Code 10 is the old driving licence code. It now corresponds to Code C1, which covers vehicles with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) between 3 500 kg and 16 000 kg, with a minimum age of 18 (Western Cape Government). Code C1 is separate from the PrDP, which you need on top of it to drive for reward.
A PrDP only applies to a vehicle for which you hold a valid driving licence (regulations). You need both the right code and the right PrDP category.
Driver or Vehicle Requirements at a Glance
- A licence code that covers the vehicle (old Code 10 is now C1, 3 500 kg to 16 000 kg GVM)
- A PrDP in the right category (G for goods, P for passengers, D for dangerous goods)
- Minimum ages: 18 (G), 21 (P), 25 (D)
- A medical certified on form MC, not more than 2 months old at application
- A conviction check as part of the application
Licence and Eligibility Requirements
gov.za defines the main codes:
- Code B: GVM not exceeding 3 500 kg
- Code C1: motor vehicle, bus, minibus or goods vehicle with GVM between 3 500 kg and 16 000 kg; apply from 18
- Code C: GVM exceeding 16 000 kg
- Code EC1: articulated heavy vehicle with gross combination mass (GCM) between 3 500 kg and 16 000 kg
The Western Cape page also maps old Code 8 to B and old Code 14 to EC (source). Read the code on your card, not the old number, and that page is undated.
PrDP ages are 18 for goods, 21 for passengers and 25 for dangerous goods (gov.za). Holding a heavy-vehicle code does not by itself give you a passenger PrDP; that category needs age 21 and its own application.
Vehicle, Inspection and Safety Requirements
The regulations require a PrDP for, among others, a goods vehicle with GVM above 3 500 kg, a breakdown vehicle, a bus and vehicles carrying persons for reward (regulation 115). Category G covers part of that list, P a wider part and D all of it, so the category you need depends on the work.
The sources checked do not cover operator cards, driving hours or vehicle roadworthy rules, so this page does not state them. Ask your employer or the licensing authority.
Documents, PrDP or Supporting Evidence
gov.za lists for a PrDP application: ID, driving licence card or passport, your valid licence, a medical certificate not older than two months, proof of postal and residential address, photographs, the fee, and a training-body certificate for dangerous goods. Confirm the exact list with the centre.
Registration or Application Process
Apply at a driving licence testing centre. Confirm that your licence code covers the vehicle first, because the PrDP only attaches to vehicles your licence covers. The sources checked do not describe the steps for upgrading to C1, so ask the centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Code 10 and PDP rules and regulations?
Old Code 10 is now C1 (GVM 3 500 kg to 16 000 kg). A PrDP only applies to vehicles your licence covers, and one is needed for goods vehicles over 3 500 kg GVM and buses, among others (regulations 115 and 116).
What is the difference between the code and the PrDP?
The code sets which vehicles your licence covers; the PrDP category sets the commercial work you may do in them. You need both.
Does a heavy-vehicle licence let me carry passengers?
No. Carrying passengers for reward needs the P category of PrDP, which requires age 21.
How do I upgrade my licence code?
Ask your testing centre. The pages checked do not set out the upgrade steps for C1.
Confirm with your driving licence testing centre or provincial licensing authority. See driving and transport requirements and rideshare driver requirements.