LEARNING to drive – and becoming a legal, licensed driver – is a milestone in many a teenager’s life.
South African Government Services has this information to share with those thinking about taking to the roads for the first time.
About a learner’s licence
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.
If you hold a learner’s licence you are allowed to drive only when you are supervised by a licensed driver. If the category of vehicle you are driving requires a professional driving permit, the licensed driver must also hold a professional driving permit.
Different learner’s licences are issued for the various categories of motor vehicle:
- Code 1: 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: 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: 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.
How to apply
Go to your nearest driving licensing testing centre (DLTC) to book a test date and confirm the booking. Take the following with you:
- Your identity document (ID)
- Two identical black-and-white ID photographs (before you have photographs taken you should confirm with the DLTC how many photos they require)
- Your booking fee.
Complete the application for learner’s licence form (LL1), which is available at the DLTC. If you are 65 years or older, you must also complete a medical certificate form (MC), which is also available at the DLTC.
You will go for an eye test at the testing centre or you may have an eye test performed by a qualified optometrist and submit the form at the testing centre.
Before you write the learner’s licence test, you must study road signs, motor vehicle controls and road rules to have a basic knowledge of a motor vehicle and road signs.
On the day of the test you must submit the following:
- The booking receipt
- Your ID.
If you pass the test you must pay the issue fee.
How long does it take?
The learner’s licence is issued on the same day if you passed the test and paid the relevant fee.
How much does it cost?
Contact your local licensing office for the cost. The Port Shepstone licensing office can be contacted at 039 688 2128
