If you drive for an e-hailing app in Gauteng, you need an operating licence. Many drivers find the process confusing. This guide explains it in plain language.
Rules and fees can change. Always check with the Gauteng Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) before you apply.
What is an operating licence?
An operating licence is permission from government to use a car to carry paying passengers. It is linked to the car, not only to you. If you drive two cars, each one needs its own licence.
The licence also says where you may pick people up. You can take a passenger to another city. But you must go back to your own area before you accept new pickups there.
Why do I need one now?
The amended National Land Transport Act made e-hailing part of public transport in South Africa. In September 2025, new regulations set out the details, according to Bowmans on Bizcommunity.
Drivers without the right licence can face fines, and cars can be impounded. Platforms must also make sure only licensed drivers use their apps.
What is new in Gauteng in 2026?
Two things:
- GIPTAS registration. In August 2026, Gauteng started asking e-hailing drivers to register on the Gauteng Integrated Public Transport Administration System (GIPTAS), Briefly News reported. You will need your ID, PrDP, car registration papers and operating licence. If you do not have a 13-digit SA ID number, you can use a Traffic Register Number (TRN).
- Online applications. In October 2026, Gauteng launched a digital system for operating licence applications to help clear the backlog, TopAuto reported.
Documents you will usually need
Based on Bolt's guide to the process, most applications ask for:
- Form 1B, filled in fully and signed.
- A certified copy of your ID, passport or work permit (less than three months old).
- A SARS tax compliance PIN.
- A signed labour law compliance declaration.
- Car details: registration number, VIN, make, model, year and number of seats.
- Proof of address (less than three months old).
- If the car is not in your name: a letter from the owner and a certified copy of their ID.
- An affiliation letter from the e-hailing app you drive for.
Some offices also ask for a police clearance, a roadworthy certificate, or proof of your panic button and branding.
Step by step
- Get your documents together and make certified copies.
- Fill in Form 1B carefully. Mistakes cause delays.
- Make a full copy of your application for yourself.
- Submit it to the PRE, in person or through the new online system.
- Pay the application fee for each car.
- Get a reference number or proof that you submitted.
- Wait for approval. It often takes about 60 to 90 days, sometimes longer.
- Finish the car requirements in your approval letter, like the panic button, branding and inspection, before the deadline.
- Collect your licence.
If you are turned down, your letter will tell you how to appeal to the Transport Appeal Tribunal and by when.
What does it cost?
Rough costs per car, from Bolt's guide:
| Item | Rough cost |
|---|---|
| Application fee | About R600 |
| Copies and certification | R50 to R150 |
| Panic button install | R500 to R1,500 |
| Panic button tracking | R100 to R350 a month |
| Roadworthy certificate | R500 to R800 |
| PrDP renewal (every 2 years) | R600 to R1,200 |
These are estimates. Call your PRE office to confirm.
Tips to make it easier
- Start early. Backlogs are real.
- Check every page of Form 1B before you hand it in.
- Keep copies of everything, and keep your reference number safe.
- Ask your app for the affiliation letter early, as you need it for the application.
Driving with Loop and need help with paperwork from our side? Contact us and tell us what you need. Ready to drive? See how to drive with Loop. New to it all? Start with our guide on how to become an e-hailing driver.
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