Where must I wear my licence and race numbers?
Rule- South Africa
- Athletics South Africa
- ASA Rules 2024 onwards
- World Athletics rules
- Road running
- All ages
- 2026
- Runners
Permanent licence (ASA Rule 26): you get two licence bibs and must wear one on the front and one on the back of your vest. Not wearing both leads to disqualification. A licence can never be used by another runner.
Temporary licence: one bib, worn on the front. If the organiser also gives you a single race number, the temporary licence goes on the back.
Organiser's race numbers (Rule 27.1):
- If only one race number is issued, wear it on the front.
- Pin it so the ASA licence sponsor and the province and year stay visible above it. It may cover the licence numerals, but organisers may never replace your licence with a race number.
- Race numbers are not transferable.
Special number bibs (Rule 27.2): only ASA-approved major events may issue special numbers that replace or fully cover your licence. You must still be able to show your licence if the referee or organiser asks before the race, after the race or before prize-giving; not producing it can lead to disqualification. If only one special number is issued, wear it on the front and a valid licence on the back.
Added 22 Oct 2026