How do I change my license from B to EB?

Understanding the Licenses

1. Code B License: Allows you to drive light motor vehicles, such as cars, with a Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) of up to 3,500 kg. This license does not permit you to tow a heavy trailer.
2. Code EB License: Permits you to drive the same light motor vehicles as a Code B license, but with a trailer over 750 kg GVM, provided the combined GVM of the vehicle and trailer does not exceed 3,500 kg. This is ideal for personal use, such as towing a small caravan, boat, or light trailer for recreational purposes.
3. Code EC1 License: Allows you to drive medium vehicles (GVM between 3,500 kg and 16,000 kg) and tow a trailer with a GVM exceeding 750 kg, as long as the combined GVM does not exceed 16,000 kg. This license is more suited for professional use, such as driving larger vehicles used for commercial purposes, including delivery trucks or small lorries that tow significant loads. This is the license to go for if you dream of driving an overlanding truck. Some people reckon it might actually be slightly easier to obtain an EC1 license since you are not required to alley dock with the trailer.

Requirements for Upgrading to an EB or EC1 License

Medical Certification

You will need a medical certificate to prove you are fit to drive. This can be obtained from a registered medical practitioner who will assess your physical health, eyesight, and general well-being.

Learner's License

Before you can upgrade, you must obtain the appropriate learner's license for the category you wish to upgrade to:

• For EB License: Apply for a Code EB learner’s license.
• For EC1 License: Apply for a Code EC1 learner’s license.

Steps to Upgrade from a Code B to an EB or EC1 License

Step 1: Learner's License Application

1. Book the Test: Visit your local licensing department to book the learner’s license test. This can also be done online through the eNatis website or relevant provincial transport department websites. The booking fee is in the region of R100, depending on the province you live in.
2. Documentation: Provide the following documents:
3. Valid identification document (ID)
4. Existing driver’s license
5. Two passport-size photos
6. Proof of residential address
7. Study: Prepare for the learner’s license test by studying the K53 manual, which covers rules of the road, road signs, and vehicle controls.
8. Take the Test: Attend the scheduled learner’s license test. It is a written or computerized test based on the K53 manual.
9. Obtain Learner's License: If you pass the test, you will be issued a learner's license, which allows you to practice driving the vehicle category you intend to upgrade to under supervision. There is an issue fee of around R60. With the learner's license, you are allowed to drive vehicles that require an EB/EC1 license on public roads for one year with a qualified EB/EC1 driver with you.

Step 2: Driving Lessons and Practice

• Professional Driving Lessons: Enrol in a driving school that offers training for the EB or EC1 license. Professional instruction is crucial, especially for handling trailers and larger vehicles. Most driving schools charge around R250/h. Lessons are typically 2 hours. The best would be to use your own vehicle and trailer to practice. Remember that you should use a manual transmission car if you don’t want the auto-only restriction on your license.
• Practice: Gain practical experience driving the required vehicle type as often as possible. The two tests most people find challenging are pulling away on an incline and alley docking. Make sure a qualified EB/EC1 driver is with you in the car.

Step 3: Booking the Driving Test

1. Schedule the Test: Once you feel prepared, schedule the driving test for your desired license category at your local licensing department. The booking fee for the driver's test is also around R100.
2. Required Documents:
3. Valid learner’s license for the relevant category
4. Valid identification document (ID)
5. Two passport-size photos
6. Proof of residential address
7. Medical certificate

Step 4: The Driving Test

1. Test Preparation: Ensure the vehicle you will use for the test meets all legal requirements and is in good working order. This includes checking that the trailer is properly attached and functioning.
2. On the Day of the Test: Arrive early and bring all necessary documents. The test will assess your ability to handle the vehicle, including reversing, parking, and general road skills. Some of the practical tests might include:
3. 1 x 90° left turn moving forward with the trailer (don't touch the lines or stop halfway).
4. 1 x 20m straight reverse with the trailer
5. 1 x alley dock from the right. The alley is double the width and length of a normal parking bay. Some people reported that the alley dock wasn’t required for the EC1 license test.
6. 1 x incline pull away with the trailer.
7. 2 x parallel parking without the trailer.
8. Normal driving test on the public roads with the trailer attached. Think blind spots, checks, gear changes, full stops, speed limits, etc.
9. Passing the Test: If you pass, you will be issued a temporary license valid for six months while your new license card is being processed. This can take between 6 to 8 weeks.
10. Collecting the License: Collect your new license from the licensing department once it is ready. The issuing fee is around R200.

Conclusion

Upgrading from a Code B to an EB or EC1 license in South Africa involves several steps, including obtaining the appropriate learner's license, gaining practical driving experience, and passing the driving test. With the right preparation and adherence to the required procedures, you can successfully upgrade your license, allowing you to drive with a trailer or medium-sized vehicle legally.