You need a learner's licence before you can legally be taught to drive on a public road in South Africa. You get it by passing the learner's licence test at a driving licence testing centre (DLTC).
What the test covers
- Rules of the road and other legal matters, from the National Road Traffic Act.
- Road traffic signs, signals and road markings.
- The use of vehicle controls: which control does what, such as the clutch, parking brake, indicator and mirrors.
The test is most often reported as 64 questions in three parts: 8 on vehicle controls (6 to pass), 28 on signs (23 to pass) and 28 on rules (22 to pass). Each part is marked on its own, so you must pass all three. The Department of Transport has not published this in a form we could confirm, so check with your DLTC.
Which code do you need?
- Code 1, motorcycles: from 16 for up to 125 cc, from 18 for bigger motorcycles. You may not carry a passenger.
- Code 2, light motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg (most cars): from 17.
- Code 3, light and heavy motor vehicles: from 18.
With code 2 or 3 you may drive only under the direct supervision of someone who holds a driving licence for that class of vehicle.
How to book
- Book a test date at your nearest DLTC and pay the booking fee. In Gauteng, apply online on eNaTIS.
- Fill in form LL1. Bring two identical photos, your ID and a copy, and the fee. If you are 65 or older, you also need a medical certificate (form MC).
- Have an eye test at the testing centre, or bring a form completed by an optometrist.
- On test day, bring your booking receipt. If you pass, pay the issue fee for your learner's licence.
Each province sets its own fees, so ask your DLTC for the current amount.
How to prepare
- Learn the signs by their shape and colour. Red rings prohibit, blue circles command, red-bordered triangles warn and yellow signs are temporary (roadworks). There are many signs, and the signs part has the highest pass mark.
- Know the key numbers: 60 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h outside them, 120 km/h on freeways; alcohol under 0.05 g per 100 ml of blood; at least 2 seconds' following distance; headlights on whenever you cannot see clearly for 150 m.
- Learn the controls by name. Picture the pedals (clutch, brake, accelerator from left to right) and the hand controls, and know which ones you use together, for example the clutch and gear lever to change gear.
- Practise each part separately. Failing one part fails the whole test even if your total is high.
- Take full mock tests until you pass every part comfortably.
After you pass
Your learner's licence is valid for 24 months and cannot be extended. Practise with a licensed supervisor, then book the driving licence test (form DL1) at a DLTC before it expires.
Start with the free South African learner's licence practice tests.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.