The Code A drivers license is South Africa's full motorcycle license, authorizing you to ride any motorcycle regardless of engine size. Whether you want to ride powerful superbikes, cruisers, touring motorcycles, or adventure bikes, Code A is the license you need. This comprehensive guide covers everything about the Code A license including requirements, costs, what you can ride, and how to obtain your qualification.
What is a Code A Drivers License?
A Code A drivers license is South Africa's unrestricted motorcycle qualification. It allows you to legally operate all motorcycles on public roads, with no limitations on engine capacity, power output, or motorcycle type.
Previously known as "Code 02" or the "full motorcycle license" before the 1998 system change, Code A represents the highest level of motorcycle licensing in South Africa.
Code A vs Code 02: What's the Difference?
There is NO difference - they are the same license:
- • Code 02 = Old name (used before 1998)
- • Code A = Current official name (since 1998)
Your license card will display "A" but many riders and mechanics still refer to it as "Code 02" or simply "bike license." All terms are correct and interchangeable.
What Can You Ride with a Code A License?
✓ ALL Motorcycles:
- • Motorcycles with engines exceeding 125cc
- • Motorcycles 125cc and below (includes Code A1 category)
- • Sport bikes and superbikes (600cc, 1000cc, 1300cc+)
- • Cruisers and choppers
- • Touring motorcycles
- • Adventure bikes and dual-sport
- • Naked bikes and standards
- • Café racers and retro bikes
- • Electric motorcycles (all power ratings)
With or Without:
- • Sidecars
- • Passenger seats
- • Luggage systems
- • Any accessories or modifications
Motor Tricycles:
- • Three-wheeled motorcycles
- • Trikes and reverse trikes
- • Motor quadricycles
NO RESTRICTIONS
- • No engine size limit
- • No power limit
- • No speed limit (beyond road rules)
- • No passenger restrictions
✕ What You CANNOT Ride:
- • Cars or light motor vehicles (need Code B)
- • Trucks or buses (need Code C)
- • You ONLY ride motorcycles and tricycles with Code A
Code A vs Code A1: Key Differences
Code A1 (Small Motorcycle)
- • Motorcycles up to 125cc only
- • Minimum age: 16 (learner), 17 (license)
- • Entry-level riders
- • Scooters, mopeds, small bikes
- • Limited to lower-powered motorcycles
Code A (Full Motorcycle)
- • ALL motorcycles (any engine size)
- • Minimum age: 18 years
- • Experienced riders
- • High-powered bikes allowed
- • No restrictions whatsoever
Recommendation: If you're 18+ and serious about motorcycling, go straight for Code A rather than A1. The cost difference is minimal and Code A gives you unlimited options for upgrading bikes in the future.
Code A Drivers License Requirements
Age Requirements
- • Minimum age: 18 years old
- • Must be 18+ to obtain learner's license for Code A
- • Must be 18+ to take driving test
Prerequisite License
- • You do NOT need Code B (car license) first
- • Code A can be your first and only license
- • No other prerequisites required
Documents Needed
- • Valid South African ID document or passport
- • Proof of residential address
- • Eye test certificate from optometrist or DLTC
- • Code 1 learner's license
- • Completed application forms
- • Photos (check DLTC requirements)
Testing Requirements
- • Pass Code 1 learner's license test (75% or higher)
- • Complete yard test on motorcycle (over 125cc recommended)
- • Pass road test with examiner following
- • Demonstrate K53 defensive riding techniques
- • Show proper motorcycle control and safety awareness
Code A License Cost (2025)
Official Government Fees:
Motorcycle Training Costs:
Safety Gear (Required):
(Including training and safety gear)
How to Get Your Code A License: Step-by-Step
Obtain Code 1 Learner's License
- • Book appointment at DLTC
- • Complete eye test
- • Study motorcycle learner's manual
- • Pass learner's test (75% pass mark)
- • Receive Code 1 learner's license (valid 24 months)
Get Proper Safety Gear
- • DOT/ECE certified helmet
- • Motorcycle jacket with armor
- • Gloves (full finger)
- • Boots (ankle protection)
- • Long pants (denim minimum, riding pants better)
Learn to Ride
Options:
- • Self-taught: Practice in parking lots, start on smaller bikes
- • Motorcycle Training School (Recommended): Professional instruction, structured learning, bikes provided, better test preparation
Practice Riding
- • Minimum 20-30 hours recommended
- • Practice yard maneuvers: figure 8s, emergency stops, U-turns, swerving
- • Build road experience in various conditions
Book Your Driving Test
- • Schedule at DLTC (online or in-person)
- • Test bike must be over 125cc for Code A
- • Bring all required documents
- • Arrive 30 minutes early
Take Your Driving Test
- • Pre-ride motorcycle inspection
- • Yard test (slow maneuvers)
- • Road test (examiner follows in car)
- • Demonstrate safe riding practices
Receive Your License
- • If you pass, collect license card in 4-6 weeks
- • Temporary license issued immediately
- • License valid for 5 years
- • Shows "A" as your code
Code A License Test: What to Expect
Pre-Ride Inspection
You must inspect and report on:
- • Tire condition and pressure
- • Chain tension and lubrication
- • Brake function (front and rear)
- • All lights and indicators
- • Horn and mirrors
- • Fluid levels
- • Throttle and clutch operation
- • Steering head bearings
- • Side stand and center stand
Yard Test
1. Slow Riding/Figure 8
Ride slowly through figure-8 pattern, maintain balance and control, keep feet up
2. Emergency Stop
Accelerate to specified speed, stop quickly when signaled, use both brakes properly, don't lock wheels
3. Swerve/Obstacle Avoidance
Ride toward cones, swerve left or right as directed, maintain control
4. U-Turn
Turn motorcycle around in limited space with smooth execution
Road Test
Duration: 30-45 minutes (examiner follows in car)
Assessed On:
- • Lane positioning
- • Following distance
- • Speed management
- • Observation (head checks, mirrors)
- • Gear selection
- • Braking technique
- • Intersection approach
- • Hazard awareness
- • K53 compliance
- • Defensive riding
Pass Requirements:
- • Score 75% or higher
- • No critical errors
- • Demonstrate safe motorcycle control
- • Follow K53 procedures
Learner's License Rules for Motorcycles
You CAN:
- • Ride motorcycles for practice
- • Ride during daylight hours
- • Practice on public roads
You CANNOT:
- • Carry a passenger (not even instructor)
- • Ride on freeways (some provinces)
- • Ride at night (check local rules)
- • Ride without "L" plates displayed
Important: A motorcycle learner cannot carry passengers under any circumstances, including instructors. This is a key difference from car learner's licenses.
Choosing Your Test Motorcycle
Ideal Test Bikes (250-400cc):
- • Honda CB 300
- • Yamaha MT-03
- • KTM 390 Duke
- • BMW G 310 R
- • Suzuki Inazuma 250
Manageable weight, upright seating, easy controls
Avoid for Testing:
- • Very large/heavy bikes
- • High-powered sportbikes
- • Choppers (limited maneuverability)
- • Tall adventure bikes
Harder to maneuver during yard test
Motorcycle Safety Gear Requirements
Mandatory:
- • Helmet (DOT, ECE, or SABS approved)
- • Must be properly fastened, no cracks, fits correctly
Highly Recommended (Required by most DLTCs):
- • Jacket with armor (back, shoulders, elbows)
- • Gloves (full finger, protective)
- • Boots (ankle protection, non-slip sole)
- • Long pants (denim minimum, riding pants better)
Gear Tips: Buy quality safety gear - it saves lives. Fit is critical. Don't skip gear even in hot weather. Hi-vis colors increase visibility.
Code A License Renewal
Your Code A license expires every 5 years:
Renewal Process:
- • Visit DLTC 3 months before expiry
- • Bring ID and current license
- • Complete eye test
- • Pay renewal fee (R200-R300)
- • New license card in 4-6 weeks
Warning: Riding with expired license = criminal offense. Fines, vehicle impoundment, no insurance coverage.
Common Code A License Questions
Can I get Code A without Code A1?
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Do I need a car license before motorcycle license?
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Can I carry a passenger with Code A?
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What size bike do I need for the Code A test?
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How long does it take to get Code A?
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Is Code A difficult?
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What happens if I drop the bike during the test?
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Tips for Passing Your Code A Test
- 1. Take professional training - Higher pass rates
- 2. Practice yard test extensively - This fails many riders
- 3. Master slow-speed control - Clutch and throttle finesse
- 4. Perfect your emergency stop - Both brakes, don't lock up
- 5. Do shoulder checks constantly - Examiners watch for this
- 6. Stay smooth - Jerky inputs fail tests
- 7. Test on a familiar bike - Practice in the bike you'll test with
- 8. Arrive early - Reduce stress, check bike
- 9. Wear proper gear - Shows seriousness and safety awareness
- 10. Stay calm - Nerves cause mistakes
Common Failure Reasons:
- • Dropping the bike in yard test
- • Not doing shoulder/blind spot checks
- • Poor slow-speed control
- • Incorrect lane positioning
- • Stalling repeatedly
Why Get a Code A License?
Freedom
- • Ride any motorcycle you want
- • Upgrade bikes without restrictions
- • Access to full market
- • No limitations on power or size
Economical
- • Motorcycles use less fuel
- • Cheaper insurance than cars
- • Lower maintenance costs
- • Cheaper parking
Lifestyle
- • Join riding community
- • Motorcycle tours and adventures
- • Track days and sport riding
- • Weekend rides
Practical
- • Quick commuting
- • Easy parking anywhere
- • Maneuver through traffic
- • Fun and exciting
Conclusion
The Code A drivers license is your passport to the complete world of motorcycling in South Africa. Whether you dream of riding powerful superbikes, comfortable cruisers, or adventure touring bikes, Code A gives you unrestricted access to any motorcycle on the road.
With proper training, dedicated practice, and safety-focused riding, you can obtain your Code A license and join the thriving community of South African motorcyclists. The investment in training and gear pays dividends in enjoyment, freedom, and practical transportation.
Remember: Code A allows unlimited motorcycle riding (any engine size), requires you to be 18+, and costs R7,000-R20,000 including training and gear. The license is valid for 5 years and opens doors to exciting riding opportunities.
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