South Africa has officially recognised e-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt as part of the country’s public transport system, following a landmark amendment to the National Land Transport Act.
The legislative change brings ride-hailing platforms under formal regulation for the first time, introducing clear rules for both drivers and operators.
Stricter Rules for Drivers
All e-hailing drivers will now be required to obtain operating licences from Provincial Regulatory Entities and must hold valid Professional Driving Permits (PDPs). Vehicles will also need to display company branding and be fitted with panic buttons, aimed at improving passenger and driver safety.
Compliance for Companies
In addition, e-hailing companies must register with regulators, comply with South Africa’s tax and company laws, and ensure their operations meet legal requirements. Non-compliance carries heavy penalties, including fines of up to R100,000 or possible imprisonment for up to two years.
Levelling the Playing Field
Government has positioned the move as a way to level the playing field between traditional taxi operators and e-hailing platforms, while improving transparency, accountability, and safety standards across the public transport sector.
By formalising the industry, authorities believe the change will create a more reliable and regulated environment for commuters, and provide fair competition within South Africa’s evolving transport landscape.
