Tips & Advice

What Is a PrDP and How Do I Get One? Complete Guide for South Africa

Posted on by Ben

If you drive a truck, bus, minibus taxi or any vehicle that carries passengers or dangerous goods for reward, you are legally required to have a Professional Driver’s Permit (PrDP). This guide explains everything you need to know about the PrDP in South Africa.

What Is a PrDP?

A Professional Driver’s Permit (PrDP) is an additional permit required by South African law for drivers who:

  • Transport passengers for reward (taxi drivers, bus drivers, shuttle drivers)
  • Transport dangerous goods (fuel tankers, chemical transporters)
  • Drive heavy motor vehicles (trucks, buses) for reward

The PrDP is governed by the National Road Traffic Act and is issued by the traffic department. Without it, professional drivers face heavy fines and their vehicles can be impounded.

Who Needs a PrDP?

You need a PrDP if you drive any of the following for payment or reward:

  • Minibus taxis (Code 10 or 14 vehicles)
  • Buses and coaches
  • Metered taxis and e-hailing vehicles (Uber, Bolt)
  • School transport vehicles
  • Trucks carrying dangerous goods
  • Any motor vehicle carrying more than 12 passengers

PrDP Categories

There are three types of PrDP:

  • PrDP-P – Passengers (buses, taxis, shuttles)
  • PrDP-D – Dangerous goods (fuel, chemicals)
  • PrDP-G – Goods vehicles (trucks)

You can hold more than one type of PrDP simultaneously.

Requirements for a PrDP

To apply for a PrDP you must:

  • Hold a valid South African driver’s licence for the appropriate code
  • Be at least 25 years old (for PrDP-P carrying passengers)
  • Pass a medical fitness test (eyesight, hearing, general health)
  • Have no conviction for certain serious driving offences within the past 5 years
  • Complete a PrDP training course with an accredited training provider

How Long Does It Take to Get a PrDP?

The process typically takes 2–4 weeks from start to finish, depending on how quickly you can complete the training and how busy the traffic department is. The steps are:

  1. Complete your PrDP training course (1–2 days)
  2. Pass your medical examination
  3. Submit your application at the traffic department with all required documents
  4. Receive your PrDP certificate

Documents Required for PrDP Application

  • Completed application form (DP-1)
  • Your original driver’s licence card
  • Your green ID book or smart ID card
  • Medical certificate (not older than 3 months)
  • PrDP training certificate from an accredited provider
  • Two passport-size photographs
  • Proof of residential address (not older than 3 months)

How Much Does a PrDP Cost?

The government application fee is approximately R140–R200. In addition, you will need to budget for your medical examination (approximately R200–R400) and your training course. At Driving R Us, we offer competitive PrDP training fees – contact us for current pricing.

How Long Is a PrDP Valid?

A PrDP is valid for 2 years. You must renew it before it expires or you will need to go through the full application process again. We recommend starting your renewal process at least 3 months before your PrDP expires.

PrDP Training at Driving R Us

Driving R Us is an accredited PrDP training provider in Pretoria. We offer:

  • Full PrDP training course covering all required content
  • Assistance with documentation
  • Training at our Pretoria Moot and Centurion locations
  • Flexible scheduling to fit around your work commitments

Call us on 012 403 0642 or 082 895 6503 to book your PrDP training or find out more about our PrDP service.

Frequently Asked Questions About the PrDP

Can I drive an Uber or Bolt without a PrDP?

Yes, you technically need a PrDP-P to carry passengers for reward with e-hailing services. However, enforcement varies. It is always better to be compliant to avoid fines and vehicle impoundment.

Do I need a Code 14 licence to get a PrDP?

No – it depends on the vehicle you drive. You need the correct licence code for the vehicle category, then the PrDP on top of that. For example, a minibus taxi driver needs a Code 10 licence and a PrDP-P.

What happens if I drive without a PrDP?

Driving a professional vehicle without a valid PrDP is a criminal offence under the National Road Traffic Act. You face a fine, your vehicle may be impounded, and you could receive a criminal record.

Ben