What is tested in the K53 learner's licence test?
South Africa's approved learner's licence test covers three subjects. The test checks whether you understand traffic law, can recognise road traffic signs and know how to use a vehicle's controls.
- 1. Rules of the RoadSpeed limits, right of way, stopping, overtaking and safe road use.
- 2. Road Traffic SignsRegulatory, warning and guidance signs, signals and road markings.
- 3. Vehicle ControlsPedals, steering, brakes, switches, instruments and warning lights.
K53 test questions and pass marks
The test contains 64 questions. Each section has its own minimum score.
| Test section | Questions | Minimum correct |
|---|---|---|
| Rules of the Road | 28 | 22 out of 28 |
| Road Traffic Signs | 28 | 23 out of 28 |
| Vehicle Controls | 8 | 6 out of 8 |
You must pass all three sections. Failing one section means failing the test.
Code 1, Code 2 and Code 3 learner's licences
Choose the learner's licence category that matches the vehicle you plan to drive. Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) means the vehicle's maximum permitted mass when fully loaded.
Code 1 — motorcycles
Minimum age 16 for a motorcycle of 125 cc or less, and 18 for a motorcycle over 125 cc.
Code 2 — light motor vehicles
Minimum age 17. Covers a motor vehicle, minibus, bus or goods vehicle with a GVM not exceeding 3,500 kg.
Code 3 — heavy motor vehicles
Minimum age 18. Covers motor vehicles with a GVM exceeding 3,500 kg.
About Code 8, Code 10 and Code 14: these are familiar market terms for driving licence classes. People often use them when searching for learner material. The official learner's licence categories shown during application are Code 1, Code 2 and Code 3, so confirm the correct category with your DLTC.
A learner's licence is valid for 24 months and cannot be extended.
How to book your learner's licence test
- Choose your category. Check that you meet the minimum age for Code 1, 2 or 3.
- Book with a DLTC. Gauteng residents should apply through the official eNaTIS online portal. In other areas, online availability varies, so confirm with your local Driving Licence Testing Centre.
- Prepare your documents. Take your ID, the required ID photographs, proof of postal and residential address, the booking fee and a completed LL1 application form. Confirm the number of photos with your DLTC.
- Complete the eye test. The DLTC can test your eyesight, or you may submit the required form completed by a qualified optometrist.
- Write the test. Bring your booking receipt and ID on the test date.
- Pay the issue fee after passing. Booking and issue fees vary by DLTC or municipality; contact the centre for the current amount.
Where to study next
- Take K53 practice tests online
- Read K53 road signs and rules notes
- Watch K53 study videos
- View SK Driving lesson and study packages
If you are ready to prepare with the complete platform, view our SK Driving access packages.
K53 study guide FAQs
- Where can I get free K53 learner's licence study material in South Africa?
- SK Driving provides this free online K53 study guide, an original downloadable summary PDF and interactive practice tests covering Rules of the Road, Road Traffic Signs and Vehicle Controls.
- What are the pass marks for the K53 learner's licence test?
- You must get at least 22 out of 28 for Rules of the Road, 23 out of 28 for Road Traffic Signs and 6 out of 8 for Vehicle Controls. You must pass all three sections.
- How many questions are in the K53 learner's licence test?
- The approved South African learner's licence test has 64 questions: 28 on Rules of the Road, 28 on Road Traffic Signs and 8 on Vehicle Controls.
- How long is a South African learner's licence valid?
- A South African learner's licence is valid for 24 months from its issue date and cannot be extended.
Official sources and review date
This guide was reviewed on 16 July 2026. Requirements can change, so confirm local fees and photo requirements with your DLTC.