The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has stepped up efforts to clear its operating licence backlog, launching a weekly handover drive to ensure compliant public transport operators receive their documents without further delay.

On Sunday, December 7, MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela issued more than 40 operating licences to approved operators at the Denlyn Smart Licensing Centre in Tshwane.

The department confirmed that additional handovers will take place tomorrow at its Johannesburg and Ekurhuleni regional offices.

The MEC said that while many operators have already collected their licences during recent sessions, a significant number remain uncollected despite approval notices and reminders being issued.

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“We have intensified our efforts to make operating licences available weekly. We now call on all approved operators to collect their licences without delay.The department cannot hold licences indefinitely, and operators risk cancellation if they fail to collect,” said Diale-Tlabela.

Operators who have received approval notifications, SMS reminders or communication through their associations are urged to attend the weekly Wednesday handover sessions.

The department further appealed to operators with outstanding vehicle information — including registration documents, roadworthy certificates or proof of ownership — to submit these urgently. Officials say incomplete documentation remains one of the major factors contributing to delays and prolonging the backlog.

Operators are encouraged to liaise with Provincial Regulatory Entity officials or visit their regional offices to finalise outstanding requirements