The Code B drivers license (previously known as Code 8) is the most common driving license in South Africa. If you're planning to drive a car, bakkie, or light vehicle, this is the license you need. This comprehensive guide explains everything about the Code B license, what you can drive, requirements, costs, and how to get yours.
What is a Code B Drivers License?
A Code B drivers license is South Africa's standard car license that authorizes you to drive light motor vehicles. Since 1998, the old "Code 8" designation was officially replaced by "Code B," though many South Africans still refer to it as a Code 8 license.
The Code B license is issued to drivers aged 18 and older and covers the vast majority of everyday vehicles on South African roads.
What Can You Drive with a Code B License?
✓ You CAN Drive:
- • Passenger cars (sedans, hatchbacks, coupes)
- • SUVs and crossover vehicles
- • Bakkies (pickup trucks)
- • Panel vans and delivery vans
- • Minibuses
- • Goods vehicles
- • Any light motor vehicle with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) up to 3,500 kg
- • Small trailers up to 750 kg GVM
✕ You CANNOT Drive:
- • Motorcycles (requires Code A or A1)
- • Agricultural vehicles
- • Vehicles exceeding 3,500 kg GVM
- • Trailers over 750 kg (requires Code EB)
- • Heavy trucks or buses (requires Code C or higher)
Code B vs Code 8: What's the Difference?
There is NO difference between Code B and Code 8 - they are the same license. The only difference is the name:
- • Code 8 = Old name (used before 1998)
- • Code B = Current official name (used since 1998)
Your license card will display "B" as the code, but it's perfectly normal to hear people still calling it Code 8 in everyday conversation.
Code B Drivers License Requirements
Age Requirements
- • Minimum age: 18 years old
- • Must be 17 years or older to obtain learner's license
Documents Needed
- • Valid South African ID document or passport
- • Proof of residential address (utility bill, bank statement)
- • Eye test certificate from an optometrist
- • Valid learner's license (Code 2)
- • Completed application forms
Testing Requirements
- • Pass the learner's license test (75% or higher)
- • Complete yard test (parallel parking, alley docking, three-point turn)
- • Pass the road test with an examiner
- • Demonstrate proper K53 defensive driving techniques
Code B Drivers License Cost (2025)
Official Government Fees:
Driving School Costs:
How to Get Your Code B License: Step-by-Step
Obtain Your Learner's License
- • Book appointment at nearest Driving License Testing Centre (DLTC)
- • Complete an eye test
- • Study the K53 learner's manual
- • Pass the learner's license test (75% pass rate)
- • Receive your learner's license (valid for 24 months)
Practice Driving
- • Practice with a licensed driver (Code B or higher)
- • Consider professional driving lessons (highly recommended)
- • Practice yard maneuvers: parallel parking, alley docking, three-point turns
- • Log at least 20-30 hours of driving practice
Book Your Driving Test
- • Online booking: Use the eNatis portal (Gauteng residents)
- • Walk-in booking: Visit your nearest DLTC
- • Bring all required documents
- • Book your test vehicle if needed
Take Your Driving Test
- • Yard test first (maneuvers)
- • Road test second (actual driving in traffic)
- • Examiner will assess your K53 compliance
- • Test duration: 45-60 minutes total
Receive Your License Card
- • If you pass, collect your license card in 4-6 weeks
- • Temporary license issued immediately if needed
- • License valid for 5 years
Code B License Test: What to Expect
Yard Test (Pre-Road Test)
The yard test takes place at the testing center and includes:
1. Parallel Parking
- • Park between two poles without touching them
- • Must complete within specific time limit
- • Demonstrate proper mirror checks and observations
2. Alley Docking
- • Reverse into a marked bay
- • Position vehicle correctly without touching markers
- • Show control and precision
3. Three-Point Turn
- • Turn vehicle around in limited space
- • Use proper techniques and observations
- • Complete within marked boundaries
Road Test
Duration: 30-45 minutes covering various road types and traffic conditions
Examiner Checks:
- • K53 defensive driving techniques
- • Mirror and blind spot checks
- • Proper gear selection
- • Following distance
- • Lane discipline
- • Observation at intersections
- • Road signs and rules compliance
⚠️ Automatic vs Manual Transmission
IMPORTANT RESTRICTION:
- ✓Pass on MANUAL = Can drive both manual and automatic
- ✕Pass on AUTOMATIC = Can ONLY drive automatic (restriction on license)
If you take your Code B test in an automatic vehicle, your license will have a restriction code, and you will NOT be allowed to drive manual transmission vehicles. Choose carefully based on your needs.
K53 Defensive Driving Requirements
The K53 system is the testing standard for Code B licenses. Key requirements include:
- • Five-point checks before moving off
- • Mirror checks every 5-8 seconds
- • Blind spot checks before lane changes
- • Proper following distance (2-4 second rule)
- • Smooth gear changes and clutch control
- • Correct road positioning
- • Speed limit compliance
- • Defensive driving attitude
Code B License Renewal
Your Code B drivers license expires every 5 years and must be renewed:
Renewal Process:
- • Visit DLTC 3 months before expiry
- • Bring your ID and current license
- • Complete eye test
- • Pay renewal fee (~R200)
- • Receive new license card in 4-6 weeks
Warning: It is ILLEGAL to drive with an expired license. Penalties include fines and vehicle impoundment.
Upgrading from Code B
If you need to drive heavier vehicles, you can upgrade:
- • Code EB - For towing heavy trailers (caravans, boat trailers)
- • Code C1 - For medium trucks (3,500 kg - 16,000 kg)
- • Code C - For heavy trucks (over 16,000 kg)
- • Code EC - For articulated trucks (truck and trailer combinations)
Each upgrade requires additional testing and a learner's license for that category.
Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)
If you plan to use your Code B license for commercial purposes, you may need a PrDP:
When You Need a PrDP with Code B:
- • Driving taxis or ride-sharing services (Uber, Bolt)
- • Transporting passengers for reward
- • Minibus taxi operations
- • Any vehicle carrying 12+ passengers
Note: Regular Code B license is sufficient for personal use and standard employment where driving is incidental to the job.
Common Code B License Questions
How long does it take to get a Code B license?
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Can I drive a bakkie with Code B?
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Can I drive a minibus with Code B?
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What happens if I fail my Code B test?
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Is Code B the same as Code 08?
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Can I tow a trailer with Code B?
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Tips for Passing Your Code B Test
- 1. Practice extensively - Don't rush to test
- 2. Master yard maneuvers - These cause most failures
- 3. Follow K53 precisely - Examiners are strict about procedures
- 4. Stay calm - Nerves cause mistakes
- 5. Book professional lessons - Trained instructors know what examiners want
- 6. Know your vehicle - Practice in the car you'll test in
- 7. Study road signs - Must recognize all traffic signs
- 8. Do mock tests - Simulate test conditions during practice
- 9. Check mirrors constantly - Examiners watch for this
- 10. Arrive early - Reduce stress on test day
Conclusion
The Code B drivers license (Code 8) is your gateway to driving freedom in South Africa. With proper preparation, professional lessons, and dedicated practice, you'll be ready to pass your test and join millions of licensed drivers on South African roads.
Remember: The Code B license is valid for 5 years, covers all light motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg, and is sufficient for most driving needs. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or taking family road trips, your Code B license has you covered.
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