A learner’s licence in South Africa is your ticket to the world of driving, allowing you to learn the rules of the road and get behind the wheel. In this guide, we’ll take you through the process of obtaining a learner’s licence, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for your journey towards becoming a licensed driver.
Step 1: Understand the Learner’s Licence
A learner’s licence is a permit that signifies your basic knowledge of motor vehicles and the rules of the road. With a learner’s licence, you are permitted to drive, but only when supervised by a licensed driver. If the vehicle you’re operating requires a professional driving permit, your supervising driver must also hold one.
Step 2: Determine the Appropriate Learner’s Licence Category
South Africa issues different learner’s licences for various categories of motor vehicles. Here’s an overview:
- Code 1: For motorcycles, motor tricycles, or quadrucycles. To apply, you must be 16 years or older for motorcycles with engines not exceeding 125 cc and 18 years or older if the engine exceeds 125 cc.
- Code 2: For motor vehicles with a gross vehicle mass not exceeding 3,500 kg. Applicants must be 17 years or older.
- Code 3: For motor vehicles with a gross vehicle mass exceeding 3,500 kg. Applicants must be 18 years or older.
Step 3: Get your Documentation Ready
Head to the nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) to book a test date and confirm the booking. You’ll need to take the following documents and items with you:
- An identity document (ID).
- Two identical black-and-white ID photographs (confirm the quantity with the DLTC).
- A booking fee.
- Proof of postal and residential address, such as a utility account. If the utility bill isn’t in your name, the owner of the bill must make an affidavit declaring that you live at the address, and the utility bill must be attached to the affidavit.
- If you live in an informal settlement, bring a letter with an official date stamp from your ward councillor confirming your postal and residential address.
- Gauteng residents can apply online for their learner’s licence here
- Complete the Application for learner’s licence form (LL1), available at the DLTC. If you’re 65 years or older, you must also complete a Medical certificate form (MC), also available at the DLTC.
Step 4: Prepare for the Learner’s Licence Test
Before taking the learner’s licence test, it’s essential to study road signs, motor vehicle controls, and road rules. This knowledge will ensure you have a solid foundation in understanding motor vehicles and road signs.
Step 5: Taking the Learner’s Licence Test
On the day of the test, submit the following:
- The booking receipt.
- Your ID.
- If you pass the test, you’ll need to pay the issue fee.
Step 6: Immediate Issuance of Learner’s Licence
Good news! Your learner’s licence is issued on the same day if you’ve passed the test and paid the relevant fee.
Step 7: Inquiries on Costs
For specific information about the cost of obtaining your learner’s licence, contact your local licensing office.
Obtaining a learner’s licence is a straightforward process, and it’s your first step towards becoming a licensed driver. By following these steps and ensuring you have the necessary documentation and knowledge, you can easily secure your learner’s licence and start your journey toward becoming a safe and responsible driver.