The Code C1 drivers license, formerly known as Code 10, is South Africa's medium truck license. If you want to drive delivery trucks, minibus taxis, or commercial vehicles between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg, this is the license you need. This comprehensive guide covers everything about the Code C1 license, including requirements, costs, vehicles covered, and the application process.
What is a Code C1 Drivers License?
A Code C1 drivers license authorizes you to operate medium-weight commercial vehicles in South Africa. This license category was previously called "Code 10" before the system changed in 1998 to align with European standards.
The Code C1 license bridges the gap between light vehicles (Code B) and heavy trucks (Code C), making it essential for drivers in delivery, logistics, and public transport sectors.
Code C1 vs Code 10: What's the Difference?
There is NO difference - Code C1 and Code 10 are the same license:
- • Code 10 = Old name (used before 1998)
- • Code C1 = Current official name (used since 1998)
Your license card will show "C1" but many people, employers, and job ads still refer to it as a "Code 10 license." Both terms are correct and interchangeable.
Important: If you held an old Code 10 license, you can drive vehicles under both Code C1 and certain Code C categories.
What Can You Drive with a Code C1 License?
✓ You CAN Drive:
Commercial Vehicles:
- • Medium trucks weighing between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg GVM
- • Delivery trucks and freight vehicles
- • Box trucks and panel trucks
- • Refrigerated trucks (reefers)
- • Tow trucks and breakdown vehicles
Passenger Vehicles:
- • Minibus taxis
- • Small buses
- • Shuttle buses
- • Staff transport vehicles
Specialized Vehicles:
- • Ambulances
- • Fire-fighting vehicles (within weight limit)
- • Municipal service vehicles
- • Refuse collection trucks
- • Mobile workshops
Trailers:
- • Light trailers up to 750 kg GVM
✕ You CANNOT Drive:
- • Heavy trucks over 16,000 kg (need Code C)
- • Articulated trucks with trailers (need Code EC or EC1)
- • Trailers over 750 kg (need Code EC1)
- • Motorcycles (need Code A)
Code C1 Drivers License Requirements
Age Requirements
- • Minimum age: 18 years old
Prerequisite License
- • You do NOT need a Code B license first
- • You can apply directly for Code C1
- • Must have Code 3 learner's license
Documents Needed
- • Valid South African ID document or passport
- • Proof of residential address
- • Eye test certificate (optometrist or DLTC)
- • Medical certificate of fitness
- • Code 3 learner's license
- • Completed application forms (DL1)
Testing Requirements
- • Pass Code 3 learner's license test
- • Complete yard test in a medium truck
- • Pass road test with examiner
- • Demonstrate K53 defensive driving for heavy vehicles
- • Show proper vehicle control and load awareness
Code C1 License Cost (2025)
Official Government Fees:
Driving School Costs:
Additional Costs:
How to Get Your Code C1 License: Step-by-Step
Obtain Code 3 Learner's License
- • Book appointment at DLTC
- • Complete eye test
- • Study for heavy vehicle learner's test
- • Pass learner's test (must score 75% or higher)
- • Receive Code 3 learner's license (valid 24 months)
Enroll in Training
- • Choose accredited driving school with Code C1 training
- • Complete theoretical training on vehicle maintenance, load securing, and defensive driving
- • Complete practical training (minimum 10-15 hours recommended)
Practice Driving
- • Practice with licensed instructor in medium truck
- • Master yard maneuvers: straight line reversing, alley docking, parallel parking, three-point turns
- • Practice on various road types
- • Learn load management (where applicable)
Book Your Driving Test
- • Schedule test at DLTC
- • Ensure you have a suitable test vehicle (3,500-16,000 kg)
- • Bring all required documents
- • Arrive early on test day
Complete Driving Test
- • Pre-trip vehicle inspection
- • Yard test (maneuvers)
- • Road test (30-45 minutes)
- • Demonstrate safe driving with larger vehicle
Receive Your License
- • License card ready in 4-6 weeks
- • Temporary license issued if needed
- • Valid for 5 years
Apply for PrDP (if needed)
- • Required for commercial operations
- • Apply at DLTC with all documents
- • Includes criminal record check
- • Valid for 24 months
Code C1 License Test: What to Expect
Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection
Before driving, you must inspect and report on:
- • Tire condition and pressure
- • Lights and indicators
- • Mirrors and windscreen
- • Brakes (service and parking)
- • Steering and suspension
- • Fluid levels (oil, water, brake fluid)
- • Load security (if applicable)
Yard Test
1. Straight Line Reversing
Reverse accurately between markers without deviation
2. Alley Docking
Reverse into a bay without touching markers
3. Parallel Parking
Park larger vehicle between markers with precision
4. Three-Point Turn
Turn vehicle in limited space with proper control
All maneuvers must be completed without hitting markers, with proper mirror checks and vehicle control.
Road Test
Duration: 30-45 minutes
Examiner Checks:
- • Driving in various traffic conditions
- • Uphill and downhill driving
- • Gear selection for larger vehicle
- • Following distance (longer for trucks)
- • Lane discipline
- • Intersection navigation
- • Emergency stops
- • Mirror and blind spot checks
- • K53 compliance throughout
Pass Requirements:
- • Maximum demerit points: 75% score required
- • No critical errors (running red lights, dangerous driving)
- • Proper K53 compliance throughout
Code C1 Learner's License Test
The Code 3 learner's test covers:
- • Heavy vehicle rules and regulations
- • Road signs and traffic signals
- • Vehicle controls and instruments
- • Load limits and weight distribution
- • Safe following distances for trucks
- • Stopping distances for heavier vehicles
- • Hazard perception
- • Vehicle dimensions and clearances
Test Format:
- • Multiple choice questions
- • Computer-based or written
- • Pass mark: 75% (typically 60 questions, need 45+ correct)
- • Can retake after 7 days if you fail
Study Resources:
- • K53 Learner's Manual (Heavy Vehicle Section)
- • Online practice tests
- • Driving school materials
- • Government learner's booklets
Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) for Code C1
If you drive a Code C1 vehicle commercially, you MUST have a PrDP.
When PrDP is Required:
- • Goods vehicles over 3,500 kg for commercial use
- • Breakdown vehicles
- • Minibus taxis
- • Any bus or coach
- • Transporting passengers for reward
- • Delivery and logistics work
PrDP Requirements:
- • Valid Code C1 license
- • Medical certificate (not older than 2 months)
- • Police clearance certificate
- • No criminal record for driving offenses (past 5 years)
- • Application form PD1
- • ID document and proof of address
PrDP Validity: Valid for 24 months, must be renewed before expiry. Costs approximately R200-R400.
Code C1 License Jobs and Career Opportunities
Delivery & Logistics
- • Delivery driver (courier companies)
- • Furniture truck driver
- • Refrigerated goods transport
- • Distribution driver
- • Parcel and freight delivery
Public Transport
- • Minibus taxi driver
- • Shuttle bus driver
- • Staff transport driver
- • Tour operator (small buses)
Specialized Roles
- • Ambulance driver
- • Municipal services driver
- • Breakdown/tow truck operator
- • Mobile workshop driver
- • Waste management driver
Average Salaries (2025):
Note: PrDP is typically required for all commercial driving jobs.
Upgrading Your License
Upgrading from Code B to Code C1
Many drivers start with Code B and upgrade to Code C1 for career advancement:
- 1. Obtain Code 3 learner's license (different from Code 2)
- 2. Complete Code C1 training
- 3. Pass Code C1 driving test
- 4. No need to retake Code B test
Benefit: Drive any vehicle under 16,000 kg, more job opportunities, flexibility between light and medium vehicles.
Upgrading from Code C1 to Higher Codes
- Code C1 to Code C: For heavy trucks over 16,000 kg. Requires additional learner's test and driving test.
- Code C1 to Code EC1: For articulated vehicles up to 16,000 kg GCM. Allows towing of heavy trailers.
- Code C1 to Code EC: For full articulated combinations (no weight limit). Requires Code C first, then upgrade to EC.
Automatic vs Manual Transmission
CODE C1 RESTRICTION:
- ✓Pass on MANUAL = Can drive both manual and automatic
- ✕Pass on AUTOMATIC = Can ONLY drive automatic vehicles
Most Code C1 training is done on manual transmission trucks, as the majority of commercial vehicles are manual. If you test on automatic, you'll have a restriction and won't be able to drive manual trucks.
Code C1 License Renewal
Your Code C1 license expires every 5 years:
Renewal Process:
- • Visit DLTC 3 months before expiry
- • Bring ID and current license
- • Complete eye test
- • Pay renewal fee (approximately R200-R300)
- • New license card issued in 4-6 weeks
Warning: It is ILLEGAL to drive with an expired license. Penalties include fines, vehicle impoundment, and criminal charges.
Common Code C1 License Questions
How long does it take to get a Code C1 license?
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Can I drive a Code B vehicle with a Code C1 license?
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Do I need Code B before getting Code C1?
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Can I drive a minibus taxi with Code C1?
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What's the weight limit for Code C1?
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Can I tow a trailer with Code C1?
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Is Code 10 still valid?
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How much does a Code 10 license cost?
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Tips for Passing Your Code C1 Test
- 1. Master the pre-trip inspection - This is critical
- 2. Practice in the same type of truck you'll test in
- 3. Understand weight and load distribution
- 4. Learn proper gear selection for hills
- 5. Practice yard maneuvers extensively
- 6. Get comfortable with the vehicle's size
- 7. Allow longer following distances
- 8. Check mirrors constantly (bigger blind spots)
- 9. Plan ahead - larger vehicles need more space
- 10. Stay calm - The truck feels different but you can do it
Why Get a Code C1 License?
Career Advancement
- • Opens doors to commercial driving jobs
- • Higher earning potential than Code B
- • In-demand skill across industries
Job Security
- • Logistics industry always needs drivers
- • E-commerce growth increases demand
- • Essential service (always needed)
Flexibility
- • Work as employee or contractor
- • Various industries available
- • Drive both light and medium vehicles
Earning Potential
- • Better salaries than Code B positions
- • Overtime opportunities
- • Special allowances for long distances
Conclusion
The Code C1 drivers license (formerly Code 10) is an excellent qualification for anyone seeking a career in commercial driving, logistics, or public transport. With proper training, dedicated practice, and professional instruction, you can obtain your Code C1 license and access a wide range of job opportunities.
Remember: Code C1 allows you to drive medium trucks (3,500-16,000 kg), includes Code B privileges, and requires a PrDP for commercial operations. The investment in training pays off quickly with increased earning potential and job opportunities.
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