South Africa’s transport department has gazetted long-awaited amendments to the National Land Transport Act, effective Friday, September 12, 2025, formally recognising e-hailing services like Uber and Bolt as part of the country’s public transport system.
Why it matters
For years, e-hailing has operated in a legal grey zone, sparking friction with metered and minibus taxi operators. The law closes loopholes but also places new compliance burdens on ride-hailing drivers and companies.
Key changes:
- Operating licenses required: All e-hailing drivers must now obtain licenses, processed through Provincial Regulatory Entity offices.
- Vehicle requirements: Cars must display branding or signage of their company and be fitted with commuter panic buttons for safety.
- Compliance checks: Commuters are urged to verify driver and vehicle details in-app before boarding.
- Heavy penalties: App developers face fines of up to R100,000 or two years in jail if unlicensed drivers operate on their platforms.
- Corporate compliance: E-hailing companies must register with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the South African Revenue Service.
Operating area rules:
- Licenses specify a driver’s jurisdiction.
- Drivers can drop passengers outside their licensed zone but cannot pick up new riders there.
- Example: A Gauteng-based driver may drop a rider in Limpopo but must return empty.
The big picture:
- Uber and Bolt dominate South Africa’s e-hailing market.
- Taxi associations have long pressured the government for regulation.
- The changes could ease tensions, but concerns remain over vehicle quality, safety, and customer service.
What they’re saying:
- The department: “This will ensure that services remain authorised and safe.”
- Wayne Duvenage, Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse: “High-volume, low-margin turnover has resulted in tired vehicles and a less customer-centric experience.”
What’s next
The transport department will host workshops with operators and officials nationwide next week to explain compliance requirements.
Source: MyBroadband
