Driving license codes

[gerasmus]

I have a UK driving license, on the card it has a A1 printed, which I guess is up to 125cc. On my paper counterpart license I have provisional A, as far I know, which is any size bike. What size bike can I then legally ride in South Africa ? If I need to 'upgrade' my A1 ==> A license, how would I transfer it ? Would I have to do the theory and riding test again ?

When I was in the UK I used to have a 500cc 'maxi' scooter. I sent the proviosional license to my insurance company and they didn't complain.

 

[Fazda]

You will have to check at the traffic department, and the idiots will probably ask you to do a re-test...they make more money that way...

Didn't you apply for an International DL before you left the UK?

 

[gerasmus]

I think you are correct about the re-testing. The driving license system in South Africa is in total chaos. Just think how long I will have to wait for the appointment to make an appointment ==> The testing appointment which could be months away. It was a culture shock to get back to S-Africa, where in the UK all info was online and everything happened blistering fast.
I understood that UK license is also valid in SA, therefore I did not yet apply.

 

[Fazda]

YUP, sadly it's a case of "Welcome Back to the NSA"