Driving licences and categories of vehicles

You must hold a current driving licence or a learner permit before driving any

motor vehicle in a public place. You can drive only the type of vehicle for which

you hold a licence or learner permit. And you must carry your driving licence or

learner permit with you at all times when driving.

This section describes when and how to apply for or renew a driving licence. It

also describes the different categories of vehicle to which the licences apply.

Categories of vehicles and minimum age for a first learner permit

The following table outlines the types of vehicle you may drive under each

category of licence or permit, and the age you must reach before applying for a

first learner permit in the relevant category.

If you are under 16 years of age, you must not use any vehicle in a public place.

Design Gross Vehicle Weight (DGVW) is the term manufacturers use to describe

the weight of the vehicle together with the maximum load it is designed to

carry (including passengers, fuel, cargo and attachments). The DGVW is usually

shown on a metal plate attached to the vehicle by the manufacturer. The DGVW

may also be referred to as the Maximum Authorised Mass (MAM).

You must know and understand the carrying capacity of your vehicle or you are

at serious risk of having a crash or causing harm. Overloading