How much e-hailing drivers in South Africa earn
This is how much Uber and Bolt drivers in South Africa earn.
E-hailing services have forever changed the way South Africans, and the world, travel, offering a quick and efficient way of getting from point A to point B.
In South Africa, the most popular e-hailing companies are Uber and Bolt, but more and more of these services have started appearing.
Unfortunately, these app-based taxi services often make the news in South Africa, not always for the best reasons.
Whether it is the mounting taxi violence against e-hailing drivers, safety concerns for both drivers and riders, or unlicenced drivers and services, there always seems to be an issue.
READ: Major changes coming to Uber and Bolt in SA
With that in mind, have you ever wondered how much Uber and Bolt drivers in South Africa actually earn?
Based on online reports from the job search platform Indeed, as well as feedback from former and current Bolt and Uber drivers, drivers can earn anywhere between R10,000 and R20,000 on average.
However, it is difficult to say exactly how much Bolt and Uber drivers earn, as earnings depend on how often and where you drive.
"The money you make with Uber depends on when, where, and how often you drive," says the official Uber website.
According to TopAuto, Bolt and Uber drivers have reported earning less than the SARS-recommended allowance for employees using their cars for work purposes.
During the July 2025 strikes, drivers for both companies claimed that the platforms had increased the commissions they take for rides from around 25% to as much as 50%.
These claims, however, were denied by both e-hailing companies.
READ: Famous car brand to retrench almost 500 employees in SA
Many Uber and Bolt drivers have been reluctant to share their earnings, but amid growing unhappiness about payment, more drivers have started to speak out.
One Uber driver shared that they earned R334.34 after Uber's commission and taxes on a R554.34 trip in an unspecified area.
Of this amount, R28.69 (5.2%) was deducted for taxes, and the remaining R191.32 was Uber's commission.
This indicates that the platform took a 34% share, far higher than the official figure of 25%.
Based on data analysis shared by TopAuto, it is estimated that drivers earn around R4 per kilometre.
However, these figures do not take into account additional expenses such as fuel, wear and tear, replacing tyres, and servicing cars.
Tips to stay safe during an e-hailing ride
1. Confirm your ride details
Before entering the vehicle, ensure the licence plate, driver’s photo, and car make and model match what’s displayed in your app.
2. Let someone know
Share your trip details, driver’s name, photo, licence plate, and route with a trusted friend or family member.
3. Choose a safe pickup location
If the area feels unsafe or poorly lit, move to a busier or better-lit spot to wait for your ride.
4. During the ride:
- Ride in the back seat
This provides more personal space and flexibility in case of an emergency. - Wear your seatbelt
Buckle up for your safety throughout the journey. - Stay alert
Monitor your route using your own map app to ensure you're on the correct path. - Be friendly but cautious
Engage in polite conversation, but avoid sharing sensitive or personal information. - Trust your instincts
If something feels wrong, use the app’s emergency button or ask to end the trip in a safe location. - Record if necessary
If you feel unsafe or experience harassment, consider using the app’s audio recording feature.
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