What the new e-hailing regulations in SA mean for drivers
The new regulations will only allow drivers to operate within their designated areas.
On Friday, 12 September, the Department of Transport gazetted the National Land Transport Amendment Act, which introduces important new regulations for e-hailing drivers in South Africa.
According to TimesLive, the National Land Transport Amendment Act officially recognises on-demand services like Uber and Bolt as part of the country’s public transport system.
The new regulations were also implemented to address ongoing issues surrounding e-hailing services. They aim to improve safety, enhance service quality, and reduce future conflict between e-hailing drivers and the taxi industry.
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Department of Transport spokesperson Collen Msibi outlined additional requirements that e-hailing services will need to meet, including:
1. Obtaining official operating licences
Drivers will require an official operating licence, which will be processed by the Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE). The PRE will also check for compliance before any licence is granted.
2. Mandatory branding of vehicles
E-hailing vehicles will be required to display clear branding and signage to show they are part of the e-hailing system.
3. Compulsory installation of panic buttons
Panic buttons will now be compulsory in all e-hailing vehicles to improve passenger safety.
4. Operating within jurisdiction
Drivers will also be required to stick to their designated jurisdiction.
"The biggest issue in terms of regulation is about where they are supposed to be operating. For instance, if a driver picks up a client in Limpopo, they must drop them off there and then return to their jurisdiction," said Msibi.
"They cannot wait around to pick up another passenger and roam outside their area. The jurisdiction will be decided by the provincial regulator based on the application. This is to protect local operators from destructive competition."
Msibi added that drivers who currently operate under charter permits or metered taxi licences will need to convert to the new e-hailing operating licences.
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"What it means is that they would have to convert their current charter permits and metered operating permits into e-hailing operating licences. That's basically what it means.
"For provinces like KwaZulu-Natal, which never had any interim dispensation, it means starting afresh because they didn’t have permits. Others will simply need to convert."
Companies could face fines of up to R100,000 or two years in jail if they allow drivers on their platforms to operate without the proper licensing.
Riders should also ensure they carry the necessary documents to prove compliance.
"App companies must also comply with company laws under the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and with SARS," Msibi added.
Tips to stay safe during an e-hailing ride
Msibi urged commuters to always check that the vehicle and driver information matches the details on the app. Under the new regulations, riders are also advised to confirm that both the vehicle and driver are registered under the new laws before riding.
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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