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Learner's licence pass mark and number of questions
South Africa's computerised learner's licence test has 64 multiple-choice questions and you have 60 minutes. It is split into three sections, and you must pass every section on its own: a high score in one section can't make up for a low score in another.
Pass mark per section
| Section | Questions | Need right | Can get wrong | Pass mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle controls | 8 | 6 | 2 | 75% |
| Road signs, signals & markings | 28 | 23 | 5 | 82% |
| Rules of the road | 28 | 22 | 6 | 79% |
| Total | 64 | Each section is passed separately | ||
Pass marks as published; confirm the format with your testing centre when you book.
How many questions can you get wrong?
At most 2 in vehicle controls, 5 in road signs and 6 in rules of the road. One more wrong in any section means you fail the whole test, even if the other two sections are perfect. That's why most people who fail, fail on signs: 23 out of 28 is the strictest mark.
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How the test works
- The test is done on a computer at a driving licence testing centre (DLTC).
- The 64 questions are drawn at random from a bank of about 1 200, so cheat sheets and memorising "the questions" don't work.
- Each question has three options and one correct answer.
- The test covers the rules of the road, road traffic signs, signals and markings, and the controls of a vehicle.
- Once you pass, your learner's licence is valid for 24 months.
Frequently asked questions
What is the pass mark for the learner's licence test?
You must pass each section on its own: at least 6 out of 8 for vehicle controls, 23 out of 28 for road signs, signals and markings, and 22 out of 28 for rules of the road.
How many questions are in the learner's test in South Africa?
64 questions: 8 on vehicle controls, 28 on road signs, signals and markings, and 28 on rules of the road. You have 60 minutes.
Can I pass if I fail one section?
No. Each section must be passed separately, so failing any one section means failing the test.
How long is the learner's licence valid after I pass?
24 months from the day you pass the test.
Sources
Everything on this page comes from these official documents. Phasa is independent and not affiliated with the Department of Transport or the RTMC.