Get Complete Guide to Apply for the Learner License in South Africa,A learner’s licence is a permit that proves that you have basic knowledge of a motor vehicle and the rules of the road. The learner’s licence is valid for 24 months and cannot be extended.
Different learner’s licences are issued for the various categories of motor vehicle:
- Code 1: This is for a motor cycle with or without a sidecar, motor tricycle or quadrucycle. You must be 16 years or older on the date of the test in order to apply if the motorcycle’s engine does not exceed 125 cc and 18 years or older if it exceeds 125 cc.
- Code 2: This is for a motor vehicle, including a minibus, bus or goods vehicle, with a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3 500kg. You must be 17 years or older on the date of the test in order to apply.
- Code 3: This is for a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3 500kg. You must be 18 years or older on the date of the test in order to apply.
Learner’s licence application requirements
What are the minimum age requirements for obtaining a learner’s licence?
- Motorcycles 125 cc or less (without a sidecar): 16 years of age
- Light motor vehicles not more than 3 500 kg: 17 years of age
- All other vehicles (including motorcycles over 125 cc): 18 years of age
What can disqualify me from obtaining a learner’s licence?
- If you have previously been disqualified by a court of law from driving a motor vehicle, and this disqualification is still valid.
- If you already hold a valid licence to drive the same class of vehicle.
- If your licence to drive has been suspended or cancelled and the suspension/cancellation period has not yet expired.
- If you are suffering from one of the following diseases or disabilities:
- uncontrolled epilepsy;
- sudden attacks of disabling giddiness or fainting due to hypertension or any other cause;
- any form of mental illness to such an extent that it is necessary that you be detained, supervised, controlled and treated as a patient in terms of the Mental Health Act, 1973 (Act No. 18 of 1973);
- any condition causing muscular incoordination;
- uncontrolled diabetes mellitus;
- defective vision, determined by a prescribed standard; or
- any other disease or physical defect which is likely to render you incapable of driving effectively and controlling a motor vehicle without endangering the safety of the public (deafness is not regarded as such a defect).
- If you are addicted to the use of any drug having a narcotic effect, or to the excessive use of intoxicating liquor.
What will I need when I apply for my learner’s licence?
You must:
- meet the minimum age requirements set out above;
- meet the health requirements already explained;
- pass the eyesight test that is conducted at the testing centre;
- have acceptable identification with you when you apply (SA identity document or a passport); and
- have with you two recent passport-size identity photographs (black and white, or colour).
Learner’s licence applications
Once you have your TRN certificate, you can apply for your Learner’s License and even register a vehicle in your name. Head to your local traffic department or license department office. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Passport
- Valid Visa
- TRN certificate
- Card for payment (usually around R68)
- Application form
During this visit, you’ll wait in line and have your documents checked. In some cases, they might direct you to verify your visa status down the hall, where officials will ensure that your visa was issued by VFS and provide a tracking result. After an eye test and form filling, you’ll pay the required fee and book your Learner’s test date. Usually, there are available test dates for the following week.
Preparing for your test
In order to pass your learner’s test, you need to study and understand the rules of the road, road markings, road signs and the controls of a vehicle.
You can study in one or more of the following ways:
- Study the K53 book, which you can buy or borrow from one of our public libraries. You can also download a K53 application (APP) to assist you.
- When you’re out and about, try to properly identify road markings and signs. Don’t be afraid to ask a driver to explain a rule or road sign.
- Go over practice test papers and mock tests that are available online.
You must also undergo an eye test.
A learner’s licence is valid for two year
Take the Learners Test
On the day of your Learners test, you’ll report to the classroom to take the exam. It’s advisable to prepare by downloading the K53 app and practicing with K53 booklets. You’ll have one hour to complete the exam. If you pass, they’ll direct you to the payment window, where they’ll print your Learner’s License, and you’ll pay the remaining fee.
- Passport
- Card for Payment
- Booking Form
- Payment (around R33)
The Learner’s License is valid for two years, and you can proceed to book your driving test.
If you have any more questions or need advice on South African immigration matters, feel free to reach out to us and we’ll happily assist you.
On the day of the test
When you’ve made your appointment and received your test date, make sure you get to the venue 15 minutes before the time.
Remember to take:
- Your appointment sheet
- Your official identity document
- Stationery is provided at the testing centre.
Once you have your learner’s licence, you may drive the type of vehicle that your licence is valid for, but you need to have a licensed driver with you at all times.
Your learner’s licence will be valid for two years.
Call or visit your local traffic department to get information about the application process.
For more information contact:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a learner’s licence in South Africa?
A learner’s licence is a permit that demonstrates basic knowledge of a motor vehicle and road rules and allows the holder to drive under the supervision of a licensed driver.
How do I apply for a learner’s licence in South Africa?
You apply through a Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC), book a test, submit the required documents, complete the application and eye test, and pass the learner’s licence test.
Where do I apply for a learner’s licence?
You generally apply at a Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC). Gauteng residents are directed by the government to use the online eNatis system for learner’s licence applications.
What form is used to apply for a learner’s licence?
The application form is called LL1 – Application for Learner’s Licence.
What documents do I need for a learner’s licence?
You generally need an ID, photographs, proof of residential and postal address, the applicable booking fee and the required application form.
How many photographs are required for a learner’s licence?
The government guidance specifies two identical black-and-white ID photographs, but advises applicants to confirm the exact number required with their DLTC before taking the photographs.
Do I need proof of address to apply for a learner’s licence?
Yes. Proof of postal and residential address is among the documents listed by the South African Government.
What happens if the proof of address is not in my name?
The government states that the owner of the utility bill should make an affidavit confirming that you live at the address, with the utility bill attached.
Do I need an eye test for a learner’s licence?
Yes. You can have the eye test at the testing centre or have it performed by a qualified optometrist and submit the required form.
What is the minimum age for Code 2 learner’s licence?
You must be at least 17 years old on the date of the learner’s licence test for Code 2.
What is the minimum age for Code 3 learner’s licence?
You must be at least 18 years old on the date of the test for Code 3.
How old must I be to apply for Code 1?
For a Code 1 motorcycle up to 125 cc, you must be at least 16 years old on the date of the test. For a motorcycle above 125 cc, the minimum age is 18.
How long is a learner’s licence valid in South Africa?
A learner’s licence is valid for 24 months.
Can a learner’s licence be extended?
No. The South African Government states that a learner’s licence cannot be extended.
Can I drive alone with a learner’s licence?
No. A learner’s licence allows you to drive only when you are supervised by a licensed driver.
What should I study for the learner’s licence test?
You should study road signs, road rules, motor vehicle controls and basic motor vehicle knowledge.
What should I bring on the day of my learner’s licence test?
You should bring your booking receipt and ID to the test.
What happens after I pass the learner’s licence test?
You must pay the applicable issue fee. The learner’s licence is issued on the same day if you have passed and paid the required fee.
How much does a learner’s licence cost in South Africa?
The applicable fees vary by licensing authority. The South African Government advises applicants to contact their local licensing office for the current cost.
Do applicants aged 65 or older need a medical certificate?
Yes. Applicants aged 65 or older must complete the MC Medical Certificate form.
What can I do after getting a learner’s licence?
You can practise driving under the supervision of an appropriately licensed driver and prepare for your practical driving licence test.
Is a learner’s licence the same as a driving licence?
No. A learner’s licence permits supervised driving, while a full driving licence allows you to drive legally according to the conditions of the applicable licence.
Can I apply for a driving licence without a learner’s licence?
No. The Department of Transport states that you must have a learner’s licence before applying for a driving licence.
Where can I get official information about applying for a learner’s licence?
You can use the official South African Government and Department of Transport websites for learner’s licence requirements, forms and application guidance.
