How to Apply to Drive Uber & Bolt in South Africa
December 13, 2025 • 5 min read
💡 What Does It Mean to Drive for Uber or Bolt?
Uber and Bolt are ride-hailing platforms that connect drivers with passengers through a mobile app.
As a driver, you earn money by:
- Accepting ride requests
- Transporting passengers safely
- Getting paid weekly
You can drive full-time or part-time.
🇿🇦 Can South Africans Apply to Drive Uber or Bolt?
Yes. Both Uber and Bolt operate in major South African cities, including:
- Johannesburg
- Pretoria
- Cape Town
- Durban
- Gqeberha
You must meet the minimum requirements below.
📋 Requirements to Drive Uber or Bolt in South Africa
👤 Driver Requirements
- Be 18 years or older
- Valid South African ID or work permit
- Valid driver’s licence (Code B or higher)
- Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)
- Clean criminal record
🚘 Vehicle Requirements
- 4-door vehicle
- Good working condition
- Roadworthy certificate
- Vehicle registration papers
Vehicle age requirements depend on the city and service type.
🪪 What Is a PrDP and Why Is It Required?
A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is legally required to transport passengers for money in South Africa.
You must apply for a PrDP at your nearest Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC).
Processing time: 4–8 weeks.
📝 Documents You Need to Apply
- South African ID or passport
- Valid driver’s licence
- PrDP
- Vehicle registration documents
- Roadworthy certificate
- Police clearance
- Bank account details
📲 How to Apply to Drive Uber in South Africa
Follow these steps to apply:
- Create a driver account
- Upload required documents
- Complete background checks
- Wait for approval
📲 How to Apply to Drive Bolt in South Africa
Applying to Bolt is similar and often faster.
- Register as a Bolt driver
- Upload documents
- Get vehicle inspection
- Start driving once approved
💰 How Much Do Uber & Bolt Drivers Earn?
Earnings depend on city, hours worked, and demand.
- Part-time drivers: R3,000 – R6,000 per week
- Full-time drivers: R8,000 – R15,000+ per week
Payouts are usually weekly.
⚠️ Common Mistakes New Drivers Make
- Applying without a PrDP
- Using an unroadworthy vehicle
- Not understanding commission fees
- Poor customer service
🔥 Is Driving Uber or Bolt Worth It in South Africa?
Yes — if you treat it like a business.
Uber and Bolt driving is ideal for:
- Unemployed individuals
- People needing flexible income
- Drivers with access to a vehicle
With good planning and discipline, many South Africans earn a steady income.