Driving with a learner’s licence: the rules

1Who must be with you

With a learner’s licence you may drive on public roads, freeways included, only when a licensed driver supervises you. That driver must hold a licence for the class of vehicle you are driving and sit next to you, or directly behind you if that is not possible.

If the vehicle needs a professional driving permit (PDP), the person supervising you must hold one too.

• Never drive alone on a learner’s licence for a car or heavy vehicle.
• Your supervisor’s licence must cover the vehicle you are driving.

2Passengers

You may carry passengers in a car or heavy vehicle as long as they do not pay a fare. Your supervisor counts as one of them.

3On a motorcycle

A learner motorcyclist may not carry a passenger, not even an instructor. That is why you ride on your own with a Code 1 learner’s licence.

4How long it lasts

A learner’s licence is valid for 24 months from the day it is issued, and it cannot be extended. If it runs out before you pass the driving test, you sit the learner’s test again and pay the fees again.

Carry it with you whenever you drive, and book the driving test well before it expires. Driving test slots can be weeks away.

• What a second learner’s costs

5From learner to driver

Use the 24 months to practise with your supervisor on real roads, then book the K53 driving test at a testing centre. You need a valid learner’s licence for the same code to book it.

• What the driving test checks
• Find your testing centre

?Short answers

Can I drive alone with a learner’s licence?

Not in a car or heavy vehicle. A driver licensed for that vehicle must supervise you, sitting next to you or directly behind you. On a motorcycle you ride alone, because a learner may not carry a passenger.

Can I drive on the freeway with a learner’s licence?

Yes, as long as a licensed driver for that vehicle is supervising you. The same rule applies on every public road.

Can I renew or extend my learner’s licence?

No. It lasts 24 months and cannot be extended. If it expires, you sit the learner’s test again and pay the test and issue fees again.