Learners License Cost in South Africa: Fees by Province, Booking & Hidden Costs

Getting your learner’s license in South Africa costs between R95 and R200 in 2025, depending on your province. This guide covers exact fees, how to book your test, hidden costs (like eye tests), and province-specific pricing.

Whether you’re applying for a standard Code 8 license or a heavy vehicle Code 14, here’s what you need to budget.

Learners License Cost in South Africa: 2025 Fee Guide

Costs vary widely across provinces. Below are the latest 2025 fees confirmed by the Department of Transport:

Always confirm with your local DLTC—fees may change due to municipal adjustments.

Booking Fee vs. Issuing Fee: What’s the Difference?

• Booking Fee: Paid to reserve your learner’s test slot (R85-R170).
• Issuing Fee: Paid after passing the test to print your license (R35-R100).

It’s advisable to call your local Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) beforehand to confirm the exact fees, as costs can change without prior notice. Check out our guide here for further details on how to apply for a learner's license.

Make sure you carry enough cash, as some centres may experience technical issues with card machines, and you don't want to face delays.

Code 14 Learners License Cost & Requirements

A Code 14 learners license (for heavy trucks) costs 20-30% more than standard fees. For example:

• Gauteng: R220 booking fee + R120 issuing fee = R340 total.
• Requirements: Medical certificate, ID, and proof of address.

Additional Costs & Hidden Fees

When planning your budget, it's essential to account for some additional fees and factors:

• Study Materials: Instead of buying the K53 manual (R100), download our free K53 Learners License App for mock tests, road sign quizzes, and official study material. Save money and practice anytime!

• Eye Tests: A vision test is mandatory for all applicants. You can have this test done at the testing centre, but many people choose to get it from a registered optometrist beforehand to save time.
• Temporary Licence: While waiting for your permanent driver’s licence, you may need to apply for a temporary licence. This costs around R100 and is valid for six months.
• Renewal Fees: A driver’s licence in South Africa is valid for 5 years, and you should begin the renewal process well before its expiration. The renewal fee is typically around R250.

We also have a complete guide on the Professional Driving Permit (PDP) if you're considering upgrading to commercial driving.

Conclusion

The cost of getting a driver’s licence in South Africa varies depending on your location and the specific steps involved. To ensure a smooth process, it's always wise to contact your local testing centre to confirm the fees and avoid unexpected expenses.

Additionally, having some extra cash on hand is a good idea, given the potential for technical issues with payment systems at the testing centres.