Gauteng launches GPTRIS to speed up public-transport operating licences

The Gauteng Department of Transport has launched a new digital platform, the Gauteng Public Transport Regulatory Information System (GPTRIS), designed to speed up how operating licences for public transport are received, processed and issued, with a particular focus on e-hailing services.

What the new system will do

Officials said GPTRIS will introduce streamlined application workflows and standardised compliance checks. The platform is intended to support the department’s existing 60-day turnaround time for operating-licence applications and to accommodate over-the-counter processing.

Planned features highlighted by the department include:

• online applications and progress tracking from any location,
• digital payments,
• greater automation,
• reduced paper-based administration, and
• real-time application tracking.

Transparency and data accuracy

The department said GPTRIS aims to improve the accuracy of licensing records, including route information, as part of efforts to enhance transparency and governance.

Officials at the launch

The launch was attended by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela and Johannesburg MMC for Roads Tlangi Magale.

Voices from the launch

“We are using technology to simplify the operating licence process, reduce unnecessary administrative delays and make services more accessible to operators.”

Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela

“Faster, more transparent and responsive.”

Diale-Tlabela, on the aim of the system

“This functionality will greatly contribute to the elimination of long queues.”

Diale-Tlabela, on the planned self-service function

“Purification of records, including route information, will contribute towards improved data accuracy and transparency.”

Diale-Tlabela

Background and limits of available information

The launch follows concerns about operators driving without licences. The available report did not include figures on unlicensed operators, implementation milestones or a date for the system’s full rollout.