Practice test

South Africa driving test Pass first time

Prepare for the Road Traffic Management Corporation driving theory test with realistic practice questions. 68 questions, 51/68 needed to pass.

  • 68Questions
  • 51 / 68Pass mark
  • 60Minutes

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What does a circular sign with a red border and a number "60" inside indicate on a South African road?

Test your knowledge with sample questions from the official exam. No signup required.

Data sourced from Road Traffic Management CorporationRTMC · Last updated 15 March 2026
RTMC
Driving test index12 /100Very Easy

Based on AutoviaTest's global analysis, the driving licence system in South Africa ranks as one of the most accessible in the world — with a Driving Test Index score of 12/100.

Its 75% theory pass mark ranks #59 out of 65 countries analysed worldwide.

About the RTMC theory test

The official driving theory test in South Africa is administered by Road Traffic Management Corporation. Here's what you need to know.

Test format68 multiple-choice
Duration60 minutes
Pass mark51 / 68
Test feeR145-R320learner's, varies by province
Official source: Road Traffic Management Corporation

Driving rules in South Africa

Key rules and regulations you need to know for your theory test.

Speed limits

60Urban areaskm/h
100Rural roadskm/h
120Highwayskm/h

Driving information

Driving sideleft
Emergency number10111
Minimum age17 years
License validity5 years
Alcohol limit0.05% (0.02% for professional drivers)

Important rules

  1. K53 standardised test system covering observation, vehicle control, and defensive driving
  2. Must pass each of 3 test sections individually — failing any one means failing entire test
  3. No left turn on red (equivalent of no turn on red for left-driving countries)
  4. Approximately 70% of vehicles are uninsured — car insurance is not mandatory
  5. Minibus taxis carry 70% of commuters and are known for aggressive, unpredictable driving
  6. Common practice to flash hazard lights as a thank you gesture
  7. Slower vehicles move onto shoulder to let faster traffic pass on national roads
  8. AARTO demerit point system — 15 points maximum before licence suspension

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Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the South Africa driving test?

The RTMC driving theory test has 68 questions. You need 51/68 to pass.

How long is the RTMC theory test?

You have 60 minutes to complete the RTMC driving theory test.

What is the pass mark for the South Africa driving test?

You need 51/68 to pass the RTMC theory test (68 questions).

How much does the RTMC test cost?

The RTMC driving theory test costs approximately R145-R320 (learner's, varies by province).

Is AutoviaTest free to use?

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Last updated15 March 2026
Reviewed byPawan PriyadarshiFounder & Chief Engineer
Data sourced fromRoad Traffic Management Corporation and official government sources. Cross-referenced with multiple authoritative sources for accuracy.