The Western Cape Government will process new e-hailing licences. That’s according to the Provincial Mobility Department. It announced that the Western Cape Government’s Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) will officially be processing new applications for metered and e-hailing taxi operating licences in Cape Town.
“Metered and e-hailing taxi services play a vital role in the Metro’s transport network, connecting thousands of residents to work, education, and economic opportunities,” said Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku.
READ MORE: Hundreds more e-hailing operating licences on offer
The Western Cape Government will process new e-hailing licences
This exciting move comes after the City of Cape Town confirmed a shortfall in the number of legal operators to meet passenger demand. Recent updates to the City’s taxi demand model reveal that 6,600 vehicles are needed to serve Cape Town efficiently. However, only 5,494 operating licences currently exist – leaving a gap of 1,106 licences up for grabs.
E-hailing: Two-Phase Application Window
🔹 Phase 1: “Late” Renewal Applications (NOW – 30 June 2025)
PRE identified 260 expired licences since March 2023. This is your once-off chance to renew them! Missed the deadline? You must submit a written motivation by 30 June 2025.
🔹 Phase 2: New Applications (Opens 1 July 2025)
From 1 July, new and unsuccessful applicants from July 2023–May 2025 can re-apply with updated documents.
Sileku added, “This window provides a critical opportunity for operators to either renew or apply for licences, ensuring that services remain legal, safe, and aligned with the City’s infrastructure capacity.
📍 E-hailing Licence – How to Apply
Apply in person at the PRE Vangate Shared Services Centre, Bridgetown, Athlone, Monday to Thursday, 7:30am–4:00pm. Forms are available on the PRE website. Only complete applications will be accepted.
The Western Cape Government Provincial Regulatory Entity (PRE) has extended its digital footprint to allow for alternatives to process an application for public transport operating licences.
You can apply by:
- visiting one of the public operating licences offices,
- applying online: https://live.online.ptrswesterncape.org/#/sign-up, or
- emailing applications to DTPW.preapplications@westerncape.gov.za
Send PRE enquiries to enquiries.wcpre@westerncape.gov.za.
READ MORE: Where to apply
⚠️ Act Fast – Limited Licences Available
Once the 1,106 licences are allocated, no more will be issued until a new assessment is done.
“This window is a golden opportunity to ensure legal, safe and city-aligned transport services,” said Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku.
MORE ABOUT: Applying for a public operating licence
