A learner’s licence is the first step towards a driving licence. You apply at a Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC), pass the learner’s test and, if you pass and pay the issue fee, the licence is issued the same day. A learner’s licence is valid for 24 months and cannot be extended.
These are the learners licence requirements for South Africa as published by the gov.za learner’s licence page and the Western Cape Government. Fees and some details differ between provinces and municipalities, so confirm them with your local licensing office before you go.
Business Requirements at a Glance
What you need depends on the code you are applying for. The minimum age is measured on the date of the test.
- Code 1 (motorcycles): 16 years or older if the engine does not exceed 125 cc, and 18 if it exceeds 125 cc
- Code 2 (vehicles up to 3,500 kg gross vehicle mass, including minibuses, buses and goods vehicles): 17 years or older
- Code 3 (vehicles over 3,500 kg gross vehicle mass): 18 years or older
- Identity document, photographs, proof of address and the application form (see below)
- An eye test, done at the testing centre or by an optometrist
- Payment of the booking fee, and the issue fee once you pass
The Western Cape page uses the newer code names: A1 (up to 125 cc, age 16), A (over 125 cc, age 18) and B (passenger cars, minibuses and light goods vehicles up to 3,500 kg, age 18). The national page gives 17 for code 2, so ask your DLTC which minimum age applies to you before you book.
Registration and Legal Requirements
Learner’s licences are issued under the National Road Traffic Act 93 of 1996 at DLTCs, which are run by provincial and municipal licensing authorities.
The test covers road signs, vehicle controls and the rules of the road, so study all three. Neither official page states the test structure or pass marks, so ask your DLTC how the test is marked when you book.
To apply for a learner’s licence, follow these steps:
- Book a test at your DLTC. In Gauteng you can book online through eNaTIS.
- Take your documents (below) and complete form LL1.
- Do the eye test at the centre or bring results from an optometrist.
- Write the test and, if you pass, pay the issue fee to receive the licence on the same day.
Documents and Ownership Information Required
The national page lists the following. Your DLTC can confirm the exact list, including how many photographs it wants.
- Your ID
- Two identical black-and-white photographs (confirm the number with your DLTC)
- Proof of postal and residential address; if the bill is not in your name, an owner’s affidavit
- Completed form LL1, the learners licence form, available at any DLTC and on eNaTIS
- Form MC as well if you are 65 or older
- Proof of payment of the booking fee
In the Western Cape the photographs must be 35 mm x 45 mm, proof of address must be not older than three months, and applicants under 18 need an adult’s affidavit confirming the address.
Tax, Licence and Compliance Requirements
How long does a learner’s licence last? 24 months, and it cannot be extended. Plan your driving licence test with that expiry date in mind.
Learners licence cost. There is no single national fee. The national page tells you to ask your local licensing office. In the Western Cape the test or application fee is R68 and the issue fee after you pass is R33 (as at 10 October 2026, and subject to change).
Pay only official fees at the centre and keep your receipt. Do not pay anyone who promises to arrange a licence or guarantee a pass.
Process, Deadlines and Ongoing Obligations
Book your test early, collect the documents above, and study road signs, vehicle controls and the rules of the road. If you pass and pay the issue fee, the licence is issued on the day.
The 24-month validity is the deadline that matters. Because it cannot be extended, book your driving licence test in good time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a learner’s licence last?
24 months. It cannot be extended.
How much does a learner’s licence cost?
Fees are set locally. In the Western Cape you pay R68 for the test or application and R33 to have the licence issued after you pass. In other areas, ask your local licensing office.
How old do you have to be to get a learner’s licence?
A motorcycle up to 125 cc: 16. A larger motorcycle or a vehicle over 3,500 kg: 18. Code 2 vehicles up to 3,500 kg: 17 according to the national page, while the Western Cape page lists 18 for code B cars. Confirm with your DLTC.
Which form do I need?
Form LL1, available at any DLTC and on eNaTIS. If you are 65 or older you also need form MC.
Do I need an eye test?
Yes. You can do it at the testing centre or at an optometrist.
Do I need matric?
The official pages list no educational requirement. You need to meet the minimum age for your code and pass the test.
Confirm current requirements, fees and booking with your Driving Licence Testing Centre or local licensing authority. See company registration requirements and browse all business and compliance requirements.