MEDIA QUERY ON PRIVATE SCHOLAR TRANSPORT OPERATORS
1. Types of Vehicles Allowed to Transport Scholars for Reward
The following vehicle types are legally permitted to transport learners for reward:
| Vehicle Type | Definition and Seating Capacity |
|---|---|
| Bus | Motor vehicle designed or modified to carry more than 35 persons, including the driver. |
| Midi-Bus | Motor vehicle designed to carry more than 16 but not more than 35 persons, including the driver. |
| Mini-Bus | Motor vehicle designed to carry more than 9 but not more than 16 seated persons, including the driver. |
| Motor Car | Motor vehicle designed to carry not more than 9 persons, including the driver. |
2. Is a PrDP Alone Sufficient?
No. A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) alone is not sufficient.
The driver must hold:
- A valid Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)
- A valid Operating Licence
Difference:
- The PrDP qualifies the driver to operate a public transport vehicle.
- The Operating Licence grants permission to transport learners for reward on a specific route and designated times.
3. Steps to Apply for a Scholar Transport Operating Licence
- Application submitted personally to PRE Helpdesk for capturing.
- Verification process (SARS Tax compliance, SAPS 69 criminal record check). Registered on OLAS or NLTIS if compliant.
- PRE notifies Planning Authorities / Municipalities.
- Application published in Government Gazette for objections.
- PRE meets for hearing/adjudication.
- PRE takes a decision.
- If approved, operating licence granted and vehicle documents requested.
- (Optional) Operator may appeal to the Transport Appeal Tribunal (TAT).
Requirements for Scholar Transport Operating Licence
- Certified copy of ID / CK (for companies)
- Valid SARS Tax Clearance Certificate
- Clear route description (pickup & drop-off points)
- Timetable
- Signed list of learners (prescribed format)
- Application fee of R627.66 (subject to change)
- Completed Form 1B
- Vehicle registration certificate & certificate of fitness
- No criminal record relating to public transport operations
4. Exemptions for Remote Areas
There are currently no regulations providing exemptions or special provisions for remote or underserved areas.
5. Public Compliance Verification
There is no public database available. Parents are advised to request the following:
- Original valid Scholar Transport Operating Licence
- Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)
- Recent Roadworthy Certificate (not older than 3 months)
- For buses: roadworthy test every six (6) months
6. Department Support for Operators
The Department will soon conduct a roadshow in all districts to educate scholar transport operators on compliance and licensing requirements.
DOWNLOAD APPLICATION FORM FOR OPERATING LICENCE NEW LOGO FORM 1B:
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