Authorities in Gauteng have introduced a new cutting-edge online system to speed up the processing and issuing of public transport operating licences.
Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, joined by MEC for Roads and Transport Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, MMC for Roads and Transport Councillor Tlangi Magale and senior officials from the department, officially launched the Gauteng Public Transport Regulatory Information System (GPTRIS) in Pretoria on Tuesday, 6 October 2026.
The launch marks the beginning of what the provincial government believes will be a new era in public transport regulation, making it easier for people operating public transport businesses to comply with licensing requirements.
“The new digital platform is aimed at transforming and fast-tracking the receipting, processing and issuing of public transport operating licences in the province,” said the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport in a statement.
Non-compliance is rife among e-hailing drivers, and the department said they are expected to benefit significantly from the initiative.
“The launch places a special focus on e-hailing services, as the department continues to strengthen the regulation of an evolving public transport environment, enhance compliance and improve access to operating licence services,” said the department.
Diale-Tlabela said the platform would make it easier to apply for an operating licence while significantly reducing waiting times.
“GPTRIS represents a significant step forward in how the department regulates public transport in Gauteng. We are using technology to simplify the operating licence process, reduce unnecessary administrative delays and make services more accessible to operators,” said the MEC.
According to the department, GPTRIS is a digitally enhanced system primarily aimed at improving access and regulatory compliance, enhancing operational efficiency, and strengthening transparency and governance.
“GPTRIS is aimed at ensuring regulatory compliance by standardising compliance checks and supporting adherence to legislative prescripts, including the 60-day turnaround time for submitted operating licence applications and the processing of over-the-counter applications,” the MEC said.
“Our objective is to build a licensing system that is faster, more transparent and responsive, while ensuring that every application continues to be assessed against the applicable legislative and regulatory requirements,” added Diale-Tlabela.
Once fully implemented, GPTRIS will provide a self-service functionality enabling applicants to submit applications and track their progress from any location.
Authorities believe this will greatly contribute to eliminating long queues and will also provide an integrated payment facility, offering secure and immediate digital payment options.