Different Categories of Driving Licences in South Africa
South Africa issues different driving licences based on the type of vehicle an individual intends to operate. Below are the available categories:
- Code A1: Covers motorcycles (with or without a sidecar) with an engine capacity not exceeding 125 cc. Applicants must be at least 17 years old.
- Code A: Allows operation of motorcycles (with or without a sidecar) with an engine exceeding 125 cc. Minimum age requirement is 18 years.
- Code B: Permits driving of motor vehicles, minibuses, buses, and goods vehicles with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of up to 3,500 kg. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Code C1: Covers motor vehicles, buses, minibuses, or goods vehicles with a GVM between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg. Minimum age requirement is 18 years.
- Code C: Applies to heavy motor vehicles, buses, and goods vehicles exceeding 16,000 kg in GVM.
- Code EB: Allows operation of articulated light motor vehicles (vehicles towing trailers) with a gross combination mass not exceeding 3,500 kg. Applicants must be 18 years or older.
- Code EC1: Covers articulated heavy motor vehicles and combinations of vehicles with a tare between 3,500 kg and 16,500 kg, as well as minibuses, midibuses, buses, or goods vehicles with a GVM between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Code EC: Permits driving of articulated heavy motor vehicles or combinations with a GVM exceeding 16,000 kg. Minimum age requirement is 18 years.
Steps to Apply for a Driving Licence
The process of obtaining a driving licence in South Africa is straightforward, provided applicants follow the required steps and submit the necessary documents.
Step 1: Booking the Driving Test
Applicants must visit the nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) to schedule a test date. Gauteng residents can conveniently book online via the NaTIS portal at https://online.natis.gov.za/#/.
Step 2: Required Documents
When applying, individuals must provide the following:
- Valid learner’s licence
- South African Identity Document (ID)
- Four black-and-white passport-sized photographs (confirm exact quantity with the DLTC before obtaining photos)
- Proof of residential address (e.g., utility bill). If the bill is not in the applicant’s name, the bill owner must sign an affidavit confirming residency and attach the utility bill. Informal settlement residents must present a stamped letter from their ward councillor confirming their address.
- Booking fee (varies per location—check with the local licensing office)
Step 3: Completing the Application Form
Applicants must fill out the Application for Driving Licence (DL1) Form, available at any DLTC.
Step 4: Confirmation of Test Date
Upon submission, the applicant receives a receipt, which serves as proof of payment and confirms the scheduled test date and time.
Step 5: Attending the Driving Test
On the scheduled date, the applicant must arrive at the DLTC at the specified time. Before proceeding to the test:
- The learner’s licence and receipt will be verified.
- A qualified examiner will assess the applicant’s driving skills.
- If successful, the applicant will undergo a fingerprint scan and eye test. The eye test can be completed at the DLTC or by a qualified optometrist, in which case the optometrist’s form must be submitted at the DLTC.
Step 6: Issuance of a Temporary Licence
If the applicant passes the driving test, they must pay an issuing fee to receive a temporary driving licence, valid until the official driving licence card is ready for collection.
Collecting Your Driving Licence
Once the driving test is successfully completed, the application for the physical driving licence card is processed. The applicant will receive a notification once the card is ready for collection.
Processing Time
- The permanent driving licence should be ready within four to six weeks from the application date.
- A temporary licence is issued immediately to allow the applicant to drive legally while waiting for the physical card.
Collection Process
- The driving licence card must be collected at the same DLTC where the application was submitted.
- Applicants must bring their identity document and the temporary driving licence when collecting their official card.
Costs Involved
Fees for booking the driving test, issuing the temporary licence, and obtaining the driving licence card vary by location. Applicants should check with their nearest licensing office for updated costs.
Where to Obtain Application Forms
The Application for Driving Licence (DL1) Form is available at any Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) across South Africa.
Who to Contact
For any queries regarding the driving licence application process, contact the nearest Department of Transport office or visit the official NaTIS website for updates.
Check also: How to Book a Drivers Licence Test Online in 2025
Applying for a South African driving licence is a structured process that requires careful preparation, proper documentation, and adherence to testing procedures. Understanding the different licence codes, booking requirements, and collection timelines helps applicants navigate the system smoothly.
By following the outlined steps, individuals can obtain their licences without unnecessary delays and legally operate motor vehicles on the road.
