A motorcycle licence in South Africa comes in two flavours: Code A1 (up to 125cc) and Code A (over 125cc, no upper limit).
Why they're separate
Code A1 is an entry code: cheap to get, limits you to small bikes. Code A is unrestricted. You can get Code A1 first and upgrade later by taking the Code A K53.
The process
- Pass the learner's licence test for the relevant code (same structure as the car learner's: 68 questions, 3 sections)
- Get provisional approval to ride (you can ride on an L-plate with a licenced rider nearby)
- Book the motorcycle K53: yard test (slow-speed manoeuvres, figure-8, emergency stop) and road test
- Pass the K53 → card issued within 6-8 weeks
The motorcycle K53 yard test includes:
- Figure-eight between cones (tests balance at low speed)
- Emergency stop from 30 km/h on a straight
- Slalom through cones
- Slow-speed balancing
What it costs
| Item | Range |
|---|---|
| Learner's licence test | R240 – R250 |
| Motorcycle training (5–8 lessons) | R2,500 – R4,500 |
| K53 test fee | R320 |
| Motorcycle gear (helmet and gloves are mandatory) | R1,500 – R5,000 |
Gear requirements
You must wear an approved helmet for both training and the test. The examiner will refuse to test you without one.
Find a school
Use our motorcycle school directory. Filter by Code A or A1 in your province.
Frequently asked
- Can I ride any motorcycle with a Code A1?
- Code A1 limits you to motorcycles up to 125cc engine capacity. For anything bigger, you need Code A.
- Do I need to take a separate K53 for a motorcycle?
- Yes. The motorcycle K53 has its own yard and road test procedure, it is not the same as the Code B car test.
Just passed your learner's?
Once you pass your driver's test you'll need insurance before you drive off the lot. Naked Insurance gives new drivers a live quote in under two minutes.
Get a quote from Naked Insurance →Affiliate link -- we earn a small commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.
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.