A Code 2 learner’s licence in South Africa allows individuals who are at least 17 years old to legally drive light motor vehicles with a tare weight or gross vehicle mass (GVM) not exceeding 3,500 kg on public roads, provided they are accompanied by a fully licensed driver.To obtain this licence, applicants must submit an official LL1 application form along with a valid South African ID or passport, pass a mandatory eyesight test, provide proof of residence, pay the required provincial booking fee, and pass the official K53 written examination.Once issued, a Code 2 learner’s licence remains valid for 24 months across all South African provinces.
What is a Code 2 Learner’s Licence in South Africa?
A Code 2 (or Code 02) learner’s licence is an official provisional permit issued by the Department of Transport through a Driver’s Licence Testing Centre (DLTC).It certifies that the holder possesses sufficient knowledge of road traffic rules, road safety signs, and basic vehicle controls to operate a light motor vehicle under supervision.
Vehicle Class Coverage
A Code 2 learner’s licence applies to all light motor vehicles. This includes:
- Standard Passenger Cars: Sedans, hatchbacks, station wagons, and coupes.
- Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and Crossovers.
- Light Delivery Vehicles (LDVs): Bakkies, small delivery vans, and light panel vans.
- Minibuses and Small Goods Vehicles:Provided the tare mass or Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) does not exceed 3,500 kg.
It does not permit you to ride motorcycles (which require a Code 1 licence) or operate heavy vehicles, buses, or articulated trucks exceeding 3,500 kg (which require a Code 3 licence).
Validity Period
The Code 2 learner’s licence is valid for 24 months (2 years) from the date of issue.It cannot be extended or renewed.If your learner’s licence expires before you pass your practical driving test, you must reapply, pay the fees, and retake the written test.
Key Requirements and Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Code 2 learner’s licence, applicants must meet specific age, health, and documentation standards set out by South African traffic legislation.
1. Minimum Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 17 years old on or before the day they book their test. Individuals under 17 cannot register or sit for a Code 2 learner’s test.
2. Medical and Physical Fitness
You must meet the health standards mandated by the National Road Traffic Act. You may be disqualified if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
- Uncontrolled epilepsy.
- Sudden attacks of disabling giddiness or fainting caused by hypertension or other medical conditions.
- Severe mental health conditions requiring detention or psychiatric treatment.
- Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus.
- Physical defects or muscular incoordination impairing safe vehicle control.
- Addiction to narcotic drugs or excessive use of intoxicating liquor.
- Defective vision that does not meet the prescribed eye test standards.
3. Documentation Checklist
When visiting the DLTC to make a booking, you must present:
- Identification:Original green barcoded South African ID book, Smart ID card, or a valid foreign passport.(Foreign nationals also require a Traffic Register Number certificate).
- Application Form:A fully completed LL1 form (Application for Learner’s Licence), available at DLTCs or printable online.
- Photographs:Two recent, identical passport-sized photographs (black-and-white or colour).
- Proof of Address: A utility bill, retail account statement, or bank statement reflecting your name and residential address (not older than 3 months). If living with parents, a sworn affidavit accompanied by the property owner’s proof of address is required.
- Application Fee:Cash or card payment for the booking fee (varies by province).
Step-by-Step Booking and Application Process
Step 1: Make an Appointment
You can book an appointment either online or in person:
- Gauteng and Select Regions: Book an appointment slot online using the National Traffic Information System (eNaTIS) portal (
online.natis.gov.za). - Other Provinces:Visit your nearest Driver’s Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) directly to secure a test date.
Step 2: Document Submission and Eyesight Test
On your booking day, present your completed LL1 form, ID, photos, and proof of address.You will undergo a basic vision test administered at the testing centre using an eye-testing machine. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, bring them along; your licence will reflect a prescription restriction if required.
Step 3: Pay the Booking Fee
Once your paperwork and vision test are verified, pay the non-refundable booking fee at the cashier. Fees vary depending on the province and municipality (typically ranging from R85 to R162).You will receive an official appointment slip confirming your test date and time.
Step 4: Write the K53 Written Examination
On test day, report to the DLTC well before your scheduled time with your appointment slip, original ID, and receipt. The exam is conducted either via computer terminals or as a paper-based test depending on the testing centre.
The test lasts 60 minutes and consists of 68 multiple-choice questions split into three sections:
| Test Section | Total Questions | Minimum Required to Pass |
| Rules of the Road | 28 questions | 22 correct answers |
| Road Traffic Signs & Markings | 28 questions | 23 correct answers |
| Vehicle Controls | 8 questions | 6 correct answers |
Note: You must achieve the minimum passing score in all three categories simultaneously to pass the exam.
Step 5: Licence Issuance
If you pass the test, you will be required to pay the learner’s licence issuing fee (ranging between R33 and R65 depending on the province).Your official Code 2 learner’s licence certificate will be issued to you on the same day or within two working days.
Driving Rules and Legal Restrictions for Learner Drivers
Holding a Code 2 learner’s licence grants you provisional driving privileges subject to strict legal conditions:
- Accompanied Driving:You must always be accompanied by a driver who holds a valid, full driving licence for the same category of vehicle (Code B/EB or higher) sitting in the front passenger seat.
- Passengers: You are permitted to carry passengers in the vehicle, provided you are not driving for financial reward or commercial transport.
- Red “L” Plate: The vehicle should clearly display a red “L” plate on a white background on the rear window or bodywork to alert other road users that a learner driver is operating the vehicle.
- Traffic Laws: All general road traffic laws apply. The blood alcohol limit for a learner driver is strictly 0.02 g per 100 ml (practically zero tolerance).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive alone if I have a Code 2 learner’s licence?
No. You cannot drive alone under any circumstances. South African traffic law requires that a Code 2 learner driver must always be accompanied by a driver who holds a valid driving licence for light motor vehicles or higher.
How long is a Code 2 learner’s licence valid in South Africa?
A Code 2 learner’s licence is valid for 24 months (2 years) from the date of issue. If it expires before you pass your practical driving test, it cannot be renewed; you must re-register and pass the written examination again.
What is the pass mark for the Code 2 K53 learner’s test?
The exam contains 68 multiple-choice questions. To pass, you must score at least 22 out of 28 for Rules of the Road, 23 out of 28 for Road Traffic Signs and Markings, and 6 out of 8 for Vehicle Controls.
Can I get a Code 2 learner’s licence at age 16?
No. The minimum age for a Code 2 learner’s licence is 17 years old.At 16 years old, you are only eligible to apply for a Code 1 learner’s licence for motorcycles with an engine capacity of 125 cc or less.
What vehicles am I allowed to drive with a Code 2 learner’s licence?
A Code 2 learner’s licence allows you to drive light motor vehicles with a tare mass or Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) not exceeding 3,500 kg.This includes standard motor cars, hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, bakkies, and small minibuses.
How much does it cost to get a Code 2 learner’s licence?
Costs depend on your province and local municipality.Typically, the booking fee ranges between R85 and R162, and the licence issuing fee ranges between R33 and R65 upon passing.