testing stations and is staffed by experienced and dedicated officials. The mobile units offer a range of services that include renewals of driving licenses, motor vehicle licenses (discs), applications for learner's licenses and other licensing services. Equipped with advanced technology, each truck has six learner license testing stations and is staffed by experienced and dedicated officials.
 
Speaking at the event, MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela noted that “this launch is part of the Department’s broader plan, addressing the needs of underserved areas and improving efficiency in public service delivery through the deployment of mobile licensing services across the township, informal settlements, and hostels (TISH) areas within the province.”

 The Department views the launch as significant for licensing services, as it is expected to provide extra - and alternative service points to assist in reducing waiting periods - thus enhancing customer experience - at licensing offices throughout the province. 
 
The end goal being to help alleviate delays faced by citizens when applying for these documents. Furthermore, this is in line with the Province’s elevated priorities which seek to improve the living conditions in townships, informal settlements, and hostels (TISH) and revitalization of CBD’s.
 
MEC Diale-Tlabela also highlighted that in the previous financial year, the Department “established a technologically advanced smart licensing centre in Atteridgeville's Mnandi Shopping complex, staffed by experienced professionals”.

 She added “this centre has provided exceptional service, underscoring our dedication to transforming Gauteng into a high-tech and smart province, aligned with the principles of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.” 
 
A resident of Refilwe township, Mdumiseni Mahlangu (19) was appreciative of the initiative. “Government is doing great with these kinds of interventions and we are grateful. Please do more to avail such services and uplift residents in communities such as ours”.
 
The mobile office will serve to not only reduce congestion at licensing offices but also reach citizens who can’t take the time out of their days to visit these offices. MEC also “implored the community of Refilwe to zealously protect and care for this mobile licensing unit”. 
 
She added that “neglecting this responsibility may result in the need to travel extensively and incur unnecessary costs for services once readily available”. “The citizens of this province have exhibited a pronounced affinity for innovative projects, as exemplified by the Gautrain Stations licensing centres' efficient operations, which diminished waiting times and effectively curtailed corruption”.