On September 12, 2025, South Africa's new law, regulating Uber and Bolt drivers, comes into effect requiring e-hailing licenses.
What the law means for drivers
The new law requires all Uber and Bolt drivers to obtain official licenses indicating where they can operate. Each vehicle will display a visible marker showing that it is authorized for e-hailing services. To qualify for the license, drivers must meet several requirements:
- A professional driving license issued by the authorities. - A criminal background check prior to approval. An ID matching profile picture must be uploaded to the platform at all times. - An operational panic button in the vehicle in case of emergencies.
Failure to comply with these standards may result in fines of up to R100,000 or two-year prison terms for serious offenses.
Recognition of South Africa’s e-hailing industry
With the law now in effect, e-hailing services are officially integrated into South Africa's transport system. Uber and Bolt drivers will need to obtain licenses at municipal or provincial offices, facilitating monitoring and reducing conflicts with other operators. This legislation is seen as a way to stabilize the sector and alleviate tensions that have arisen between traditional taxi services and e-hailing drivers, especially in areas such as Soweto and KwaZulu-Natal.
The role of the new legislation in improving safety
The legislation aims to enhance passenger safety and increase accountability within the industry. By establishing clear standards, the government has created a unified framework for the management of e-hailing operators. Transport authorities and police will be authorized to check for proof of licenses on the roadside, while platforms will be required to ensure their drivers comply with all legal requirements. The new licensing system will also assist in mitigating risks by ensuring that only qualified drivers are on the road.
The licensing legislation for Uber and Bolt in South Africa marks an essential step towards legalizing and regulating the e-hailing industry, ensuring passenger safety and improving conditions for drivers.
