Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the Code 10 Driving Licence. This type of licence is a critical certification for individuals who wish to operate heavier vehicles, beyond the scope of a standard passenger car.
Contents of This Page
The Code 10 licence, also known as a Class C1 licence in some regions, allows the holder to drive a vehicle that is between 3.5 and 16 tons in weight, and can include minibuses, buses, and goods vehicles.
Whether you’re a professional driver looking to expand your qualifications, or an individual seeking the freedom to drive a wider range of vehicles, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information.
We’ll cover everything from the requirements and application process, to the practical and theoretical tests, and even tips for driving these larger vehicles safely and efficiently.
Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to successfully obtain your Code 10 Driving Licence. So, buckle up and let’s embark on this journey together!
If you are looking for information regarding another licence code, such as Code CE or Code B, then check out our pages on those.
Understanding The Code 10 Driver’s Licence
If you are looking to drive a vehicle weighing up to 16,000 kg with a trailer of up to 750 kg, you will need a Code 10 driver’s licence. This licence also allows you to legally drive a Code 8 vehicle. In this section, we will explain what a Code 10 driver’s licence is, who needs it, and how to obtain it.
What is a Code 10 driving licence?
A Code 10 driver’s licence is a type of driving licence that allows you to operate a heavy motor vehicle with a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of up to 16,000 kg and a trailer of up to 750 kg. This licence is also known as a code C1 licence in Namibia and the European Union.
Who needs a Code 10 drivers licence?
If you want to drive a vehicle that exceeds the weight limit of a Code 8 licence, you will need a Code 10 drivers licence. This licence is required for a range of professions, including truck and bus drivers, delivery drivers, and construction workers who operate heavy machinery.
How to obtain a Code 10 driver’s licence
To obtain a Code 10 driver’s licence, you must first obtain a learner’s licence. You can apply for a learner’s licence at your local driving licence testing centre by completing a written test on the rules of the road. Once you have your learner’s licence, you can start practising driving with a qualified driver.
When you feel ready, you can book your driving test at a driving licence testing centre. The driving test will consist of a practical driving test and a yard test to assess your ability to manoeuvre the vehicle. If you pass both tests, you will be issued with a Code 10 drivers licence.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Code 10 drivers licence can open up a range of job opportunities and allow you to drive a wider range of vehicles. However, it is important to ensure that you are properly trained and prepared before taking the driving test. With the right training and practice, you can pass the test and obtain your Code 10 driver’s licence with confidence.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Code 10 drivers licence, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. These criteria include:
Age Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Code 10 drivers licence in South Africa.
Valid Identification
You must have a valid South African ID book or Smart Card to apply for a Code 10 drivers licence. If you are a foreign national, you must have a valid passport and work/business permit.
Medical Fitness
You must be medically fit to drive a vehicle. This means that you must pass a medical examination conducted by a registered medical practitioner.
Learner’s Licence
Before you can apply for a Code 10 drivers licence, you must obtain a learner’s licence. To obtain a learner’s licence, you must pass a written test on the rules of the road.
Driving Experience
You must have a minimum of six months’ driving experience before you can apply for a Code 10 drivers licence. This experience must be in the class of vehicle you wish to obtain a licence for.
Criminal Record
You must not have a criminal record for any offence relating to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, reckless or negligent driving, or any other offence that may affect your ability to drive safely.
It is important to note that meeting these eligibility criteria does not guarantee that you will be issued a Code 10 driver’s licence. You must also pass the required driving tests and meet all other requirements set out by the licensing authority.
Application Process
To apply for a Code 10 drivers licence, you need to follow a few steps. This section will provide you with all the information you need to know about the application process.
Documentation
Before you start the application process, you need to make sure you have all the necessary documentation. You will need the following:
- A valid South African ID document or passport
- A valid learner’s licence
- Two black and white ID photos
- A proof of residence document that is not older than three months
- A valid eye test certificate
Procedure
Once you have all the necessary documentation, you can start the application process. Here’s what you need to do:
- Go to your nearest driving licence testing centre (DLTC) and book a test date.
- On the day of your test, arrive at the DLTC with all your documentation.
- You will be required to complete an application form and pay the application fee.
- You will then need to undergo a vision test and a driving test.
- If you pass both tests, your driver’s licence will be issued to you immediately.
Fees and Payment
To apply for a Code 10 drivers licence, you will need to pay an application fee. The fee varies depending on the province you are in, but it is usually around R250. You can pay the fee in cash or by card at the DLTC.
The application process for a Code 10 drivers licence is relatively straightforward. By following the steps outlined in this section, you can ensure that you have all the necessary documentation and that you are prepared for the tests. Good luck!
Driving Test
When applying for a Code 10 drivers licence in the UK, you will be required to pass both a theory and practical driving test. Here is what you need to know about each test:
Theory Test
The theory test is a multiple-choice exam that assesses your knowledge of the Highway Code and road safety. You will have 57 minutes to answer 50 questions, and you must score at least 43 out of 50 to pass.
To prepare for the theory test, you can use resources such as the official Highway Code book, online practice tests, and mobile apps. It is important to study the material thoroughly and understand the rules of the road, as the questions can be quite detailed and specific.
During the test, you will be presented with a series of questions and answers on a computer screen. You will need to select the correct answer by clicking on it with a mouse or touchscreen. You can flag questions for review and return to them later if you are unsure of the answer.
Practical Test
The practical driving test is designed to assess your ability to drive safely and competently in a variety of situations. It consists of several parts, including a pre-drive check, a driving ability test, and a test of your knowledge of the vehicle and its controls.
During the driving ability test, you will be asked to perform a series of manoeuvres, such as reversing around a corner, parking, and turning in the road. You will also need to demonstrate your ability to drive safely on different types of roads, including dual carriageways and motorways.
To prepare for the practical test, you can take driving lessons with a qualified instructor and practice your driving skills on a variety of roads and in different weather conditions. It is important to be confident behind the wheel and to know how to handle different situations, such as roundabouts, traffic lights, and pedestrian crossings.
Overall, passing the Code 10 driving test requires a combination of knowledge, skill, and confidence. By studying the Highway Code, practicing your driving skills, and taking the test seriously, you can increase your chances of success and become a safe and responsible driver on UK roads.
Licence Renewal
When to Renew
Your Code 10 drivers licence is valid for a period of five years. You should renew your licence before it expires to avoid any penalties or fines. You can renew your licence up to six months before it expires.
Renewal Process
To renew your Code 10 driver’s licence, you will need to visit your nearest driving licence testing centre. You will need to bring along the following documents:
- Your original identity document (ID) or valid South African passport.
- A certified copy of your ID or passport.
- Two black and white ID photographs.
- Proof of residential address (e.g. utility bill or bank statement).
- The renewal fee.
Once you have all the necessary documents, you will need to complete the renewal application form. You will then be required to undergo an eye test and a fingerprint verification.
After completing the renewal process, you will receive a temporary driving licence that will be valid for six months. Your new Code 10 driver’s licence will be sent to you via registered post within four to six weeks.
It is important to note that failure to renew your Code 10 driver’s licence before it expires will result in a penalty fee. If your licence has been expired for more than five years, you will be required to redo the driving test.
Penalties and Violations
As a Code 10 driver, it is important to understand the penalties and violations that may result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s licence. Here are some of the most common violations and their corresponding penalties:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offence that can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s licence. The penalties for DUI may vary depending on the severity of the offence and the number of previous convictions. In general, first-time offenders may face a fine, community service, or even imprisonment.
Repeat offenders may face more severe penalties, including longer prison sentences and permanent revocation of their driver’s licence.
Speeding
Exceeding the speed limit is a common traffic violation that can result in fines and demerit points on your driver’s licence.
The amount of the fine and the number of demerit points may vary depending on the speed at which you were travelling and the location of the offence. In some cases, excessive speeding may result in the immediate suspension of your driver’s licence.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a serious offence that includes a wide range of dangerous behaviours, such as driving too fast, weaving in and out of traffic, and failing to yield to other drivers. The penalties for reckless driving may include fines, demerit points, and even imprisonment in some cases.
Failure to Stop at a Red Light or Stop Sign
Failing to stop at a red light or stop sign is a common traffic violation that can result in fines and demerit points on your driver’s licence. In some cases, repeated violations may result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s licence.
Other Violations
There are many other violations that may result in penalties or the suspension/revocation of your driver’s licence, including driving without a licence, driving with a suspended licence, and leaving the scene of an accident. It is important to familiarise yourself with the traffic laws in your area to avoid these violations and keep your driver’s licence in good standing.