At the age of 16 years or older, you may obtain a code 1 learners licence which will allow you to drive only
- a motor cycle type vehicle with a maximum engine capacity of 125 cc
- a moped where pedals are available to assist the engine or motor
If you are the holder of a valid code 1 learners licence and 18 years old or older, you may drive a motor cycle type vehicle with any engine capacity.
At the age of 17 years or older you may obtain a code 2 learners licence which will allow you to drive any motor vehicle excluding
- motor cycle type vehicles
- any motor vehicle of which the tare exceeds 3 500 kg
- a bus or goods vehicle of which the gross vehicle mass exceeds 3 500 kg
- an articulated motor vehicle of which the gross combination mass exceeds 3 500 kg
At the age of 18 years or older you may apply for a code 3 learners licence which allows the driving of any motor vehicle excluding motor cycle type vehicles.
Once you have obtained a learners licence, you may drive the type of vehicle for which the learners licence is valid. However, you must be accompanied by a driver licensed for the specific vehicle, except in the case of a motor cycle because a learner driver may not transport another person on a motor cycle.
You may be allowed to prebook a learners licence test spot at a call centre. Note that this is not the application, only courtesy to fit your diary. You must apply for a learners licence in person at a driving licence testing centre. You must submit the following:
- duly completed form LL1
- Two identical black and white or colour driving licence type photographs of yourself
The driving licence testing centre will provide you with a date and time on which you will be allowed to complete the learners licence test. You may apply before the qualifying age (see above), but at the time of the of the scheduled learners licence test, you have to be old enough in order to be issued with the learners licence. The learners licence test is a written test to verify your knowledge of the rules of the road, road traffic signs and the controls of a motor vehicle.
If you have passed the test, an issue fee is required to issue the learners licence certificate. One of your photos and your signature will be attached to the certificate and this should be covered with security tape.
You must hold a valid learners licence to be tested for the issuing of a driving licence, i.e. the learners licence must still be valid on the driving licence test appointment date. The learners licence remains valid for its full period unless cancelled by a court order. You may thus, for example, hold a learners licence and if you fail a (practical) driving licence test, be tested again within the period of validity of the learners licence.
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Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.