South Africa’s Department of Transport Picks IDEMIA for New Driver’s License Production

The Department of Transport (DOT) in South Africa has named IDEMIA Identity and Security South Africa as the preferred bidder to produce the country’s new smart driver’s license cards.

IDEMIA Identity, a subsidiary of the French multinational IDEMIA, was selected from five competing bids. The new license cards will include security features, such as biometric data, holograms, and watermarks, aimed at reducing fraud and counterfeiting.

“The new license card will incorporate new security features aimed at eliminating the ever-increasing risks of fraudulent and counterfeit driving licensees,” the DOT said in a statement. “Considering the cost drivers of producing the driving license, and the risk of fraud and corruption, the new driving license will continue to be manufactured centrally.”

The introduction of the new smart driving licenses is part of the South African government’s broader efforts to improve document security. The cards will be valid for eight years, extending the current five-year validity, and are expected to be produced within five working days, significantly faster than previous processing times.

The DOT has faced issues with outdated equipment, leading to delays in issuing driving licensees, and the new cards are seen as a solution to these challenges.

IDEMIA has previously worked with other government entities in the country, including the Department of Home Affairs and Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), providing biometric systems and e-gate solutions. However, the company has also been involved in controversies, including a recent contract termination with ACSA over allegations of misconduct.

Source: iTWeb

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September 4, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith