The Western Cape Government's Provincial Regulatory Entity PRE announced today, 25 June, the opening of applications for new operating licences for metered and e-hailing taxi services in Cape Town, following confirmation from the City of Cape Town that additional operators are needed to meet passenger demand, Cape town Etc reports.
An updated transport demand model revealed that the city requires a total of 6 600 licensed vehicles to adequately serve commuters. Currently, 5 494 metered and e-hailing taxi licences are active, leaving a shortfall of 1 106 permits. This presents an opportunity for both existing operators with expired licences and new applicants to secure legal operating rights.
Two-phase application processThe PRE has structured the licensing process into two phases to ensure fairness and order:
- Phase 1: Late renewals Open until 30 June 2025
Operators whose licences expired after 1 March 2023 have been notified and must submit renewal applications before the deadline. A total of 260 expired licences are eligible for this one-time renewal opportunity. Those unable to apply by 30 June must provide written reasons to the PRE for consideration.
- Phase 2: New applications From 1 July 2025
Starting 1 July, the PRE will accept new applications for the remaining available licences. Operators who previously applied between 1 July 2023 and May 2025 but were unsuccessful are encouraged to reapply with updated documentation.