Code C1 (legacy Code 10) covers vehicles between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg gross vehicle mass: the medium-sized trucks, fire engines, and larger minibuses.
Prerequisites
- Valid Code B or EB driver's licence
- Age 18+
- Medical fitness (most schools include a basic check)
- PrDP (Goods or Passengers) if you're driving commercially. See our PrDP guide
Training overview
Most schools run a 5-day intensive programme:
- Day 1: vehicle familiarisation, controls, pre-trip inspection
- Day 2: yard manoeuvres (reversing, alley docking, coupling)
- Day 3: city driving in the medium truck
- Day 4: highway driving, gear sequencing, incline start
- Day 5: mock K53, feedback session
The Code C1 K53
Same structure as the Code B K53 but for a medium truck:
- Yard: pre-trip inspection, reversing into a bay, incline start, emergency stop
- Road: gear changes at the right speeds, observation, turns, emergency stop on signal
Costs
| Item | Range |
|---|---|
| 5-day training programme | R9,500 – R14,000 |
| K53 test fee | R350 – R400 |
| PrDP (if needed) | R350 + SAPS clearance |
| Learner's test (Code C1) | R250 |
Where to find schools
See our Code C1 school directory for schools in your area.
Frequently asked
- Do I need a Code B (car licence) before getting Code C1?
- Yes. You must have a valid Code B or EB licence first.
- How long does Code C1 training take?
- Most schools offer 5-day intensive programmes. Total time from booking to licence card: 6-10 weeks.
Information is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of May 2026. Road traffic laws, DLTC procedures, and fee schedules can change — verify critical requirements with your DLTC or the RTMC (rtmc.co.za) before your test.