The purpose of a Learner’s License test is to evaluate your knowledge and understanding of road signs, markings, traffic signals, and vehicle controls and how to read these. A Learner’s License serves as proof that you have basic knowledge of a motor vehicle and understand the rules of the road and allows you to drive a vehicle when supervised by a licensed driver i.e. someone who holds a valid Driver’s License for the particular type of vehicle you are driving. To be able to apply for a Driver’s License you must be in possession of a valid Learner’s License. It is not possible to apply for a Driver’s License without a valid Learner’s License.
How old must I be to get a Learner’s License?
Age requirements vary for the different types of Learner Licenses. For a Code 1 Learner’s License you have to be 16 years or older on the date that you take the test. For a Code 2 Learner’s License you have to be 17 years or older on the date that you take the test and for a Code 3 Learner’s License you have to be 18 years or older on the date that you take the test.
What are the different Codes of Learner’s License you get?
Learner’s Licenses are divided into categories according to particular vehicle sizes. Here is a breakdown of the Learner’s License Categories:
- A Code 1 Learner’s License is for a motorcycle (with or without a sidecar), a tricycle and a quadricycle. To apply for a Code 1 Learner’s License where the engine capacity of the cycle is 125 cc or smaller, you have to be 16 years or older on the date of the test and where the engine capacity of the cycle exceeds 125 cc you have to be 18 years or older on the date of the test.
- A Code 2 Learner’s License is for a car, minibus, bus or goods vehicle where the gross vehicle mass does not exceed 3500kg. To apply for a Code 2 Learner’s License you have to be 17 years or older on the date of the test.
- A Code 3 Learner’s License is for any vehicle where the gross vehicle mass exceeds 3500kg. To apply for a Code 3 Learner’s License you have to be 18 years or older on the date of the test.
Where can I book for a Learner’s License test?
At last, you’re old enough and can now book to take your Learner’s License test. You have two options to choose from. You can book your Learner’s License test Online via the eNatis platform or in person at your nearest DLTC or Driver’s License Testing Centre.
Booking online via eNatis:
Visit the eNaTIS website via this link https://online.natis.gov.za/#/ and click “Book Now” in the “Book Now For Learner’s License” block. Complete the application form and click “Submit” to complete the process. The system will automatically generate an appointment date after you’ve paid the application fee. You must confirm and pay for your booking within 3 days of making the booking on the website. NatTIS online booking slots are allocated within 30 days of registration. You will receive an email or SMS notification indicating the date and time of your reserved slot. You should accept the allocated slot within 24 hours of being notified, otherwise the system will queue you for the next available slot.
Booking at a Driver’s License Testing Centre (DTLC):
Simply go to your nearest DLTC with your ID, the required photocopies, ID photos and booking fee relevant to your province to book and confirm a test date to take your Learner’s License test.
What do I need to make a booking and to do my Learner’s License test?
Whether you book online or at the DLTC, here is a list of you’ll need to make your booking and take with you when go to the DLTC to take your test:
- Your ID and 2 photocopies
- Two black & white or colour ID photographs (35 x 45mm) – Confirm with your DLTC how many photos they will require beforehand.
- The booking fee relevant to your province.
- Proof of Residence (not older than 3 months) – This can be a utility bill or bank statement. If the proof of residence is not in your name, it must be accompanied by an affidavit made by the owner stating that you reside at the said address. Should you live in an informal settlement, a letter with an official stamp from your ward councillor stating your address, will suffice.
- You will be given a LL1 form at the DLTC to complete. The form can also be downloaded from the NaTIS website here.
- You will be required to do an eye test at the DLTC. Alternatively you can have an eye test performed by a qualified optometrist, at your own cost, and submit the results form at the DLTC
- On the day of your rest, make sure to have your ID and booking receipt with you.
- Should you pass the test, your Learner’s License will be issued on the same day and you will be required to pay the issue fee relevant to your province.
Can I cancel my learner’s test appointment date?
A Learner’s License test appointment can only be cancelled in the following instances:
- If you are attending a funeral in which case you are to provide a death certificate of the deceased;
- If you are sick in which case you are to provide a doctor’s certificate; and
- If you are writing an exam, in which case you are to provide a timetable.
Should you cancel your Learner’s License test booking on eNatis, you will receive a refund. You are also advised to cancel your appointment with the DLTC directly. Should you experience any problems when trying to cancel a booking you can contact NaTIS by calling 0861 400 800 or sending an email to on***********@rt**.za.
What must I study to pass my Learner’s License Test?
The K53 Guide is what you’ll need to study to pass your Learner’s License test and ultimately help you prepare for your Driver’s License. You can find the latest publication of the K53 Guide from various retailers and bookstores. There are also some downloadable versions, but just make sure that it is legit, relevant and up to date.
How long does it take to get my Learner’s License and for how long is it valid?
As soon as you complete your Learner’s License test it is checked and, should you pass, your Learner’s License is issued on the same day after paying the issuing fee.
A Learner’s License is valid for 24 months and cannot be extended. Should your Learner’s License expire, become lost or is stolen, you can apply for a renewal of your Learner’s License.
How much does it cost to get a Learner’s License?
Learner’s License booking and issuing fees vary from one province to the next. Contact your nearest DLTC to confirm the fees relevant to your area.
A final word of advice when doing your Learner’s License test.
First and foremost, study and be prepared. Source a recent publication of the K53 Learner Book which will contain all the material you’ll be tested on. It may also be a good idea to see if you can get your hands on some past papers, to give you an idea of how questions may be asked. Study in advance so that you are well prepared, after all, the sooner you get your Learner’s License, the sooner you can apply for your Driver’s License. Remain calm on the day of your test so that you will remember everything that you have learned. Focus and read all questions carefully.
Now go and book your Learner’s License test. In no time you’ll be able to freely roam the streets, under supervision of course, and be on your way to become a responsible user of the road.
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