The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport has issued a pressing call to all public transport operators whose operating licenses have expired to take advantage of the department’s window of opportunity and renew their licenses before the impending deadline of 31st July 2023.
Despite identifying over six thousand (6000) expired operating licenses, the department has received and processed less than 500 renewal applications so far. To comply with Section 25 of the National Land Transport Regulations, operators are required to renew their operating licenses no later than 30 days before the expiry date.
The regulations stipulate that if the Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) has not issued a renewed Operating License by the expiry date, the existing license will remain valid as long as the operator can provide proof of application through a receipt issued by the PRE.
In light of this situation, the Department appeals to industry leaders to encourage affected members to respond promptly to the renewal call by submitting their applications and ensuring that the receipt and the expired Operating License remain attached.
Requirements for the Renewal of Operating License:
Completed Application Form: Operators must fill out the required application form for the renewal process.
Certified ID Copy/Company Registration Certificate (CC): Individuals must submit a certified copy of their ID, while companies should provide their Company Registration Certificate.
Letter of Appointment (For Company Submissions): Persons submitting applications on behalf of companies must include a letter of appointment.
Renewed Contract (Contracted Services): If the operator is involved in contracted services, they must provide a renewed contract.
Letter from Association (Minibus Taxi Mode): For Minibus Taxi mode operators, a letter from the relevant association must be submitted.
Original Tax Clearance Certificate (SARS): A valid Tax Clearance Certificate from SARS is required.
Original Operating License/Permit or Certified Copy + Affidavit: Operators must present their original operating license/permit or a certified copy along with an affidavit.
Certified Vehicle Certificate of Fitness & Roadworthy Certificate: A certified copy of the Vehicle Certificate of Fitness and Roadworthy Certificate is necessary.
Certified Copies of Vehicle Certificate of Registration (COR): Operators must provide certified copies of the Vehicle Certificate of Registration.
Fee of R300.00 per Vehicle (Cash or Bank Guaranteed Cheque): A fee of R300.00 per vehicle must be paid in cash or through a bank guaranteed cheque.
Submission Details:
Operators should submit the completed application form, along with the required documents listed above, through their respective associations before the end of July 2023.
Failure to renew operating licenses before the deadline could lead to severe penalties, including legal repercussions and potential suspension of operations, significantly impacting the public transport services.
The Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport emphasizes the importance of timely renewal, not only to comply with the regulations but also to ensure the safety and efficiency of public transportation in the province.
As the deadline approaches, it is vital for industry leaders and affected operators to work together in expediting the renewal process and minimizing disruptions to transportation services.
With this call for action, the Department aims to create a safer and more reliable public transportation network while ensuring that all operators meet the necessary legal requirements for operation.
For further information and support, operators are encouraged to contact their respective associations or reach out to the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport directly. Compliance with these regulations will contribute to a more sustainable and secure public transportation system, benefitting both operators and the commuting public alike.
