To book a learner’s licence test, go to your nearest driving licence testing centre (DLTC), choose a test date and confirm the booking. Bring your ID, two identical black-and-white ID photographs, proof of postal and residential address and the booking fee. The official guide is the gov.za learner’s licence page.
The Gauteng position differs: gov.za says Gauteng residents should apply (book) online at online.natis.gov.za. Whether that system is available outside Gauteng is not confirmed by the official pages we checked, so book at your local DLTC elsewhere.
Driver or Vehicle Requirements at a Glance
- Be old enough for the code: 16 for a Code 1 motorcycle of 125cc or less, 18 for a Code 1 motorcycle over 125cc, 17 for Code 2 (including a minibus, bus or goods vehicle up to 3,500 kg GVM) and 18 for Code 3 (over 3,500 kg GVM)
- A valid ID
- Two identical black-and-white ID photographs
- Proof of postal and residential address
- Form LL1, completed at the DLTC
- A medical certificate (form MC) if you are 65 or older
- The booking fee, which is set provincially and not at one national rate
Licence and Eligibility Requirements
The code you book for decides the minimum age, measured on the date of the test. The ages above come from the gov.za learner’s licence page. Book for the code that covers the vehicle you intend to learn on; a Code 3 learner’s licence, for example, is for vehicles over 3,500 kg GVM.
A learner’s licence is valid for 24 months and cannot be extended, so time your booking so you can complete your driving licence test inside that period.
If you cannot read or write, the City of Cape Town says you may apply for an oral test, supported by a sworn SAPS affidavit and proof of disability or learning difficulty. Ask your own DLTC whether the same applies there.
Vehicle, Inspection and Safety Requirements
You must also pass an eye test, done at the testing centre, or by a qualified optometrist who completes the form you then hand in at the centre.
On the day, the Western Cape Government advises arriving 15 minutes early with your appointment sheet, ID and the issue fee. Other provinces may set different rules, so check your booking confirmation.
Documents, PrDP or Supporting Evidence
- Your ID
- Two identical black-and-white ID photographs
- Proof of postal and residential address, such as a utility account
- An affidavit from the account holder if the account is not in your name
- A letter stamped by the ward councillor if you live in an informal settlement
- A medical certificate (form MC) if you are 65 or older
- Your booking receipt on test day
Registration or Application Process
The national position, per the gov.za learner’s licence page, is simple:
- Go to the nearest DLTC and book a test date, confirming the booking and paying the booking fee. In Gauteng, apply online at online.natis.gov.za.
- Complete form LL1 at the DLTC and do the eye test.
- On test day, bring your booking receipt and ID.
- If you pass, pay the issue fee; the licence is issued the same day.
Fees depend on the province. The Western Cape Government and the City of Cape Town list an application fee of R68 and an issue fee of R33 (see the Western Cape page and the City of Cape Town page), but these are not national figures and can change. Ask your own DLTC for the current tariff.
An older City of Ekurhuleni notice on online pre-booking says you register a profile, choose a DLTC, and pay at that station within three days of the pre-booking. Treat that as a guide only and check the current rules when you book.
Never pay anyone for a booking or a pass. Booking goes through the official process at the prescribed fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a learner’s licence test?
Go to your nearest DLTC, book a test date and confirm the booking. Gauteng residents are directed to book online at online.natis.gov.za. Learners licence booking and learners license booking are the same process.
What do I need to bring when I book?
Your ID, two identical black-and-white ID photographs, proof of postal and residential address and the booking fee. Applicants aged 65 or older also need a medical certificate.
Can I cancel or move my booking?
In the Western Cape, cancellation is accepted only for sickness (with a medical certificate), a funeral (with a death certificate) or an exam (with your timetable), and the payment is not refunded. Ask your DLTC what applies in your area.
How much does the booking cost?
It varies by province. Western Cape and Cape Town list R68 plus a R33 issue fee, but no single national fee was found. Confirm with your local licensing office.
How long is a learner’s licence valid?
24 months, and it cannot be extended.
Can I pay someone to get a booking?
No. Booking is done through the official process at the prescribed fee.
Confirm current fees and booking arrangements with your local DLTC or licensing authority. See driving and transport requirements and rideshare driver requirements if you plan to drive for a living.