A STEP INTO THE WORLD OF DRIVING; GETTING A LEARNERS LICENCE

First on my list for this year is to get a drivers licence. Getting it would mean that I will also be looking to get a car of my own. So I hereby invite you on my journey, where I will find out exactly everything that has to do with buying and owning a car. From buying a new car verses a used one, getting it on a loan or saving up and buying it cash, to knowing what the function of all car parts is and also how to maintain a car. 

But before I get ahead of myself, I first have to go through the process of obtaining the most important document before I start driving - the Learners Licence. 

How does one obtain a learners licence?

A learners licence is what allows you to drive but, only when supervised by someone who is an experienced licensed driver. It proves that you have the basic motor vehicle and road rules knowledge. To get it, you have to visit your nearest driving licensing testing centre (DLTC) to book a test date and confirm the booking. You will need to have with you, your identity (ID) document, two identical ID photographs but confirm with the licensing testing centre how many photos they require and lastly you will need a booking fee. 

On the same day that you will be booking, you will complete the application for learner’s licence form (LL1), which is available at the DLTC and if you are 65 years or older, you must also complete a Medical Certificate form (MC), which is available at the licensing testing centre. Then you will undergo an eye test at the testing centre or alternatively you may have an eye test performed at a qualified optometrist and submit the form at the testing centre but, make sure that the optometrist submission will be accepted at the testing centre where you will be writing.

Before you write the learner’s licence test, you must study road signs, motor vehicle controls and road rules to have a basic motoring knowledge. Study materials to help you prepare for the learner's licence test are available at various shops.

On the day of the test, you will need to bring with you the booking receipt and your ID. The learners licence is issued on the same day and you will be required to pay an issue fee to get it. It will be valid for 24 months, which gives you time to go on to the next step and get your drivers licence.