Central SA
Lengau testing centre reopens after safety concerns closure─── ZENANDE MPAME 10:45 Tue, 06 Jan 2026
Mangaung metro residents can again renew their licence disks, apply for learners’ and driving licences, and register their motor vehicles locally.
The Lengau testing centre in Bloemfontein reopened on Tuesday (6/1) after a temporary closure enforced by the department of employment and labour due to safety concerns identified during an inspection. It will resume its services of motor vehicle registration and licence disk renewals, learner’s licence applications and tests, driving licence applications and testing, and driving license card collection.
The building was closed on Friday, 19 December, after inspectors discovered cracks in the walls, damaged plumbing, and general structural weaknesses.
It was declared unsafe for occupation, forcing the department to act in line with legislation that requires the protection of both employees and members of the public.
“New dates for learner’s licence tests will be prioritised,” said Free State department of community safety, roads and transport spokesperson Hillary Mophethe.
“Clients will be contacted directly to reschedule. Clients who can visit the centre to reschedule may do so. The department wishes to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
This is not the first time the centre has been declared unsafe. The Public Servants Association welcomed the prohibition notice, despite previous contravention notices and clear instructions to remedy the identified non-compliance, which had been ignored.
The prohibitions related to poor housekeeping and fire hazards that posed health risks to employees, created serious fire hazards, obstructed emergency exits, and carried a high risk of injury.
The DA welcomed the reopening of the centre and expressed concerns that the department is not completing the maintenance work as agreed between itself and the department of labour.
“We are also aware that this is not the first time the centre has been closed due to scheduled maintenance,” said Free State DA road and transport spokesperson Jafta Mokoena.
“We urge the department to complete the work so that the residents of Mangaung can receive the services they deserve.”
The centre operates from 07:30 to 15:30 from Monday to Friday, and residents can visit the centre at the corner of Gutsche and Church Street next to OR Tambo Road in Ehrlich Park.
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