New JMPD tech boosts digital use of SA driving licences

JOHANNESBURG — 8 August 2025

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) launched a smartphone-based enforcement system on 8 August 2025 that gives driving licence cards new digital functions, allowing real-time checks during power outages.

Public safety MMC Mgcini Tshwaku introduced the technology, which uses modified smartphones with portable printers to verify licence details, flag stolen vehicles, detect fake cards, and access violation histories from the eNatis database (JMPD statement).

Officers can also complete accident reports in under five minutes using the handheld devices.

Launch images indicate the technology includes Honeywell’s ScanPal EDA52 mobile computers, which use barcode scanning to read licence information.

Driving expert Rob Handfield-Jones said the system demonstrates physical cards’ continued relevance when combined with technology. “This proves that physical cards can work hand-in-hand with technology to make law enforcement faster, more accurate, and more reliable,” he stated (as per Mybroadband).

The mobile verification instantly confirms licence authenticity, helping keep only legal drivers on roads.

Motorists benefit from faster roadside checks and greater recognition of physical licence cards as valid identification.