E-hailing drivers and operators who failed to meet South Africa’s new transport regulations risk fine and car impoundments
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The Department of Transport has issued a stern warning to e-hailing drivers and operators who have failed to comply with South Africa’s new transport regulations, saying those who missed the March 11, deadline now face fines, enforcement action, and possible vehicle impoundment.
Drivers were given a 180-day compliance period under the National Land Transport Amendment Act, which requires operating licenses, vehicle branding, panic buttons, and that they only use platforms registered with the National Public Transport Regulator (NPTR).
Department of Transport spokesperson Collen Msibi told IOL that authorities are now prepared to enforce the new rules.
However, many drivers have yet to brand their cars or install the required safety features.
"In the main, the compliance requirements will be embedded in the OL conditions. This is a mechanism under which compliance will be monitored. Thus, complete non-compliance will have serious consequences to drivers like impoundments and/or fines," Msibi said.
Msibi also said that platforms allowing unlicensed drivers to operate risk fines of up to R100,000 or deactivation.
"The regulatory entities, with the assistance of the Law Enforcement Agencies, where it is necessary, will conduct inspections and/or audits during pre- and post-OL applications".
"Also, frequent assess and reviews will be conducted to understand the full status of implementation of the Second National Land Transport Regulations, 2025, especially focusing in hotspot areas such as the e-hailing services industry. This is with an understanding that the e-hailing services is a new public transport service type for everyone.
"Therefore, a lot of lessons will be learned during the implementation stage which will help to improve the regulatory framework for the betterment of all affected stakeholders more as specially the passengers".
He stressed that the department has a zero-tolerance policy for non-compliance, and drivers who fail to meet the requirements could have their vehicles impounded and face fines.
"The Department operates on a principle of zero tolerance for non-compliance. Additionally, the Department will operate at arm’s length on the relationship between the operator and the platform providers. The Provincial Regulatory Entity will monitor compliance at provincial level and work with the Law enforcement where necessary to enforce the law".
Msibi also indicated that the department was looking at "possibilities and modalities to grant a further grace period beyond 180 days".
"At the appropriate time, an announcement will be made by the Minister".
IOL Business
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za