PrDP: How to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit in South Africa

Professional driving permit: minimum age 18 for goods vehicles, 21 for passenger vehicles, 25 for dangerous goods, valid for two years

Quick answer: You need a professional driving permit (PrDP, often called a PDP) to drive vehicles such as buses, taxis, goods vehicles over 3,500 kg and dangerous goods vehicles. The minimum age is 18 for goods vehicles, 21 for passenger vehicles and 25 for dangerous goods vehicles. You apply at your driving licence testing centre with your driving licence, ID, a medical certificate, the application form and the fee.

A PrDP is not a separate driving licence. It is an extra permit on top of the driving licence you already have for that type of vehicle.

Who Needs a PrDP?

You drive	PrDP category	Minimum age
Goods vehicles over 3,500 kg, breakdown vehicles	G (goods)	18
Buses, minibus taxis and vehicles carrying people for reward	P (passengers)	21
Vehicles carrying dangerous goods, such as fuel tankers	D (dangerous goods)	25

You must also hold a valid driving licence for the vehicle class you will drive.

What to Take When You Apply

Your ID.
Your valid driving licence card.
A medical certificate completed by a doctor (form MC).
The PrDP application form (PD1), available at the testing centre.
Passport-size photos, if the centre asks for them.
The application fee.

For dangerous goods (category D), you also need a certificate from an approved dangerous goods training course, and you must not have been convicted of a crime involving violence.

How to Apply: Step by Step

Make sure your driving licence is valid for the vehicle class.
Get your medical examination done and the medical form signed by a doctor.
Go to your driving licence testing centre (DLTC). Some centres need a booking.
Submit the forms and documents, and have your fingerprints and eyes tested if required.
Pay the fee. Fees differ between provinces and centres.
Collect your PrDP when it is ready. It is printed on your driving licence card.

How Long Is a PrDP Valid?

A PrDP is valid for two years. Renew it before it expires. You need a new medical certificate each time you renew.

If your PrDP has expired, you may not drive the vehicles that need it until it is renewed.

PrDP Questions

What does PrDP stand for?

Professional driving permit. Many people call it a PDP.

How old must I be to get a PrDP?

18 for goods vehicles, 21 for passenger vehicles and 25 for dangerous goods vehicles.

How long is a PrDP valid?

Two years.

Do I need a PrDP to drive an Uber or taxi?

If you carry passengers for reward, you need a PrDP in the passenger category, as well as the right licence.

Where do I apply for a PrDP?

At your local driving licence testing centre (DLTC).

More driving guides: renew your driving licence and check traffic fines online.