Show up without the right documents and the DLTC turns you away. You lose your slot and the fee if you paid in cash on the day. The checklist below covers every Code B learner's test - for other codes, confirm with your DLTC if there are additional requirements.
The full checklist
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| South African ID or Smart ID card | Original only - no copies |
| 2 identical passport-sized photos | Colour, recent, white background |
| Proof of residence | Utility bill, bank statement or letter - address must match your ID |
| Eye test certificate | From a registered optometrist, dated within 12 months |
| Booking confirmation | Printout or SMS/email from NaTIS or your DLTC |
| Test fee (if not paid online) | R240–R260 depending on province - exact cash preferred |
ID requirements in detail
The DLTC accepts:
- South African green barcoded ID book (original)
- South African Smart ID card (original)
- Valid South African passport (if you're a SA citizen)
- Temporary ID certificate issued by Home Affairs
A certified copy of your ID is not accepted. If your ID is lost or stolen, you need a temporary ID certificate from Home Affairs before you can book.
Foreign nationals: you need a valid foreign passport and a valid visa or permit. Asylum seekers need a Section 22 or Section 24 permit.
Photos
Two identical colour photos, passport size (35 mm × 45 mm). White or off-white background. No hats, sunglasses, or dark glasses. Taken within the last 6 months. Most pharmacies and print shops do these for R30–R70.
Proof of residence
The address must match the address on your ID or be accompanied by an explanation. Accepted documents:
- Municipal utility bill (not older than 3 months)
- Bank statement (not older than 3 months)
- TV licence
- Letter from a municipal councillor or chief (rural areas)
- Letter from a parent/employer (if not in your name)
Eye test certificate
Required for all applicants. It confirms you meet the minimum visual acuity standard for the licence code.
Where to get it:
- Any registered optometrist (cost: R150–R350)
- Approved pharmacies - Clicks and Dischem offer the test at most stores
- Some DLTCs have an on-site optometrist
The certificate must state clearly that you meet the eyesight standard for a motor vehicle licence.
Booking and fees
| Province | Learner's test fee (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Gauteng | R260 |
| Western Cape | R250 |
| KwaZulu-Natal | R245 |
| Eastern Cape | R240 |
| Other provinces | R240–R250 |
Book via the NaTIS portal (online.natis.gov.za), your provincial DoT portal, or in person at your DLTC.
If something goes wrong on the day
- Wrong photos: some DLTCs have a nearby photo booth, others will send you away
- Expired eye test: you'll need to reschedule
- Missing ID: no exceptions - you cannot test without original ID
- Paid online but can't prove it: your NaTIS booking number should pull it up
Once you have everything ready, book your test at a DLTC near you.
Frequently asked
- Do I need an original ID or is a copy fine?
- You need the original South African ID document or a valid Smart ID card. A certified copy is not accepted at the DLTC counter.
- Where do I get the eye test?
- Any registered optometrist, optician, or an approved clinic. Many pharmacies offer the test for R100–R200. Some DLTCs have an on-site optometrist. The certificate must be dated within 12 months of your test.
- What if I don't have proof of residence in my name?
- A letter from a parent, guardian, or employer confirming your residence address - signed and with their ID number - is accepted by most DLTCs. Call your DLTC in advance to confirm.
- Do I pay cash on the day or book online?
- Both options exist. Paying online via NaTIS when you book is easiest. If you pay on the day, take exact cash - many DLTCs don't give change.
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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.