Parliament’s transport committee says e-hailing regulations South Africa will be prioritised under the National Land Transport Amendment (NLTA) Act. This aims to bring stronger oversight to services like Uber and Bolt. Chairperson Donald Selamolela linked the urgency to rising violence against drivers in Soweto and KwaZulu-Natal, as well as to last month’s Maponya Mall attack.
What the NLTA Will Change
Under the NLTA, drivers will no longer rely on charter or metered taxi permits. They will get a dedicated e-hailing operating licence that specifies the geographic areas where they may work. Vehicles must display an e-hailing sign. Drivers must hold a professional driving permit, pass criminal record checks, and keep their profile photo updated. They must also equip a panic button for emergencies. Regulators can suspend or withdraw licences if operators break the law.
Tough Penalties and a Safety Focus
Authorities want the new framework to reduce tensions with the taxi industry and protect riders and drivers. Breaches could bring up to two years in jail or fines of as much as R100,000. Officials say the rules, combined with clear vehicle branding and digital identity checks, will help credible operators stand out from impostors.
Timeline: October Targeted for Rollout
The NLTA was assented to in 2024 and is being translated into a second official language before gazetting. Selamolela said government expects implementation “within two months,” with October as the likely window—placing e-hailing regulations South Africa on track for near-term commencement.
Why it Matters for Commuters
Millions rely on taxis and e-hailing daily. Clear, enforceable standards for licensing, safety and accountability could calm flashpoints and keep services moving. If the October target holds, e-hailing regulations South Africa will set a stricter, safer baseline for the sector. This will be just ahead of the holiday travel period.
