City drives Computerised Learner's Licence Test rollout
12 December 2025
As an implementing agent for the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and the Western Cape Government, the City's Driving Licence Testing Centres are on a hard drive to operationalise the new system.
The Computerised Learner's Licence Testing (CLLT) system will be implemented at the City's 18 Driving Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs).
The system replaces the current manual booklet-based test and will allow learner licence applicants to tap their way through their test, using digital screens.
Installation has been completed at four DLTCs - Brackenfell, Elsies River, Joe Gqabi and Lingelethu West and the system will go live at Brackenfell and Elsies River on Monday, 15 December 2025.
The go-live dates at other DLTCs will be communicated at facility level.
'This shift in gears is long overdue and brings us a step closer to the digital age. Not only will it speed up the time it takes to complete the test, but so too the results. Perhaps it can even reduce waiting times for appointments. We are really excited about the change, and hopefully it'll unlock further positive digital developments, like the online booking system, which is only available in a few provinces currently. The licensing process remains far too onerous, causing great frustration for clients, but also our DLTC staff who are at the mercy of a centralised national system that fails far too often,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
The CLLT installation is being phased in, and it is envisioned that all DLTCs will have the new system by mid-February 2026.
Key Benefits of the CLLT System:
Faster and more accurate results thanks to instant digital processing
Reduces the risk of corruption through secure and standardised testing
Equipped with fingerprint verification and touchscreen functionality for a modern, user-friendly experience
Tests are available in all 11 official languages and the system supports hearing-impaired applicants, making the process more inclusive
Uninterrupted service as systems are designed to remain operational during electricity outages
‘The new system changes only how applicants complete the test – the booking system remains the same. DLTCs will have signage up, advising the public of their installation progress and when the switch is made. We understand that this can be somewhat overwhelming, but examiners are still required to provide instructions as is currently the case with the written test. The digital system will also have a demonstration function to help candidates familiarise themselves with what’s expected, before the test gets under way. This is a massive change, and while we hope for a seamless transition, we also ask the public for their cooperation and patience during this time,’ said Cape Town Traffic Services spokesperson, Chief Inspector Kevin Jacobs.
Appointments and Preparation:
Learner’s licence test appointments can be made at any of the City of Cape Town’s 18 Driving Licence Testing Centres.
To help applicants prepare, a free downloadable study guide is available, covering road signs, vehicle controls, and the rules of the road. It can be downloaded here.
For more information about learner licences and the requirements, please visit the City's website.
Caption: The new digital learner’s licence testing set up at Brackenfell Driving Licence Testing Centre
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Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
