Driving instructor's certificate applications

Driving school instructors have the important task of training learner drivers. Therefore, by law, all instructors must be in possession of a valid instructor’s certificate issued by a Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC).  An instructor’s certificate will specify the classes of vehicles that he or she is qualified to provide instruction in.  It is not only unlawful to train learner drivers without such a certificate, but also to employ any person as an instructor or make use of his or her services as an instructor, without a valid instructor’s certificate.  A learner driver should ask to see such certificate before lessons start.

To obtain an instructor's certificate, you are required to undergo a criminal record check, obtain a medical certificate and pass both a practical and a theoretical instructor's test. 

The instructor’s certificate must be renewed on an annual basis.

To apply for an instructor's certificate, you need to apply at  a DLTC by completing the relevant application form. The application must state which class(es) of motor vehicles you wish to register as an instructor for.
The application must be accompanied by:

• the appropriate fee
• two identical black and white identity photographs
• a copy of your identity document and 
• a copy of your driving licence.

If the application is in order, you will be required to:

• undergo a criminal record check at the South African Police Service (SAPS). 
• obtain a medical certificate from a medical practitioner at your own cost.  To this end a medical form (Form MC) can be obtained from the DLTC. 

Completed forms will then be sent to the Western Cape Mobility Department for authorisation for you to be tested. You can then make an appointment at the DLTC to take the tests (practical and theory) in order to obtain a report on your competency to act as an instructor. 

If you pass both tests, you will receive your certificate upon payment of an amount of R33.

The certificate is valid for a period of 12 months after which it must be renewed annually following the same procedure.

All forms are available at the DLTC and this process can take between 6 to 8 weeks.

When you receive your certificate, you can register with the Southern African Institute of Driving Instructors (SAIDI) or contact SAIDI at 012 998 3910.

For any enquiries you  can  contact the Helpdesk of the Directorate  Transport Administration and Licensing  at 021 483 2078/2080/6401 or follow the Western Cape Mobility Department on Twitter/ X: @WCGov_Mobility.

Provided at: Driving Licence Testing Centres

Government Body:  Western Cape Mobility Department

Price:    R165 (application) and R33 (issue of certificate)