Soon you can expect to see branded Ubers, Bolts and other e-hailing cars on South African roads. This is as outlined in the new National Land Transport Amendment Act. The law came into operation earlier this month (Friday 12 September 2025), after a presidential proclamation in the Government Gazette.
While operators are not happy about having to prepare branded Ubers for their drivers, the law is seen as a massive win for the e-hailing industry. The act now officially recognises e-hailing drivers after years of consternation and protest. Drivers say they were being treated with hostility by other transport services, often seen as illegal operators. The only catch is they will have to drive branded Ubers …
BRANDED UBERS IN 2025
Being able to recognise branded Ubers – just like conventional metered taxis – will bring untold benefits on the roads. Namely, you’ll be able to easily identify if the slow-moving Almera/Amaze/Etios/Go in the fast lane is in fact an Uber. Then you can hoot at it to make it move …
Likewise, from a rider safety point of view, branded Ubers will be a massive improvement. E-hailing drivers must also have operating licences to ensure their services remain authorised and safe. So, no more climbing into the back of the next dinged-up sedan that simply pulls up. All good things for motorists and e-hailing clients. However, not everyone is happy …
SAEHA IS UNHAPPY
Meanwhile, after months of lobbying, the South African e-hailing association (SAEHA) has voiced concerns over the risks of branded Ubers. “The government’s new act overlooks more critical systemic issues. Namely, the role and accountability of app platforms like Uber and Bolt,” says SAEHA Deputy Secretary Trevor Mathebula.
“Requiring drivers to brand their vehicles openly exposes them to undue risk. This makes them easier targets for criminals and rival operators,” Mathebula explained. However, branding is just one part of the rules for the quality and security control of e-hailing vehicles. Panic buttons must also be installed at the driver/owner’s expense. And e-hailing operators will now be confined to specific geographic zones.
BIG FINES FOR NON-BRANDED UBERS AND BOLTS
Unfortunately, there was a high-profile incident at the Mopanya Mall in Soweto back in August 2025. An e-hailing driver was killed in an alleged mob attack. App developers are warned that drivers caught using their apps without the correct operating licence and compliance risk a R100 000 fine and/or two years in jail.
Likewise, all e-hailing apps must be registered with South African regulators. In response to the law change Uber said: “We are assessing the requirements of the new legislation. And we remain committed to working with government and industry partners to support a smooth transition.”
Let us know in the comments section below if you’re excited to see branded Ubers on South African roads …
