SEDIBENG.- More than 500 scholar transport operators gathered at the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport’s head office in Johannesburg on Monday to discuss the challenges surrounding the issuing of scholar transport operating licences.

The meeting aimed to resolve confusion regarding the laws for transporting children.

Many drivers have struggled to get the correct paperwork.

Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, the MEC for Transport, told the crowd that the safety of learners is “non-negotiable.”

While the department is happy to help drivers get permits,  Diale-Tlabela said that they will not overlook vehicles that are unsafe or documents that are missing.

“If you cannot meet the minimum legal requirements to safely transport learners, you have no business operating.”

She further cautioned against disruptions and shutdowns led by non-compliant operators.

“As a provincial government, we will not condone disruptions, shutdowns, or intimidation aimed at forcing the department to overlook issues related to non-compliance. The law will be enforced without fear or favour,” added Diale-Tlabela.

To help operators get started, the department issued over 1 000 application forms on the day. Under the National Land Traffic Act, any driver charging a fee to transport people must have a valid operating licence.

Required documentation for Scholar Transport Operating Licence applications:

• Copy of the contract (for purposes of contracted services)
• Certified Copy ID and a valid driving licence (PrDP)
• Valid Police Clearance certificate
• Proof that the vehicle is roadworthy and registered
• Original Tax compliance status (SARS)
• Proof of residential address
• Recommendation letter from a school with original signature and school stamp
• List of learners with parents/guardian contact details
• Proof of insurance, including insurance indemnity cover
• Route description
• Should a CK/Business be used, attach ID copies of directors, and all documents must reflect the CK details (eg SARS documentation)

Applications must be submitted, in person, to the TOLAB offices. The cost for each application is R600. Offices include:

• Tshwane TOLAB – 230 Lilian Ngoyi Street, Pretoria Central
• Johannesburg TOLAB – 45 Commissioner Street, Marshalltown, JHB
• Ekurhuleni TOLAB – 1 Hardach Street, Germiston, Ekurhuleni
• West Rand TOLAB – Kagiso Drive and Mmusi Street, Kagiso
• Sedibeng TOLAB – 45 Commissioner Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg

The department is calling on guardians, parents, and community members to report any reckless driving or unsafe scholar transport vehicles to the Gauteng Traffic Inspectorate on 0800 428 8364.