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What is e-hailing?
Short answer
E-hailing is booking a ride through a smartphone app such as Uber, Bolt, inDrive or DiDi. In South Africa it is recognised in law as its own transport category: drivers need a PrDP, and each car needs an e-hailing operating licence and insurance that covers passengers.
The main apps in South Africa
- Uber: UberGo, UberX, Comfort, UberXL, Black.
- Bolt: Bolt Lite, Bolt, Bolt XL.
- inDrive: passengers propose a fare and drivers accept or counter.
- DiDi: active in several cities.
Most drivers run more than one app. See Uber vs Bolt for drivers.
What drivers need
- A driver’s licence and a PrDP
- A car that meets the app’s rules
- An e-hailing operating licence for the car
- Insurance that covers paying passengers
Want to start without a car? See drive for Uber or Bolt without a car.
Questions drivers ask
Is e-hailing legal in South Africa?
Yes. The National Land Transport Amendment Act recognises e-hailing services. Drivers and cars must have the right permits.
What is the difference between e-hailing and a metered taxi?
Metered taxis are hailed or booked by phone and use a meter. E-hailing trips are booked and priced in an app.