A professional driving permit (PrDP) is needed to drive public transport and heavy duty vehicles, for example taxis, buses and breakdown vehicles. There are some exceptions though, as you won’t need a PrDP to drive a hearse or a tractor.
Before it was called a PrDP, a professional driving permit was originally called a public drivers permit (PDP) which was issued to drivers before 1998.
If you drive any of these vehicles, you’ll need a valid professional driving permit:
- Goods vehicles, (more than 3 500 kg).
- Breakdown vehicles.
- Buses (any bus).
- Minibus taxis (more than 3 500 kg), transporting 12 or more people, including the driver.
- Vehicles used to transport people for payment.
- Goods vehicle carrying dangerous goods (more than 3 500 kg).
- Road tank vehicles for petroleum-based flammable liquids.
- Motor vehicles transporting 12 or more people, including the driver.
If you own the motor vehicle for which a professional driving permit is required, you may not let another person drive that vehicle on a public road. But if the other person has a professional driving permit of the appropriate category, you can let them drive.
You can only get a professional driving permit if:
- you have a valid driver’s licence for the type of vehicle you’re applying for,
- you’re over the required age limit (this depends on the type of vehicle in question),
- you’re certified by a doctor to be medically fit,
- certified by an approved training body (only required for certain types of vehicles),
- you haven’t been convicted of driving under the influence; reckless driving or of any crime, and
- your driver’s licence isn’t suspended or cancelled.
Your professional driving permit may be suspended or cancelled if you become medically unfit or if you’re convicted of driving under the influence, of reckless or negligent driving, or of a criminal offence.
You’ll need the following to apply for a PrDP:
- your ID,
- 2 photographs (ID size),
- your driver’s licence, and
- criminal record police clearance certificate.
For more information, contact the Transport Administration and Licensing helpdesk at Western Cape Department of Transport and Public Works.
How much does it cost to renew PDP in South Africa?
Cost To Renew A PDP Licence
In terms of the cost, the issuance of a PrDP involves the application fee (R96. 00) and the Issue fee (R204. 00).
What do I need to renew my PDP?
Yes in terms of a renewal of a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP), the applicant has to go for a medical assessment, eye test and have their fingerprints taken. The Application for Professional Driving Permit (Form PD1) is the form that needs to be completed.
How do I renew my PDP online in South Africa?
All Gauteng residents should apply online for the renewal, bookings can be done at online.natis.gov.za, while a separate page also enables customers to download the required application forms. Gauteng motorists can book for the renewal of a driver’s licence, or apply for a professional driving permit (PDP).