It is an offence to drive a motor vehicle on a road without a valid licence, see Driving without a licence.

The law governing driving licences is contained in the Motor Vehicles Act 1959 (SA) and all references in this part are to this Act unless otherwise stated.

There are a number of different classes of licences or permits. These include a learner's permit, Provisional Licence and Probationary Licence (all of which are subject to conditions) and, of course, an unconditional licence (known as a full licence).

There are also different classes of licence that enable the holder to drive a particular class of vehicle, such as a bus or heavy vehicle.

A temporary licence can be issued by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles where there is a delay in the decision about whether a licence or permit should be issued or renewed, or where there is a wait to receive a licence or permit with a photograph of the holder.

Information about the different types of licences is available from SA Gov – Driving and Transport website or the My Licence SA website including information about: