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Driver Salary in South Africa

Updated 2026-07-01

Salary Summary — Driver

Average
R8,000 – R16,000 per month
Full Range
R6,000 – R28,000 per month
Entry Level
R6,000 – R9,000 per month (Code 8 / Delivery)
Mid Level
R10,000 – R16,000 per month (Code 10 / Code 14)
Senior Level
R17,000 – R28,000 per month (Long-haul / Cross-border / Specialised)

Drivers keep South Africa’s economy moving. Pay rises sharply with your licence code and Professional Driving Permit (PrDP), with long-haul and cross-border truck drivers earning the most.

Pay by licence code

  • Code 8 (B) — light delivery and courier roles, entry pay.
  • Code 10 (C1) — medium trucks and larger delivery vehicles.
  • Code 14 (EC) — articulated trucks and heavy haulage, highest pay.

What raises a driver’s salary

  • A valid PrDP — required for goods and passengers.
  • Dangerous goods (hazchem) endorsement — higher-paid loads.
  • Long-haul and cross-border routes — trip allowances add up.
  • A clean driving record — trusted with better routes and vehicles.

Career Path

  • Code 8 Delivery Driver — light vehicles and couriers.
  • Code 10 Driver — medium trucks.
  • Code 14 Driver — heavy and articulated trucks.
  • Long-haul / Cross-border Driver — premium routes.
  • Fleet Controller / Transport Supervisor — off-road management.

Requirements & Qualifications

  • A valid driver’s licence for the relevant code (8, 10 or 14).
  • A Professional Driving Permit (PrDP).
  • A clean driving record.
  • Matric is preferred; a hazchem endorsement helps for specialised loads.
  • Knowledge of vehicle inspections and road safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Code 14 truck driver earn in South Africa?

Code 14 drivers typically earn R10,000 to R16,000 per month, and experienced long-haul or cross-border drivers can earn R17,000 to R28,000 including trip allowances.

Do I need a PrDP to drive professionally?

Yes. A Professional Driving Permit is legally required to drive goods vehicles and passengers for reward, and most employers will not hire a professional driver without one.

How can I earn more as a driver?

Upgrade your licence code to Code 14, get a PrDP and a dangerous-goods endorsement, keep a clean record, and move into long-haul or cross-border routes.

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