Code 10, Code 14 & PrDP: The Complete Driver’s Licence Guide (2026)

Driving jobs are among the most reliable sources of work in South Africa — but to land them you usually need the right licence code and, for most professional driving, a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP). This guide explains the codes, the PrDP, and how to apply.

South African licence codes explained

• Code A / A1 – motorcycles.
• Code B (Code 8) – light vehicles up to 3,500 kg (most cars and bakkies).
• Code C1 (Code 10) – goods vehicles between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg.
• Code C (Code 10/14) – goods vehicles over 16,000 kg.
• Code EC (Code 14) – articulated vehicles and truck-tractor combinations (the heaviest trucks).

For most delivery and truck-driving jobs you will need at least a Code 10 (C1); for heavy long-haul and articulated trucks, employers ask for Code 14 (EC).

What is a PrDP and who needs one?

A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is required on top of your licence if you drive professionally — that is, you transport goods for reward in a vehicle over 3,500 kg, carry passengers for reward, or transport dangerous goods. Almost every paid driving job will list a valid PrDP as a requirement.

There are three PrDP categories: G (goods), P (passengers) and D (dangerous goods).

PrDP requirements

To qualify for a PrDP you need:

1. A valid driving licence for the vehicle you will drive.
2. A medical certificate completed by a registered doctor on the official RTMC (MED-1) form — it must be less than 2 months old at the time of application and covers vision, hearing and general fitness.
3. A SAPS criminal record check — you cannot hold certain recent convictions (for example, driving under the influence in the past five years).
4. To be 18 or older.

How to apply for a PrDP, step by step

1. Book an appointment at your nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC).
2. Get your MED-1 medical done beforehand (within the 2-month window).
3. Go to the DLTC with your ID, licence, medical certificate and the fee; your fingerprints are taken for the SAPS check.
4. After about 5–10 working days, once the criminal check clears, return to collect a temporary PrDP (around R84), valid for 6 months.
5. The permanent PrDP card can take up to 12 weeks to be produced — the temporary permit lets you drive professionally in the meantime.

A PrDP is valid for 5 years, after which you renew it (including a fresh medical).

Tips for landing a driving job

• Keep your PrDP, licence and medical current — expired documents are the most common reason applications are rejected.
• Mention your licence code and PrDP category clearly on your CV.
• Be honest about your experience with specific vehicle types.

Find driving jobs now

Browse the latest driver jobs on Jobenza — Code 8, 10 and 14 roles across delivery, courier, truck and company driving — and apply directly with each employer.

*This guide is general information, not official legal advice. Always confirm current requirements and fees with your local DLTC or the official government website.*