How much does a motorcycle license cost in South Africa?

If adventure and freedom are calling your name, it may be time to finally get your motorcycle license. But how much will it cost? We find out!

Lawrence Minnie

23 Apr 2024 · 11:37Bike Ownership

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Licensed life

Having a motorcycle license opens up an entirely new world of excitement and adventure, and it's easier and more affordable than you think. The process of obtaining your license can be as fast as to when you can get bookings to up to 2 years. Time aside, the cost has remained relatively the same.

Below we cover the licenses and what you can expect to pay at the licensing authority.

Three types of learner’s license explained

Learners license

Before you can hit the streets to begin your two-wheel training, you will need to obtain a learner's permit. This is a temporary A license that allows you to ride and do what a fully licensed rider can except that you may not carry a pillion (passenger). Your learner's is valid for a period of 24 months in which time you will need to complete your full license test or it will expire and you will need to redo the learners test.

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Motorcycle license types

According to South Africa's RTA (Road Traffic Act), motorcycle licenses are divided into two categories A and A1. Almost no one opts for A1 as it limits what you can ever ride so teh majority of those licensed will proudly display the A designation.

Code A1	Motorcycles or motorised scooters under 125cc in engine size
Code A	Motorcycles, motorised scooters, trikes, automatic or electrically driven over 125cc

What to do when your driver’s license expires

Cost breakdown

In order to get fully licensed to ride a bike on SA roads you can expect to pay about R2000 in total. This value is, of course, flexible depending on individual circumstances. Below is a general breakdown of the average cost to attain a license

Code A/A1 Learners License	R 100 booking fee / R 95 issuing fee
K53 yard test Lessons	R 450 per hour lesson (minimum 2 lessons)
Code A/A1 License test	R 100 booking fee / R 216 issuing fee + R300 booking fee for rental bike if not using your own motorcycle

*Pricing correct at time of publication

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more