Learner's Licence Tips4 min read

How Many Questions Do You Need to Pass Your Learner's Test?

Before you can start learning to drive on South African roads, you need to pass the learner's licence test. But how many questions are there, and how many do you need to get right?

In brief

The learner's test has 68 questions You need to score at least 78% (about 53 out of 68) Road signs are the majority of the test - study them intensively

Introduction: How Many Questions Do You Need to Pass Your Learner's Test?

Before you can start learning to drive on South African roads, you need to pass the learner's licence test. But how many questions are there, and how many do you need to get right?

This guide gives you all the facts - plus tips to help you pass first time.

How Many Questions Are on the Learner's Test?

The South African learner's licence test has 68 questions.

These questions are divided into two sections:

You are shown images of road signs and must identify them correctly. These include:

These questions cover:

  • Road signs section (48 questions): Regulatory signs (speed limits, stop signs, no-entry)
  • Road signs section (48 questions): Warning signs (danger ahead, sharp curves, school crossings)
  • Road signs section (48 questions): Informatory signs (directions, distances, facilities)
  • Rules of the road section (20 questions): Traffic laws and road rules
  • Rules of the road section (20 questions): Right of way at intersections
  • Rules of the road section (20 questions): Following distance
  • Rules of the road section (20 questions): Lane use
  • Rules of the road section (20 questions): Traffic light rules

What Is the Pass Mark for the Learner's Test?

To pass the learner's test, you must score at least 78% overall.

With 68 questions, that means you must get at least 53 correct answers.

Note: Some provinces may apply the 78% pass mark section by section. Check with your local testing centre for the exact requirements.

  • Road Signs - 48 | ~37
  • Rules of the Road - 20 | ~16
  • Total - 68 | ~53 (78%)

How Hard Is the Learner's Test?

The learner's test is not extremely difficult if you study properly. Most people who fail do so because:

With 2-4 weeks of consistent study, passing on the first attempt is very achievable.

  • They did not study road signs carefully enough
  • They relied on guessing rather than proper study
  • They only studied for a few days

How to Study for the Learner's Test

This is the official guide that covers everything on the test. Buy it from a bookstore or driving school.

Focus on road signs every single day. Many people fail because they do not know enough signs.

Search for "K53 learners practice test" online. Many free practice sites allow you to test yourself repeatedly.

Don't neglect the rules section. These 20 questions are just as important.

Some driving schools offer short learner's test preparation sessions. These can significantly boost your chances.

Key Tips and Summary: How Many Questions Do You Need to Pass Your Learner's Test?

  • The learner's test has 68 questions
  • You need to score at least 78% (about 53 out of 68)
  • Road signs are the majority of the test - study them intensively
  • Study consistently for 2-4 weeks for best results
  • Practice tests online are one of the best study tools

Next step

Want help preparing for your learner's licence test?

Ditheto Driving Academy provides learner's test preparation alongside driving lessons - giving you everything you need in one place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Helpful follow-up answers related to this article.

How many questions are on the South African learner's test?

There are 68 questions - 48 on road signs and 20 on rules of the road.

What is the pass mark for the learner's test?

You need at least 78%, which means roughly 53 correct answers out of 68.

Can I guess on the learner's test?

The questions are multiple choice, so guessing is possible - but do not rely on it. Study properly.

How long does the learner's test take?

Most centres allow 60-90 minutes. Most learners finish in 30-45 minutes.

What happens if I fail the learner's test?

You can rebook and try again. There is a waiting period between attempts at most centres.

Is the learner's test the same across all provinces?

The test content is standardised nationally, but some administrative details may differ by province.

Chat on WhatsApp1
Call NowGet Pricing