Gauteng MEC urges families of deceased transport operators to apply for licence transfers

Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has urged families of deceased public transport operators to apply for transfers of operating licences to ensure legal compliance and protect the rights of operators, commuters and beneficiaries.

Why transfers are important

According to the Gauteng Department of Transport and Logistics, transferring an operating licence is a legal necessity that preserves the integrity of the public transport regulatory system and safeguards stakeholders.

Where to get help

The Department’s Public Transport Women’s Help Desk, located in central Johannesburg, provides step-by-step guidance, support, advocacy, information and redress for applicants. The facility offers sector-specific legal and compliance support, training opportunities, business development resources and assistance in reporting abuse. It also helps resolve challenges regarding licence transfers, renewals, amendments and rectifications.

“We encourage clients and applicants to seize this opportunity by visiting the Public Transport Women’s Help Desk for guidance, advice and support throughout this process.”

What applicants must bring

The Department lists required documents for applicants seeking an operating licence transfer. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Help Desk and bring:

• IDs of both the current licence holder and the new applicant (or company documents, if applicable)
• A valid operating licence (or copy)
• Proof of tax compliance from SARS
• A Letter of Authority or Executorship
• An affidavit confirming the transfer
• Association letter (for minibus taxi operators)
• A non-refundable application fee of R600 per vehicle

Additional documents where the licence holder has died

For deceased estates, applicants must also provide:

• Death certificate
• Letter of Executorship or Authority
• ID of the executor or authorised representative
• Affidavit confirming intention to transfer
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Proof that the operating licence is still in use (where applicable)
• Vehicle documents (to be submitted after approval)

After approval

Once an application is approved, applicants will be required to provide:

• Vehicle registration papers
• Certificate of Fitness
• Valid SARS clearance (where applicable)

Important notes

Applications must be completed and signed in the presence of an authorised official. To facilitate verification and assistance, clients are encouraged to have the deceased family member’s ID number available.

If applicants need further information, the Department’s Public Transport Women’s Help Desk in central Johannesburg is the stated contact point for guidance and support.