Apply for a Driving Licence in South Africa
To drive legally on South African roads, you need a valid driving licence. The process involves two main stages: obtaining a learner’s licence and then applying for a driving licence, which requires a practical driving test. You must be in possession of a valid learner’s licence before you can book your practical test.
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About Applying for a Driving Licence
To drive legally on South African roads, you need a valid driving licence. The process involves two main stages: obtaining a learner’s licence and then applying for a driving licence, which requires a practical driving test. You must be in possession of a valid learner’s licence before you can book your practical test. The driving licence you apply for must correspond to the vehicle you will be tested in.
Types of Driving Licence Codes
South Africa has different licence codes for various vehicle types and sizes. The age requirements also vary depending on the code you are applying for.
- Code A1: For motorcycles with an engine not exceeding 125 cc. You must be at least 17 years old.
- Code A: For motorcycles with an engine exceeding 125 cc. You must be at least 18 years old.
- Code B: For light motor vehicles, including minibuses and goods vehicles, with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) not exceeding 3,500 kg. You must be at least 18 years old.
- Code C1: For medium motor vehicles, buses, minibuses, or goods vehicles with a GVM between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg. You must be at least 18 years old.
- Code C: For heavy motor vehicles, buses, or goods vehicles with a GVM exceeding 16,000 kg. You must be at least 18 years old.
- Code EB: For articulated light motor vehicles (a light motor vehicle drawing a trailer) with a gross combination mass (GCM) not exceeding 3,500 kg. You must be at least 18 years old.
- Code EC: For articulated heavy motor vehicles (a heavy motor vehicle drawing a trailer) with a GCM exceeding 16,000 kg. You must be at least 18 years old.
Step-by-Step Application Process
The application process is typically completed at a Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC). Here’s a breakdown of the steps:
Step 1: Booking a Test
You must visit a DLTC to book a date for your practical driving test. When booking, you will need to bring the following:
- Your valid learner’s licence.
- Your identity document (ID) or a valid South African passport.
- Four identical black-and-white photographs. It is essential to confirm the exact number of photos required with the DLTC before having them taken.
- Proof of residential address. A utility account not older than three months is standard. If the bill is not in your name, the owner must provide a sworn affidavit declaring that you live at the address, and the utility bill must be attached. If you reside in an informal settlement, you must provide a letter with an official stamp from a ward councillor.
- A booking fee, which varies by province and licence code.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Learner’s Licence | Valid learner’s licence corresponding to the vehicle type |
| Identification | Identity document (ID) or valid South African passport |
| Photographs | Four black-and-white photos (confirm quantity with DLTC) |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill (≤3 months old), or affidavit with owner’s bill, or ward councillor letter for informal settlements |
| Booking Fee | Varies by province and licence code |
You will complete the Application for driving licence form (DL1) at the centre. After paying the booking fee, you will receive a receipt, which serves as both proof of payment and confirmation of your test date and time. In provinces like Gauteng, you may be able to start the application and booking process online via the eNaTIS portal: https://www.natis.gov.za/.
Step 2: The Practical Driving Test
On the day of the test, arrive at the DLTC at the specified time with your learner’s licence and your booking receipt. A qualified examiner will conduct the practical assessment, which typically follows the K53 driving standard.
Step 3: After Passing the Test
If you successfully pass the driving test, you will complete the final steps at the DLTC:
- Fingerprints and Eye Test: Your fingerprints will be taken to process your new licence card. You will also undergo an eye test at the centre. Alternatively, you can have an eye test performed by a qualified optometrist beforehand and submit the results.
- Issuing a Temporary Licence: You will pay a separate licence issuing fee and receive a temporary driving licence immediately. This permit is valid for six months and allows you to drive legally while you wait for your permanent card to be produced.
Step 4: Collecting Your Permanent Licence
Your permanent driving licence card is typically ready for collection at the same DLTC where you applied within four to six weeks. You will be notified when it is ready. It is important to collect your new card within 120 days to prevent it from being destroyed, which would require you to re-apply and pay all fees again.
Costs and Contact Information
The costs associated with applying for a driving licence, including the booking fee and the issuing fee, are not uniform across South Africa. They vary by municipality and licence code. It is essential to contact your local Department of Transport or licensing office directly to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on the fees and processes.