The eye test is a mandatory step before you can write the learner's licence test in South Africa. It's simple, fast, and costs R100–R350 depending on where you go.
What the eye test checks
The DLTC eye test is not a full optometric exam. It checks:
- Visual acuity: Can you read the top rows of a letter chart at the required distance?
- Colour vision: Can you distinguish red, amber, and green (traffic signals)?
- Peripheral vision: Can you see within the minimum field of view?
- Binocular vision: How do your eyes work together?
The practical benchmark: you must be able to read a standard number plate at approximately 22.5 metres in daylight.
Who can perform the eye test
The test must be done by a registered:
- Optometrist
- Ophthalmologist (eye doctor)
- Medical officer at an approved clinic
It cannot be done by a nurse, GP, or DLTC clerk.
Where to get the test (and what it costs)
| Provider | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Clicks or Dischem optometrist | R100–R150 |
| Independent optometrist | R150–R300 |
| DLTC on-site optometrist (where available) | R60–R120 |
| Private ophthalmologist | R300–R500 |
Phone ahead to confirm the optometrist is registered for DLTC eye test purposes and can issue the official form (LL/DL2 or the current DoT form).
The official form
The optometrist must complete and sign the official form that the DLTC requires. Without the form, a receipt or letter from the optometrist won't be accepted. Some optometrists use an older version of the form - the DLTC should still accept it, but confirm with your DLTC if unsure.
If you don't pass the eye test
It depends on why:
- Glasses or contact lenses help: You'll pass with correction. Your licence will be endorsed with a condition: "corrective lenses must be worn." This is common and normal.
- Colour blindness: If you can't distinguish red from green reliably, you may be restricted or refused a licence. Partial colour blindness (difficulty with subtle shades) usually doesn't fail you.
- One eye significantly weaker: The combined visual acuity of both eyes is assessed. Some candidates with one weaker eye still meet the standard.
- Serious visual impairment: If the standard can't be met with or without correction, the licence will be refused. This is uncommon.
When to book the eye test
At least a few days before your learner's test. Don't leave it to the morning of the test. If your chosen DLTC doesn't have on-site testing and you get turned away, you've lost the slot.
The certificate is valid for 12 months, so you can do it well in advance.
See the full documents checklist for everything else you need to bring on test day.
Frequently asked
- Can I get the eye test on the same day as my learner's test?
- Some DLTCs have an optometrist on site, so yes. But don't count on it - book in advance so you have the certificate in hand.
- What if I wear glasses?
- No problem. If you need glasses to drive, the licence will carry a condition requiring you to wear corrective lenses whenever driving. You'll be tested and examined wearing your glasses.
- How long is the eye test certificate valid?
- 12 months from the date of issue. If your test is delayed beyond that, you'll need a new eye test.
- What visual acuity is required?
- You must be able to read a number plate at approximately 22.5 metres in daylight. For a Code B licence, both eyes together must meet minimum acuity standards. If one eye doesn't meet the standard, the other must compensate.
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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.