Popular e-hailing platform Bolt has officially registered under South Africa’s new e-hailing rules
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Popular e-hailing platform Bolt has officially registered under South Africa’s newly implemented national transport regulations, becoming the first major ride-hailing company in the country to do so.
IOL previously reported that Bolt, along with competitors like Uber, could face legal trouble as the 180-day compliance deadline for the new regulations approaches. The rules require operators to register with the National Public Transport Regulator, meet safety requirements, and ensure drivers and vehicles are properly licensed.
Bolt said, "It is proud to announce that it has officially registered under South Africa’s newly implemented transport regulations, becoming the first major ride-hailing platform in the country to do so".
The company added that on February 27 2026, the NPTR issued it with a Certificate of Registration, formally confirming compliance.
"This milestone not only reinforces Bolt’s commitment to regulatory compliance and constructive engagement with government but also marks a significant step forward in strengthening safety across the platform for both driver operators and passengers".
Fikile Nzuza-Chunga, Senior Public Policy Manager for Bolt South Africa, said the company has "always welcomed the introduction of clear and progressive regulations for the e-hailing sector".
"From the outset, we have worked closely with regulators and industry stakeholders to ensure compliance and welcome the framework that supports innovation, safety, and sustainable growth. Receiving the Certificate of Registration from the NPTR is an important milestone not only for Bolt, but for the broader e-hailing industry, as it strengthens trust and enhances safety for both driver operators and passengers," Chunga said.
"Bolt has held numerous driver summits across the country to educate driver operators on the platform about the importance of complying with the new regulations and understanding their responsibilities within the evolving transport environment".
Last week, IOL also reported that Afrikaans e-hailing operator WANATU became the first e-hailing platform in South Africa to complete the national registration process under the new transport regulations.
mthobisi.nozulela@iol.co.za
IOL Business