PDP Requirements In South Africa

A professional driving permit (PDP) 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. 

How much does it cost to get a PDP in South Africa?

If the forms have been returned by the police station, the applicant needs a valid identity document, a certified copy of his/her ID, 4 passport size photographs and the prescribed fee for the issue of the PRDP, which is currently R150. 00. Also important to note is that applicants need to provide proof of residence.

How much does it cost to renew PDP in South Africa?

The Medical Certificate (Form MC) will have to be completed by a medical professional. The requirements stipulated for the issuing of a PrDP remain applicable. In terms of the cost, the issuance of a PrDP involves the application fee (R96. 00) and the Issue fee (R204.