1. What is a PrDP (Professional Driving Permit) and why you may need it?
A PrDP stands for Professional Driving Permit. It is a special permit required in South Africa, for drivers who operate certain types of vehicles, especially those involved in transporting goods or passengers for commercial purposes.
There are different categories of PrDPs, depending on the type of vehicle and the nature of its use:
- Category P: For transporting passengers (e.g., taxis, buses, etc.).
- Category G: For transporting goods.
- Category D: For driving dangerous goods vehicles, such as fuel tankers.
To obtain a PrDP, a driver usually needs to meet specific age requirements, undergo a medical examination, have no criminal record related to driving, and possess a valid driver’s license for the relevant vehicle category.
In some provinces you can apply for it online, click here to verify if your province is eligible for online application.
2. How to apply
Prepare the following documents for your application.
- Identity Document (ID): ID card or foreign passport and filling in a mating card.
- A valid driver’s license: Matching the code of the vehicle for which you are applying.
- Proof of Residency: Permission to occupy, municipal rates documents or any document that proves your residential address.
- ID Photos: You also need two ID photos usually black and white
- Medical Certificate: Confirms that you are fit to operate a vehicle requiring a PrDP.
3. Applying for the PrDP at the DLTC
Upon arrival you should do the following:
- Go To A Licensing Office: You should get the application and fill it out.
- Eye Test: You must procced and undergo an eye test or provide an eye test certificate from an optometrist .
- Fingerprint Verification: Your fingerprint will be captured and sent for criminal record check.
- You must deposit the application fee into the account below before your application can be processed.
- Bank details for depositing the application fee:
- Account name: Ideco AFISwitch (Pty) Ltd
- Bank: ABSA
- Branch: Business Banking Johannesburg North
- Account type: Cheque
- Account number: 4074078548
- Branch code: 630256
- Reference: Use the applicant’s ID number as the reference.
- After fingerprint capture, you will wait 7 to 14 days for the results. These results will determine whether you can proceed with the application or not.
- You must deposit the application fee into the account below before your application can be processed.
- If your result are fine or you have no criminal record related to driving, You will then make payment for the new driving licence with PrDP.
4. Card Collection
Lastly:
- Bring Your Documents: Take along your driving learners, identification documents and any document or receipt obtained prior.
- Driving License Collection: A temporary license may be obtained on the same day your fingerprint result where obtained, while you wait for 4 to 6 weeks for the license card with PrDP.
The Professional Driving Permit is valid for 2 years, therefore must be renewed every two years.