Taxi drivers in South Africa have a lot to consider in operating their vehicles. They have to ensure that they pass the stringent roadworthy tests and that their vehicle is maintained at all times so that it can be on the road. Recently we were told by one of our readers that he wants to become a taxi driver but was wondering how much it cost for him to get his taxi permit. Well, this is what we found out:
Where to get your taxi permit?
In South Africa, the Department of Roads issues taxi permits and Transport. The department issues taxi permits on a first-come, first-served basis. A check with the Department revealed that you can get your taxi permit for just R300 and that it is valid for seven years.
The vehicle must pass a rigorous roadworthy test before the department can license it as a taxi. According to Mr X from the Department: “We operate on a first come first serve basis—once we receive your application form and payment, we will process it as fast as possible”
What is the process of getting a taxi permit?
The department issues taxi permits in South Africa and is located in Pretoria. Applying for a taxi permit is fairly straightforward and can be done by following the steps listed below:
- Download your application form from their website (www.dirco.gov.za) or request one from them directly by email ([email protected]). Fill in all the details requested so they can register you as an applicant who wishes to invest in this business venture;
- Then get three copies of your ID scanned onto your computer screen and attach them with your completed application form;
- Print out the documents that have been attached with your scanned ID copies and send them via courier service or registered mail back to DIRCO headquarters before the close of business hours on Friday 31 July 2019 at 17:00 pm;
Once you apply for a taxi permit, you must present the vehicle at the testing station so that it can undergo a rigorous roadworthy test. The applicant will pay for this test and then apply for a permit.
Once the vehicle has passed its test, the department will then proceed in issuing your taxi permit which costs just R300 and is valid for seven years.
To obtain a taxi permit, you must first apply for one. To do so, you will need to provide:
- The vehicle’s registration documents and a copy of your ID
- A copy of your driver’s licence
When to get your taxi permit?
If you’re looking to get your taxi permit, don’t wait too long before applying. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will be. If you don’t apply as soon as you can, then it may be too late and your opportunity to own a taxi permit will pass by forever.
Conclusion
You can get your taxi permit for just R300, and it is valid for seven years. Just make sure that you apply early enough so that you don’t miss out on this opportunity of owning a taxi.
