What do you need to get your South African Drivers license?
Want to get your South African drivers license? Here is everything you need to know.
Age Requirement:
- You must be over the age of 18 to apply for a driver’s license.
- If you wish to ride a small motorcycle (engine size up to 125 cc), you can apply for a learner’s license at the age of 16.
Learner’s License:
- Before applying for your driver’s license, you need to obtain a learner’s license.
- To get your learner’s license, you’ll need to pass a written test that checks your knowledge of road rules and regulations.
- A score of at least 75% is required to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test after one month.
Documentation for Learner’s License Application:
- A valid ID card or book is required.
- Proof of address, such as a utility bill, must also be provided.
Driver’s License Application:
- Once you have your learner’s license, you can apply for your driver’s license.
- To obtain your driver’s license, you must pass a practical driving test. This test evaluates your driving skills, road rule knowledge, and confidence behind the wheel.
License Renewal:
- You can renew your driver’s license 1 to 3 months before its expiry date.
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Types of Drivers Licenses You Can Get in South Africa
In South Africa, you are eligible to drive a car when you are 18 years of age. If you wish to ride a small motorcycle with an engine size of 125 cc, you apply at the age of 17.
There are different driving licenses, the type of license you choose depends on the type of vehicle you want to drive. The key categories include:
| Types of license | Age limit | Vehicle requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Code A1 License |
17 |
125cc motorcycles |
|
Code A License |
18 |
Above 125cc motorcycles |
|
Code B (Light Motor Vehicle) License |
18 |
Vehicle < 3,500 kg |
|
Code C1 License |
18 |
Heavy vehicles with a GVM between 3,500 kg to 16,000 kg |
|
Code C License |
21 |
Heavy vehicles with a GVM exceeding 16,000 kg |
|
Code EB License |
18 |
Light Vehicles with trailer exceeding 750 kg. |
|
Code EC1 License |
21 |
Heavy vehicles with a GVM between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg, including a trailer exceeding 750 kg. |
|
Code EC License |
21 |
Heavy vehicles with GVM exceeding 16,000 kg and a trailer exceeding 750 kg. |
Getting your Learners License
The Application Process for a Learner's License
To drive legally on the roads of South Africa, the first step is obtaining a learner’s license. This learners license is valid for two years and allows you to drive, provided a fully licensed driver is in the car with you at all times.
Here are the documents needed to get your learners license.
- An application fee or R68
- Two passport sized photographs.
- Proof of address. (Not older than 3months)
- Your Identity document.
- You will need to complete the LL1 form at the traffic department.
Preparing for your learner's license test
To pass your learner’s test, you must pass your learner test which assesses your understand of;
- The rules of the road,
- Road signs and,
- Vehicle controls.
You can prepare by studying the K53 Learner’s manual or using the practice/mock tests available online.
Getting your Drivers License
Documents needed to apply for your drivers license?
Once you have gotten your learners license, the next step is to apply for your drivers license. To apply, you’ll need the following documents:
- A valid learner’s license.
- A completed Driver’s Licence Form (DL1), to be submitted at your local Driver’s License testing center DLTC.
- Your ID.
- Four (4) passport photographs.
- Proof of address. (Not older than 3months).
- A receipt that servers as a proof of payment, and shows the date and time of your test.
- An eye test report from an approved optometrist. This can also be done at the DLTC.
Preparing and passing your driving test?
With your learner’s license in hand you can start your driving lessons. It’s recommended to complete at least 45 hours of driving practice before taking your text to build confidence.
💡The practical driving test will check your skills in areas like:
- Reversing
- Manoeuvring
- Controlling the vehicle
- Parking
If you pass, you’ll be issued a temporary license valid for 3months. A few weeks later, you’ll get a message from the license department to collect your permanent drivers license card which will be valid for 5yrs.
Renewing your Driver's license
Key details about renewing your drivers license
Renewing your driver’s license is a straightforward process. Unlike obtaining your initial license, you do not need to take a driving test for renewal. However, you must:
- Renew your license card up to one month before its expiry to avoid applying for a temporary driving license, which incurs an additional fee.
- Complete an eye test at the DLTC or submit a report from an approved optometrist. If your vision has worsened, new conditions may be added to your license.
- Have your fingerprints taken at the DLTC.
Documents needed to renew your drivers license?
Visit your nearest DLTC with the following items to renew your driving license:
Identity Document (ID): Bring your original ID, a copy, or a valid South African passport. You can also present your old driver’s license card.
ID Photos: Provide four black-and-white photos, but confirm the number with the DLTC beforehand.
Proof of Address: A utility bill (not older than three months). If the bill is not in your name, provide an affidavit from the owner confirming your residence, with the bill attached.
For informal settlement residents, get a letter from your ward councillor with a current stamp.
Having the necessary documents and understanding the process can save you time and stress. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth renewal experience!
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