Module 1: Introduction to Code B Licensing

Getting your driver’s licence is one of the biggest steps toward independence. In South Africa, a Code B licence allows you to legally drive a light motor vehicle, this includes most cars and small bakkies that South Africans use daily for work, transport, or family needs.

Whether you’re driving to work, delivering goods, or just helping at home, understanding how Code B licensing works helps you start your journey with confidence.

1. What Does Code B Cover?

A Code B licence allows you to drive:

• Any light motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) under 3,500 kg (for example, sedans, hatchbacks, small SUVs, and bakkies).

• Vehicles designed to carry no more than 12 passengers, excluding the driver.

• A light trailer with a GVM not exceeding 750 kg.

Examples of Code B Vehicles:

• Toyota Corolla, VW Polo, Ford Fiesta, Nissan NP200, Toyota Quantum (light model)

• Small delivery bakkies used by spaza shops, plumbers, or courier drivers

• Uber, Bolt, and private vehicles used for transport services

Tip: If you plan to drive anything heavier (like a truck), you’ll need to upgrade later to Code C1 or Code C.

2. Who Can Apply for a Code B Licence?

To apply for a Code B learner’s licence in South Africa, you must:

• Be 17 years or older on the day of booking.

• Have a valid South African ID document or Smart ID card.

• Be mentally and physically fit to drive safely.

Once you’ve passed your learner’s test, you can practice driving only under supervision from a licensed driver.

If you’re applying for the full driving licence (after passing your road test), you must:

• Already hold a valid Code B learner’s license.

• Use a roadworthy vehicle for the test (you may use your own or a driving school car).

Tip: Many learners in South Africa start learning through driving schools because instructors’ cars have dual pedals, which makes practicing safer and easier,  especially around busy township or city roads.

3. Documents Needed for Booking

When booking for your learner’s licence or driving test, you’ll need to bring specific documents. Missing even one can delay your application.

For a Learner’s Licence Booking:

Bring the following to your nearest Driving License Testing Centre (DLTC):

• Original South African ID document or Smart ID card

• Two recent ID photos (colour or black and white)

• Proof of residential address (e.g., municipal bill or bank statement — if not in your name, bring an affidavit from the homeowner)

• Booking fee (usually around R108–R135, depending on the province)

• Eye test certificate (you can do this at the DLTC or bring one from an optometrist)

Tip: Arrive early,  many South African centres, especially in large metros like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban, open around 07:45 AM, and queues form quickly.

For the Driving Test Booking:

When applying to do your road test, you must bring:

• Your learner’s license card (still valid — it expires after 24 months)

• ID document or Smart ID

• Two new ID photos

• Booking fee (typically around R220–R250)

• A roadworthy vehicle (manual or automatic, depending on what licence you want)

• Proof of payment and booking receipt

Important: If you test in an automatic car, your Code B licence will be marked “Automatic only”, which means you cannot legally drive manual cars unless you re-test in a manual vehicle later.

4. Summary

• Licence Type: Code B = Light motor vehicles (under 3,500 kg)

• Minimum Age: 17 years old

• Documents Required: ID, 2 ID photos, proof of address, booking fee

• Licence Duration: Learner’s = 24 months validity

• Vehicle Restriction: Automatic licence holders may not drive manual cars