However, to drive legally, you need to pass a few tests.
Depending on what driver’s code you apply for, you need to do a written (the learners license) and practical (your drivers license) exam. These driving license tests must be done through the traffic or licensing departments.
Once you have your learners license, you are halfway there towards driving on the road by yourself. When preparing for your practical drivers test, it is highly recommended that you go to a traffic or driving school.
Your learners test is made up of multiple choice questions relating to the rules of the road, road signs and the inside of a vehicle.
According to driving instructor Bernard Luker, applicants will not be able to get their learners licences by luck, therefore, they will have to study from the learners manual.
To apply for a learners licence you must be 17 years of age. You can write your learners licence at any licensing department in South Africa, but preferably the closest to you.
To get your learners licence you will need:
* An appointment date made from the call centre.
* Your identity book or temporary identity.
* You will have to go for an eye test.
* Identity photographs.
On the day of the test you will be directed to the examination room; in this stage you might begin to be scared, because then you will see that there are about 20 other people also ready to write their exam. The receipt for your appointment will be asked, so do not leave it at home.
After you have passed your learners test you will have about 18 months to apply for your drivers licence before your learners licence expires. It is suggested that you give yourself enough time to go for atleast 10 driving lessons before going for your drivers test.
According to Luker, if you practice what you are taught you will learn how to drive a lot quicker.
“During their test, learners should remember that if they disobey any road rules ,they will immediately fail the test,” says Luker.
He adds that learners should keep the following in mind:
* Do not bump any poles.
* Do not roll on the incline.
* Do not speed.
* Check every side road when out on the road.
* Check the rearview mirror.
“Learners should beware when driving through an uncontrolled intersections, as there are no road signs, and they should make sure they are going slow enough to notice any other vehicles,” he explains.
After you have passed your drivers licence, you will need:
* Your learners licence.
* Your identity book.
* Identity photographs.
Once you have completed all your forms, you will become an official licenced driver.
