Code A vs Code A1 — Which Do You Need?
South Africa has two motorcycle licence categories:
Code A1
Motorcycles with an engine capacity of up to 125cc. You can apply from age 16. Best for: scooters, small commuter bikes, and learners who want to start riding as early as possible.
Code A
Any motorcycle, regardless of engine capacity. You can apply from age 17. Best for: riders who plan to ride larger bikes (250cc and above). This is the more versatile option.
Good to know: If you get a Code A licence, it covers all motorcycles including those under 125cc. A Code A1 licence restricts you to bikes of 125cc or smaller. If you’re 17 or older, getting Code A makes the most sense unless you specifically only ever intend to ride a small scooter.
Requirements and Documents
The documentation requirements are identical to a car learner’s licence:
- South African ID document (smart card, green book, or passport for foreign nationals)
- One black-and-white passport-sized photograph
- R88 test fee
- Corrective lenses if you wear glasses or contacts
The process at the DLTC is also the same: document check, eye test, then the written test.
What the Motorcycle Learner’s Test Covers
The test format is identical to the car learner’s — 64 multiple-choice questions in the same three sections. But the Vehicle Controls section asks about motorcycle-specific controls rather than car controls:
| Section | Questions | Pass Mark | Content |
|---|---|---|---|
| Road Signs | 28 | 77% | Same road signs as the car test — identical content |
| Rules of the Road | 28 | 77% | Mostly the same, with some motorcycle-specific rules |
| Vehicle Controls | 8 | 75% | Motorcycle-specific: throttle, brakes, clutch, gear shifter, mirrors, lights, kill switch |
Pro tip on road signs
The road signs section is exactly the same regardless of vehicle type. You can use any K53 study guide for this section. The difference is only in the vehicle controls questions. Make sure your study material specifically includes motorcycle controls.
Motorcycle-Specific Controls You Must Know
The vehicle controls section will test your knowledge of the motorcycle’s layout. Here are the key controls:
Right handlebar
Throttle (twist grip for acceleration) and front brake lever (squeeze to apply front brake).
Left handlebar
Clutch lever (squeeze to disengage clutch for gear changes) and possibly a choke lever on older bikes.
Right foot
Rear brake pedal (press down to apply rear brake).
Left foot
Gear shift lever. Press down to shift into first gear from neutral, then click up for higher gears (1-N-2-3-4-5-6). Neutral is a half-click between first and second.
Dashboard
Speedometer, tachometer (if fitted), neutral indicator light (usually green), high beam indicator (blue), turn signal indicators, oil pressure warning light, engine temperature gauge.
Switches
Kill switch (engine cut-off, usually red, right side), headlight switch, indicator switch (left handlebar), horn button (left handlebar), starter button (right side).
Rules That Apply to Motorcycle Learners
Once you have your motorcycle learner’s licence, these rules apply:
- You must wear an approved motorcycle helmet at all times while riding
- You may not carry passengers — learner motorcycle riders must ride solo
- You must display an “L” plate on the back of the motorcycle
- You should ride with a licenced motorcycle rider who can observe you, though this is practically difficult on a motorcycle
- You may not ride on freeways
- Reflective or high-visibility clothing is strongly recommended
Preparing for the Motorcycle Practical Test
After passing the learner’s test, your next step is the practical riding test. This is different from the car practical test and includes:
Yard test:
- Figure-of-eight at low speed
- Emergency stop from 30 km/h
- Slow ride in a straight line (balance test)
- U-turn within a marked area
Road test:
Similar to the car road test — observation, signalling, lane positioning, intersection technique — but adapted for motorcycle riding. The examiner follows in a car or observes from a fixed point, depending on the DLTC.
Where to practise
Unlike car learners who can practise with a licenced driver beside them, motorcycle learners need more creative solutions. Many motorcycle riding schools have private training grounds where you can practise before venturing onto public roads. This is strongly recommended for complete beginners.
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Learner’s test fee | R88 |
| Practical test fee | R176 |
| Motorcycle riding lessons (5–10 lessons) | R3,000 – R7,000 |
| Helmet (entry-level, SABS approved) | R600 – R1,500 |
| Gloves (recommended) | R300 – R800 |
| Riding jacket (recommended) | R1,000 – R3,000 |
| Total estimate | R5,164 – R12,564 |
Gear costs vary widely. At minimum, you legally need a helmet. Gloves, a jacket, and boots are not legally required but are strongly recommended for safety. Many riding schools include a helmet and gloves in their lesson fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I ride a motorcycle with a car learner’s licence?
No. A car learner’s licence (Code 8/B) only allows you to drive a light motor vehicle. You need a separate Code A or A1 learner’s licence to ride a motorcycle. The two are completely independent — you can hold both at the same time.
Do I need to own a motorcycle to get the licence?
No. Many motorcycle riding schools provide bikes for both lessons and the practical test. You don’t need to own a motorcycle at any point in the process.
Can I ride a scooter without a motorcycle licence?
If the scooter’s engine capacity is 50cc or less and its top speed doesn’t exceed 45 km/h, it technically still requires a motorcycle licence under SA law. However, enforcement varies. Any scooter over 50cc definitely requires a Code A1 or Code A licence.
Is the motorcycle learner’s test harder than the car test?
The difficulty is about the same. The road signs and rules sections are identical. The vehicle controls section is different but not harder — it just tests motorcycle controls instead of car controls. If you study the motorcycle-specific material, you’ll be well prepared.
How do I find a motorcycle riding school?
Motorcycle-specific riding schools are less common than car driving schools. Look for schools affiliated with recognised organisations or those that specifically advertise motorcycle training. Comparison tools can help you find options in your area.