Applying for a driving instructor’s certificate

Driving school instructors have the important task of training vehicle road users. This is why all instructors must be registered with the provincial Department of Transport and Public Works. 

It’s unlawful to train road users without a certificate.  While there are many instructors operating without a certificate, you can find a registered instructor and ask to see their certificate before you start lessons.

An instructors’ certificate will specify the grades or classes that they’re qualified to provide.

What are the grade types?

You will be graded as:

• Grade A: Drivers can teach any driving code and must be in possession of both code EC and A driving licences.
• Grade B: Drivers can teach codes B, C1, C, EB, EC1 and EC. He /she must be in possession of a code EC driving licence.
• Grade C: Drivers can teach codes A1, A and B, and should have a code EB and A driving licence.
• Grade D: Drivers can teach code B and should have a code EB driving licence.
• Grade L: This grade or class permits learner’s licence training.

How to apply 

By law, all instructors should obtain an instructor's certificate, obtain a medical certificate and pass an instructor's test.

Here’s what you need to do before you make an appointment:

1. Take two identical black and white photographs, it should: 
   

• be 45mm x 35mm, and
• be printed on quality paper and captured by a professional photographer.

2. Have the required application fee of R165.
3. Go to your nearest driving licence centre with your ID book and a valid driver’s licence.

At the licencing centre you should: 

1. Complete an application form at the driving licence centre.
2. Undergo a medical check using the medical certificate form.
3. Receive a date for your driving test, to test your driving abilities.

If you pass, your application will be sent to a member of the executive committee (MEC) of transport for approval. When your application is approved, you must pay R33 to receive your certificate.

All forms are available at the testing centre and this process can take 6 – 8 weeks.

Remember

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

You can also contact the Transport Administration and Licensing Helpdesk at 021 483 2080 / 2078 / 2469 or follow the Department of Transport and Public Works on twitter: @WCGovTPW.

Useful links

• Applying for a learner’s licence
• Applying for a driving licence
• Renewing your driving licence
• Replacing your driving licence