DRIVERS AND TRUCK ASSISTANTS

As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage applicable to drivers is R30.60 per hour effective 1 March 2026. This equates to R5,300 per month for a standard 173-hour work month under the Basic Conditions of Employment Act. Overtime for drivers is paid at 1.5 times the ordinary rate for hours exceeding 45 per week.

As per the Department of Home Affairs, foreigners require a General Work Visa (subcategory 3.1) to work as drivers, which needs a verified job offer from a South African employer and proof of a Code B/10/14 licence. The application fee is R1,520, with processing taking 20-40 working days at a VFS centre. Drivers are not on the Critical Skills List, so no shortcuts apply.

As per the Department of Transport, truck drivers need a valid Code 14 driver's licence, at least Grade 10 education, and 2 years of relevant driving experience. A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) is mandatory for vehicles over 3.5 tons, renewable every 5 years for drivers under 60. Medical fitness certification from a registered practitioner is required.

As per the Road Traffic Management Corporation, applicants need a completed DL1 form, certified ID copy, two passport photos, valid driver's licence, medical certificate (DL9 form), and proof of payment of R260 fee. Applications are submitted at a Driving Licence Testing Centre (DLTC), with approval taking up to 10 working days. Fingerprints and photos are captured on-site.