Last Updated on October 30, 2024 by Elidge Staff

How to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa

In this guide, we will tell you about professional driving permit in South Africa. Driving on the roads in South Africa requires certain legal permits, especially if you are involved in transporting goods, dangerous goods, or passengers for income. A professional driving permit in South Africa (PrDP) is an additional permit required alongside an ordinary driving license. This blog post will guide you through the process of obtaining a PrDP in South Africa, including the requirements, application steps, and necessary forms.

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What is a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa (PrDP)?

A professional driving permit (PrDP) is a legal requirement for individuals who operate certain categories of motor vehicles for a living in South Africa. It ensures that drivers are qualified and medically fit to carry out their responsibilities safely. The PrDP is necessary for the following motor vehicle categories:

• Goods vehicles weighing over 3,500kg
• Breakdown vehicles or buses
• Minibuses weighing over 3,500kg or designed to carry 12 or more people (including the driver)
• Light motor vehicles indicated for carrying passengers for reward (taxi-cab)
• Vehicles designed to carry 12 or more people
• Vehicles requiring an operating license
• Dangerous goods vehicles (e.g., fuel tankers)

Eligibility Criteria for Applying for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

To apply for a PrDP in South Africa, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Valid Driving License: You must possess a valid driving license for the specific type of vehicle you intend to operate.
2. Medical Fitness: You need to obtain a medical certificate from an approved healthcare professional certifying that you are physically fit to operate the vehicle.
3. Approved Training: If you plan to operate category D (dangerous goods) vehicles, you must be certified by an approved training body.
4. Clean Driving Record: You must have a clean driving record, meaning no convictions or suspensions, particularly related to driving under the influence or violent offenses.
5. No Criminal Offenses: You should not have a criminal record or have paid admission-of-guilt fines in the past.

Application Process to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

To apply for a PrDP in South Africa, follow these steps:

1. Visit the Nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC):

Go to your nearest DLTC and complete the Application for Professional Driving Permit form (PD1). Alternatively, if you reside in Gauteng, you can apply online through the Gauteng Online portal.

2. Gather the Required Documents to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

Make sure to bring the following documents with you to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

• Identity document (ID), driving license card, or valid South African passport
• Four black-and-white photographs (confirm the number required by the DLTC)
• Valid driving license for the vehicle type you are applying for
• Training certificate (if applicable)
• Medical certificate (valid if not older than two months)
• Any other professional or public driving permit you hold
• Proof of postal and residential address (e.g., utility account)
• Letter from the ward councillor confirming your address (if staying at an informal settlement)
• The prescribed fee

3. Eye Test:

At the DLTC, you will undergo an eye test. Alternatively, you can have the test performed by a qualified optometrist and submit the form.

4. Conviction Report:

After payment, you will be referred to the nearest police station to request a conviction report. If the DLTC has a live capturing unit (LCU), the report will be sent electronically to the police station.

5. Deposit the Application Fee to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

Before processing your application, you must deposit the application fee into the provided bank account. The details are as follows:

• Account name: Ideco AFISwitch (Pty) Ltd
• Bank: ABSA
• Branch: Business Banking Johannesburg North
• Account Type: Cheque
• Account number: 4074078548
• Branch code: 630256
• Reference: Fill in the applicant’s ID number as the reference

6. Card Collection:

Once your PrDP card is ready for collection, you will be notified. Make sure to bring identification, such as an ID, when collecting the card. All uncollected cards will be destroyed after 120 days.

Processing Time and Cost to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

The processing time for a PrDP application can take up to 12 weeks. However, it may vary depending on the DLTC and other factors. The exact cost of obtaining a PrDP differs across different municipalities. It is advisable to contact your local licensing office for accurate information regarding the cost.

Required Forms to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

During the PrDP application process, you will need to complete the following forms:

• Application for Professional Driving Permit form (PD1)
• Medical certificate application form (MC)

These forms are available at your nearest driving licence testing centre or can be downloaded from the eNatis website.

Contact Information:

If you have any further questions or need assistance, it is advisable to contact the relevant municipality or your local licensing office for guidance.

Obtaining a professional driving permit (PrDP) in South Africa is essential for individuals involved in commercial driving. By following the steps outlined in this guide and ensuring you meet the eligibility requirements, you can successfully apply for a PrDP. Remember to gather all the necessary documentation, complete the required forms, and comply with the regulations. Safe driving and adherence to legal requirements contribute to a better and more secure road network in South Africa.

Note: The information provided in this blog post may be subject to change. It is advisable to consult official government sources or relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.

Frequently Asked Questions about Professional Driving Permit in South Africa

Q: What is a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) in South Africa?
A: A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is an additional permit required alongside an ordinary driving license for individuals who operate certain categories of motor vehicles for a living in South Africa. It ensures that drivers are qualified and medically fit to carry out their responsibilities safely.

Q: What types of vehicles require a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa?
A: The following types of vehicles require a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) in South Africa:

• Goods vehicles weighing over 3,500kg
• Breakdown vehicles or buses
• Minibuses weighing over 3,500kg or designed to carry 12 or more people
• Light motor vehicles indicated for carrying passengers for reward (taxi-cab)
• Vehicles designed to carry 12 or more people
• Vehicles requiring an operating license
• Dangerous goods vehicles (e.g., fuel tankers)

Q: What are the eligibility criteria to apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa?
A: To apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa, you need to meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Valid Driving License
2. Medical Fitness
3. Approved Training (if applicable)
4. Clean Driving Record
5. No Criminal Offenses

Q: How can I apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa?
A: Here is the application process to apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa:

1. Visit the nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC) or apply online.
2. Gather the required documents.
3. Undergo an eye test.
4. Request a conviction report from the nearest police station.
5. Deposit the application fee into the provided bank account.
6. Collect your PrDP card once it is ready.

Q: How long does it take to process a Professional Driving Permit application in South Africa?
A: The processing time for a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) application can take up to 12 weeks. However, it may vary depending on the DLTC and other factors.

Q: What are the required forms to apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa?
A: During the Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) application process, you will need to complete the following forms:

• Application for Professional Driving Permit form (PD1)
• Medical certificate application form (MC)

Q: Where can I find more information or get assistance regarding Professional Driving Permit applications in South Africa?
A: For more information or assistance, it is advisable to contact the relevant municipality or your local licensing office. They will provide guidance and answer any further questions you may have.

Note: The information provided in these FAQs may be subject to change. It is advisable to consult official government sources or relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information.

If you have more questions, look through our blog for answers!