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Complete guide to DLTC restriction codes and condition codes on your South African driver's licence card
When you receive your South African driving licence card, you may notice restriction codes printed on it. These codes are added by the Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) and indicate specific conditions under which you are permitted to drive. Understanding what each restriction code means is important, as failing to comply with these conditions is a traffic offence.
Restriction codes are special codes printed on your South African driving licence card that specify conditions or limitations under which you may legally operate a motor vehicle. They are different from the licence category codes (like Code B, C1, EC) which indicate which types of vehicles you can drive.
Restriction codes are determined during the testing and assessment process at the DLTC. For example, if your eye test reveals you need glasses, or if you passed your driving test in an automatic vehicle, the relevant restriction code will be noted on your licence.
Important: You must always comply with the restriction codes on your licence. Driving without meeting the specified conditions (for example, driving without glasses when Code B/01 is on your licence) is considered a traffic offence and can result in a fine.
| Code | Meaning | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 01 | Corrective Lenses | Glasses or contact lenses must be worn while driving |
| 02 | Artificial Limb / Aid | An artificial limb or other physical aid must be used while driving |
| 03 | Automatic Transmission Only | Vehicle must be fitted with automatic transmission - manual vehicles are not permitted |
| 04 | Adapted Vehicle | Vehicle must be adapted to compensate for a physical disability (specific adaptations are noted) |
| B | Corrective Lenses (Glasses) | Corrective lenses (glasses/spectacles) required while driving - the most commonly seen restriction code |
Note: Code 01 and Code B both relate to corrective lenses. Code B is more commonly seen on modern licence cards. The specific code used may depend on the DLTC and when the licence was issued.
Glasses or contact lenses required
Restriction code 01 means you must wear corrective lenses (glasses or contact lenses) every time you drive. This restriction is determined during the mandatory eye test at the DLTC.
Physical assistive device required
Restriction code 02 indicates that the licence holder must use an artificial limb or other physical aid while driving. This code is added when a driver has a physical condition that requires assistive devices to safely operate a vehicle.
Cannot drive manual vehicles
Restriction code 03 is one of the most frequently asked-about codes. It means you passed your driving test in a vehicle with automatic transmission and are therefore restricted to driving automatic vehicles only.
Important: If code 03 appears on your licence, you are NOT legally allowed to drive a manual (stick shift) vehicle. Doing so is a traffic offence equivalent to driving without a valid licence for that vehicle.
Tip: If you are currently learning to drive, consider testing on a manual vehicle. Passing on manual means you can drive both manual and automatic vehicles, with no restriction code 03 on your licence.
Vehicle modifications required
Restriction code 04 means the vehicle you drive must be specially adapted to compensate for a physical disability. The specific adaptations required are noted on your licence.
Most common restriction code
Restriction code B is the most commonly seen restriction code on South African driving licences. It simply means you must wear corrective lenses (glasses or spectacles) while driving.
Don't confuse this with "Code B licence": Restriction code B (for glasses) is completely different from the Code B driving licence category (which refers to light motor vehicles up to 3,500 kg). They share the same letter but have entirely different meanings.
DLTC condition codes are noted on your licence card by the Driving Licence Testing Centre. They indicate specific conditions under which the licence holder may drive. These condition codes work alongside the restriction codes to define your driving permissions.
Where to find them: Restriction and condition codes appear on the front of your South African driving licence card, in the section next to your licence category. Check your card carefully to know which codes apply to you.
One of the most common questions about restriction codes relates to the automatic transmission restriction. Here is what you need to know:
This is why many driving instructors recommend learning on a manual vehicle, even if you plan to drive an automatic daily. It gives you the freedom to drive any vehicle without restrictions.
Yes, you can remove the automatic transmission restriction. To do this:
If your vision has improved (for example, after laser eye surgery), you may be able to have this restriction removed:
These codes relate to physical conditions and are assessed on a case-by-case basis. If your condition changes, visit your DLTC for a reassessment. The examiner will determine whether the restriction still applies.
Failing to comply with the restriction codes on your driving licence is a serious traffic offence in South Africa. Consequences include:
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