E-hailing drivers across South Africa have been given 180 days to comply with the new regulations introduced under the National Land Transport Amendment Act, which officially brings e-hailing into the country’s public transport regulatory framework.

The announcement was made during a workshop hosted by Bolt South Africa in partnership with the National Department of Transport and the Gauteng Provincial Regulatory Entity in Douglasdale, marking the first engagement of its kind between the company and government officials since the new law was signed into effect.

Read more: E-hailing apps risk R100 000 fine or jail if drivers operate without compliance

The amended Act, signed into law, aims to formalise e-hailing operations and ensure that digital ride-hailing platforms such as Bolt, Uber and inDrive operate under the same standards as other public transport services.

“You have six months to make sure that you comply with the new regulations,” said Muzi Simelani, the director of the national department of transport. “We know that South Africans tend to do things at the last minute, but we have given you more than enough time to gather everything you need to comply with the new regulations. Please make sure you comply, because failure to do so will mean you cease to operate.”

Simelani added, “We have a dedicated team processing all applications. If any documents are outstanding, you will be notified, but drivers must take responsibility to meet the deadline.”

Under the new regulations, e-hailing operators and drivers are required to obtain operating licences specific to e-hailing services, undergo background checks, and ensure their vehicles meet safety requirements.

As part of additional safety measures, Simelani also urged e-hailing drivers to ensure their SIM cards are RICA-registered and linked to their correct personal details.

Also read: E-hailing safety tips

“Drivers must not use SIM cards bought informally or on the streets. Every e-hailing driver must use a RICA-registered SIM card. This makes it possible to trace and verify a driver’s identity if anything happens during a trip.”

Key requirements among the major changes introduced by the Act are:

• Drivers must apply for an e-hailing operating licence through provincial regulatory entities.
• Each vehicle must carry visible e-hailing signage or branding.
• Vehicles must be fitted with a panic button or emergency alert system.
• Drivers must possess a valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP) and pass criminal background checks.
• E-hailing platforms must register with authorities and will be held accountable for ensuring that only licensed drivers operate on their apps.
• Non-compliance could result in apps being fined up to R100 000 or imprisonment for up to two years for drivers.

The department said the introduction of these measures is aimed at improving passenger safety, promoting fair competition, and reducing conflicts between e-hailing drivers and traditional taxi operators.

Follow us on our Whatsapp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok for the latest updates!