A learner’s license is a legal permit that demonstrates your basic knowledge of vehicle operation and the rules of the road. It is crucial to remember that with a learner’s license, you can only drive when accompanied by a licensed driver. This license is valid for 24 months and cannot be extended, so it’s important to make the most of it during that period.
Categories of Learner’s Licenses
In South Africa, different categories of learner’s licenses are available, depending on the type of vehicle you wish to operate:
- Code 1: For motorcycles (with or without a sidecar, tricycle, or quadricycle). You must be 16 years or older for motorcycles with an engine capacity not exceeding 125 cc, and 18 years or older for those exceeding 125 cc.
- Code 2: For motor vehicles, including minibuses, buses, or goods vehicles, with a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3,500 kg. You must be 17 years or older to apply.
- Code 3: For motor vehicles with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3,500 kg. Applicants must be 18 years or older.
How to Make a Learner’s Booking
Step 1: Visit Your Nearest Driving Licensing Testing Centre (DLTC)
To book your learner’s license test, go to your nearest DLTC. It’s advisable to call ahead and confirm the requirements. Here’s what you need to bring along:
- Identity Document (ID): This is essential for verification.
- Two Identical Black-and-White ID Photographs: Check with the DLTC beforehand regarding the number of photos needed.
- Booking Fee: Payment varies by province (see cost section below).
- Proof of Postal and Residential Address: This can be a utility bill in your name or an affidavit if the bill is not in your name. If you live in an informal settlement, a letter with an official date stamp from your ward councillor is required.
Step 2: Complete Required Forms
- Application for Learner’s Licence Form (LL1): Available at the DLTC or online.
- If you’re 65 years or older, complete the Medical Certificate Form (MC).
Step 3: Eye Test
You can either undergo an eye test at the testing centre or have one done by a qualified optometrist. Ensure to submit the test form at the testing centre.
Step 4: Study for the Test
Before your test day, study essential topics such as road signs, motor vehicle controls, and road rules. Familiarity with these topics will increase your chances of passing.
Step 5: Submit on Test Day
On the day of the test, remember to bring:
- Your booking receipt.
- Your ID.
If you pass, you will need to pay the issue fee to receive your learner’s license, which is issued the same day.
How Long Does It Take?
Once you’ve passed your learner’s license test and paid the relevant fees, your learner’s license is issued on the same day. However, booking an appointment at the traffic department can take up to three months. If you’re looking for quicker results, consider exploring available learner’s packages that can secure your learner’s license within two weeks.
Costs Associated with Learner’s License Booking
Booking and issue fees vary by province:
| Province | Booking Fee | Issue Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern Cape | R162 | R51 |
| Free State | R95 | R65 |
| Gauteng | R95 | R55 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | R115 | R55 |
| Limpopo | R135 | R55 |
| Mpumalanga | R120 | R35 |
| Northern Cape | R85 | R50 |
| North West | R95 | R55 |
| Western Cape | R95 | R55 |