Uber and Bolt could soon find themselves on the wrong side of the law in South Africa. The National Land Transport Amendment Act demands that e-hailing platforms register with the National Public Transport Regulator (NPTR). This forms part of stricter rules introduced to regulate the booming sector.

The regulations took effect in September 2025. They require operators to display proper vehicle branding, install panic buttons and secure licences for drivers and platforms alike. The government granted a 180-day compliance window for drivers to convert existing permits. That deadline falls on 11 March 2026 – just weeks away.

Media reports confirm that none of the major platforms, including Uber and Bolt, has completed the registration process. Without a registered app, drivers cannot apply for or convert to e-hailing operating licences at provincial level.

Uber Bolt Licence Rules Target Safety and Fair Competition

These changes mark the first time e-hailing services gain formal recognition as public transport in South Africa. The Department of Transport introduced the rules to improve passenger and driver safety while easing long-standing friction with the traditional taxi industry.

Drivers now need a dedicated e-hailing operating licence, which costs R5,000 and lasts seven years. Platforms must register their apps with the NPTR to enable this process. The move comes amid growing calls for better oversight in the sector, which employs thousands across the country.

“Without a registered app, no operator will be able to convert to an e-hailing operating licence or apply for a new e-hailing operating licence,”

said Collen Msibi, Department of Transport spokesperson.

“This means after 180 days, those who have not converted will automatically become illegal operators.”

Platforms Stay Quiet as Uber Bolt Licence Deadline Approaches

The Department of Transport has pushed for full compliance. Officials note that platforms and drivers received ample time to prepare. Some industry voices have called for a short extension to handle backlogs in licence processing.