‘Cash For Driving Licence’ Scandal: Eight Appear In Limpopo Court

Getting a learner’s licence normally means studying the rules, sitting the required test and waiting for the result.

But investigators say a group operating at the Marble Hall driving licence testing centre (DLTC) allegedly found a much easier — and illegal — way to get applicants through the system: cash.

Eight people, including government employees, appeared before the Groblersdal Magistrate’s Court in Limpopo on charges of fraud and corruption following an investigation by the Special Investigating Unit (SIU), SAPS crime intelligence and the Sekhukhune district tactical investigating team.

Learner’s Licences Allegedly Sold For R2,000

According to the SIU investigation, employees at the Marble Hall DLTC allegedly sold learner’s licences for R2,000 each, allowing applicants to obtain the licences without undergoing the required testing process.

Investigators allege that NaTIS officers and cashiers worked with driving school owners and traffic examiners to process fraudulent applications.

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The alleged operation reportedly went beyond individual transactions, with investigators uncovering bulk deals involving between 20 and 30 learner’s licences at a time.

The authorities said these transactions bypassed the lawful licensing process and enabled applicants to obtain licences without completing the required procedures.

Cash Found Hidden In Cashiers’ Underwear

The investigation took another dramatic turn when two cashiers, aged 53 and 63, were allegedly found carrying cash hidden in their underwear.

Investigators reportedly recovered a combined R5,300 from the two women.

The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation targeting people allegedly involved in the scheme. Four suspects were arrested on Friday, while another four surrendered to police before their appearance in court on Monday.

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Authorities also intercepted suspects from KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo who were allegedly travelling to collect illegally issued learner’s licences.

All eight accused will remain in custody until 21 September, when they are expected to apply for bail.

Limpopo Licence Scandal Part Of Wider Fraud Problem

The Marble Hall investigation comes against the backdrop of several cases involving alleged fraud and corruption within South Africa’s licensing system.

In February 2025, authorities arrested 23 people over allegations involving the fraudulent issuing of driving licences at DLTCs in Lephalale, Thabazimbi and Bela-Bela. One of the suspects, a driving licence examiner, was allegedly rearrested in May while out on bail, alongside three other suspects.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) said the examiner had previously been caught allegedly processing learner’s licence applications and declaring applicants competent despite them not being present in class.

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More recently, authorities arrested an alleged ringleader linked to a multimillion-rand syndicate operating across Gauteng and the Free State. According to the RTMC, that investigation involved allegations of stolen NaTIS login credentials, fake companies, deceased people's identities, manipulated vehicle classifications and fraudulent roadworthy certificates.

The SIU said its investigation into the Marble Hall allegations is continuing.

“The investigation will continue, and criminal and disciplinary action will follow against any persons found to have participated in or facilitated the alleged corruption,” said the SIU.

“Corruption at licensing centres will not be tolerated. SAPS and the SIU remain committed to protecting the integrity of the licensing system and ensuring those who undermine lawful processes are brought to account.”

Members of the public can report suspected bribery, fraud and corruption involving traffic policing and driving licence matters anonymously by emailing ntacu@rtmc.co.za or sending a WhatsApp message to 083-293-7989.