Cape Town introduces digital learner’s licence tests for a smoother experience

Cape Town’s Driving Licence Testing Centres are moving away from paper-based learner’s licence exams, with a new computerised testing system set to go live at selected sites from Monday.

The City announced on Friday that the Computerised Learner’s Licence Testing (CLLT) system will be rolled out across all 18 of its Driving Licence Testing Centres (DLTCs), replacing the traditional booklet-based test with a digital, touchscreen format.

Installation has already been completed at four centres, Brackenfell, Elsies River, Joe Gqabi and Lingelethu West with Brackenfell and Elsies River scheduled to go live on December  15 . Go-live dates for the remaining centres will be communicated directly at facility level.

The City is acting as an implementing agent for the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and the Western Cape Government.

Mayoral committee member for safety and security JP Smith said the shift was “long overdue” and could ease pressure on an often-frustrating licensing process.

“This shift in gears is long overdue and brings us a step closer to the digital age,” Smith said. “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.”

He said the current licensing system remained overly burdensome for both the public and staff, who were reliant on a centralised national system that “fails far too often”.

The CLLT rollout is being phased in, with all City DLTCs expected to be operating on the new system by mid-February 2026.

According to the City, the new system offers faster and more accurate results through instant digital processing, reduces the risk of corruption through standardised testing, and includes fingerprint verification. Tests will be available in all 11 official languages and will cater for hearing-impaired applicants, while the system is also designed to continue operating during electricity outages.

Cape Town Traffic Services spokesperson Chief Inspector Kevin Jacobs said the change affects only how tests are written, not how appointments are booked.

“The new system changes only how applicants complete the test – the booking system remains the same,” Jacobs said. “DLTCs will have signage up advising the public of their installation progress and when the switch is made.”

He acknowledged that the transition could be overwhelming for some applicants but said examiners would continue to provide instructions, as with the written test. The digital platform also includes a demonstration function to help candidates familiarise themselves before starting.

“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,” Jacobs said.

Learner’s licence appointments can still be made at any of the City’s 18 DLTCs. Applicants can also prepare using a free downloadable study guide covering road signs, vehicle controls and the rules of the road, available via the national traffic information system.

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Cape Argus