Joombaah Application for Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs) in Botswana: Categories, Eligibility, and Application Process
Application for Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs) in Botswana: Categories, Eligibility, and Application Process

Permit Information

  • PERMIT_POSTED_BY: admin
  • PERMIT_POSTED_ON: Oct 23, 2024
  • Views : 225
  • Category : Africa » Southern Africa
  • Description : Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs) are required for drivers in Botswana involved in the transportation of goods, hazardous materials, and passengers. There are several types of PrDPs, each catering to specific vehicle categories and industries. These permits ensure that drivers meet safety and professional standards. The Department of Road Transport and Safety (DRTS) regulates the issuance of these permits. Joombaah facilitates knowledge to help you navigate the process of applying for a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) in Botswana.
  • Phone : (+267) 368-8600
  • Email : mtcpro@gov.bw
  • Website : https://www.gov.bw/transport-permits/application-professional-driving-permits-prdps

Overview

  • Application for Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs) in Botswana: Categories, Eligibility, and Application Process

    Introduction

    Driving in Botswana as a professional requires a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP), which certifies that the driver is qualified to transport goods, hazardous materials, or passengers. The permits are classified based on the type of transportation and vehicle. This article outlines the different categories of PrDPs, eligibility criteria, and the application process for acquiring a PrDP in Botswana.

    Types of Professional Driving Permits (PrDPs)

    There are various categories of PrDPs based on the type of transportation and vehicle class. The following table provides an overview of the PrDP categories:

    Category Description Minimum Age Required Licence Class
    PrDP-G Professional Driving Permit for transporting goods. 21 years B, C, EC
    PrDP-H Professional Driving Permit for transporting hazardous goods. 25 years B, C, EC
    PrDP-P Professional Driving Permit for call-cabs, taxis, and minibus. 21 years B
    PrDP-P Professional Driving Permit for midi-bus. 21 years B, C1
    PrDP-P Professional Driving Permit for omnibus (65 seats), train bus, double-decker bus. 25 years C1, C, EC
    PrDP-P Professional Driving Permit for institutional vehicles. 21 years

    B, C1

     

    Note: Non-citizens are restricted to apply only for midi-bus or train bus permits, as taxi, call-cab, and minibus permits are reserved for Botswana nationals.

    Who is Eligible for a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) in Botswana?

    The PrDP is available to:

    • Citizens and non-citizens with a valid driving licence as per the table above.
    • Non-citizens may only apply for permits related to midi-buses and train buses, while other permits are reserved for Botswana nationals.

    Supporting Documents Required for PrDP Applications

    Depending on the category of the permit, the following documents are required:

    For Passenger/Special PrDPs:

    1. Certified Copy of a Valid National Identity Card (Omang) for citizens.
    2. Certified Copy of Passport for non-citizens.
    3. Certified Copy of Exemption Certificate or Residence and Work Permit for non-citizens.
    4. Valid Eye Screening Result Slip (DL8) from DRTS, Private, or Government Hospitals.
    5. Valid Driving Licence Card.
    6. Two (2) Passport Size Photos.

    For Goods and Hazardous PrDPs:

    1. Certified Copy of a Valid National Identity Card (Omang) for citizens.
    2. Certified Copy of Passport for non-citizens.
    3. Certified Copy of Exemption Certificate or Residence and Work Permit for non-citizens.
    4. Valid Driving Licence Card.
    5. Two (2) Passport Size Photos.

    How to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) in Botswana

    Follow these steps to apply for a PrDP:

    Step 1: Download and Complete the Application Form

    • Download the DL1 - Botswana Driving Licence Application Form and the Health Declaration Form (DL31). Both forms are available at DRTS offices or online.

    Step 2: Health and Police Clearance

    • Take the Health Declaration Form to a registered medical officer for examination.
    • For Passenger/Special PrDPs, submit the form to the Botswana Police for fingerprint clearance. For Goods and Hazardous PrDPs, police clearance is not required.

    Step 3: Eye Examination

    • Visit an eye screening office for an eye examination. If further testing is required, you will be referred to an external eye specialist.

    Step 4: Submit the Completed Application

    • Submit your completed forms, supporting documents, and two passport-sized photos to the nearest Department of Road Transport and Safety (DRTS) office.

    Processing Time for a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)

    The PrDP is processed immediately after submission of all required documents.

    Cost of a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)

    The fees for applying for a PrDP are as follows:

    • PrDP (Passenger/Special): BWP 169.00
    • PrDP (Goods): BWP 182.00
    • PrDP (Hazardous): BWP 195.00
    • Conductor’s Permit: BWP 169.00
    • Duplicate PrDP: BWP 169.00
    • Renewal of All PrDPs: BWP 169.00
    • Late Renewal Penalty: BWP 20.00 per day (up to a maximum of BWP 2,000.00).

    Where to Apply for a Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)

    You can apply for a PrDP at any Department of Road Transport and Safety (DRTS) office across Botswana. Offices are open from 07:30 to 16:30, Monday to Friday, except public holidays.