Different Vehicle Licenses Available in South Africa

In South Africa, obtaining the correct vehicle license is essential for legally operating various types of vehicles. Each license type caters to specific vehicle categories and driving purposes. Understanding the different vehicle licenses available can help you determine which one you need. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the different vehicle licenses available in South Africa.

1. Learner’s License (Code 1, 2, 3)

Before you can obtain a full driver’s license, you must first get a learner’s license. This allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed driver. The learner’s license is divided into three codes:

• Code 1: For motorcycles with or without a sidecar, and for motor tricycles and quadricycles.

• Code 2: For light motor vehicles, including cars and small trucks.

• Code 3: For heavy motor vehicles, including buses and large trucks.

2. Motorcycle License (Code A, A1)

Motorcycle licenses are classified based on the engine capacity of the motorcycle:

• Code A1: For motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125cc. You can obtain this license from the age of 17.

• Code A: For motorcycles with an engine capacity exceeding 125cc. You can obtain this license from the age of 18.

3. Light Motor Vehicle License (Code B, EB, 8)

Light motor vehicle licenses are for driving standard passenger cars and light commercial vehicles:

• Code 8: An older code for light motor vehicles, similar to the current Code B.

• Code B: Allows you to drive a light motor vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of up to 3,500 kg. This includes standard cars and small trucks.

• Code EB: Allows you to drive a light motor vehicle with a GVM of up to 3,500 kg, as well as tow a trailer with a GVM exceeding 750 kg.

4. Heavy Motor Vehicle License (Code C, C1, EC, EC1, 10, 14)

For those who need to drive larger vehicles, such as buses and trucks, the following codes apply:

• Code 10: An older code for heavy motor vehicles, similar to the current Code C1.

• Code 14: An older code for heavy motor vehicles, similar to the current Code EC.

• Code C1: Allows you to drive a heavy motor vehicle with a GVM between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg. You can obtain this license from the age of 18.

• Code C: Allows you to drive a heavy motor vehicle with a GVM exceeding 16,000 kg. You can obtain this license from the age of 18.

• Code EC1: Allows you to drive a heavy motor vehicle with a GVM between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg, and tow a trailer with a GVM exceeding 750 kg.

• Code EC: Allows you to drive a heavy motor vehicle with a GVM exceeding 16,000 kg, and tow a trailer with a GVM exceeding 750 kg.

5. Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)

A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is required for those who drive for a living. This includes taxi drivers, truck drivers, bus drivers, and anyone who transports goods or passengers for payment. The PrDP is an additional permit that must be held alongside the relevant driver’s license. It ensures that the driver meets higher safety and medical standards. The types of PrDP are:

• Category P: For passengers, required for driving taxis and buses.

• Category G: For goods, required for driving trucks and delivery vehicles.

• Category D: For dangerous goods, required for transporting hazardous materials.

6. Special Vehicle Licenses

There are also licenses for special types of vehicles used in specific industries or circumstances:

• Code 2L: For driving agricultural vehicles such as tractors and harvesters.

• Code 4: For operating construction vehicles like bulldozers and cranes.

Conclusion

Understanding the different vehicle licenses available in South Africa is crucial for ensuring that you are legally qualified to drive the vehicle you intend to use. Whether you’re looking to drive a motorcycle, a passenger car, or a heavy truck, there is a specific license that you will need to obtain. Always ensure you meet the necessary requirements and complete the appropriate training to qualify for your desired license.

At iDriving School, we specialize in training for the Code 8 license, which allows you to drive light motor vehicles. Our certified instructors are here to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to pass your driving test and operate your vehicle safely. Contact us today to learn more about our driving courses and how we can assist you in obtaining your South African driver’s license.

For more information or to book a lesson, visit our website or contact our office. We’re here to help you every step of the way!