DRIVERS AND ASSISTANTS

As per the Department of Employment and Labour, the national minimum wage is R30.40 per hour effective 1 March 2026, applying to light delivery drivers not covered by sectoral determinations. This equates to R5,259 per month for a standard 45-hour week over 173 hours. Overtime is paid at 1.5 times the rate for hours exceeding 45 per week.

As per the Department of Home Affairs, foreign truck drivers need a General Work Visa sponsored by a registered employer, with an application fee of R1,520 when applying from outside South Africa. Processing takes 4-8 weeks, and driver occupations are not listed on the Critical Skills Work Visa list. A valid Code 14 licence and PrDP must be obtained after arrival.

As per the Road Traffic Management Corporation, a valid Code 14 driver's licence, Professional Driving Permit (PrDP), and a medical fitness certificate are required for truck drivers. No formal education qualification is mandated by law, but at least 2 years of relevant driving experience is typically verified through logbooks. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass a defensive driving course.

As per the Department of Employment and Labour, required documents include a certified ID or passport copy, updated CV, valid driver's licence, PrDP, and proof of address not older than 3 months. Submit these at a labour centre or via the ESSA online portal for registration on the labour database. A criminal record check via SAPS is also mandatory for vetting.