Code 10 Driver Salary in South Africa (2025)

The profession of a code 10 driver in South Africa is an essential part of the nation’s transport and logistics system. Drivers with this licence are responsible for moving goods, supplies, and equipment across cities and provinces. Knowing the current code 10 driver salary in South Africa is crucial for graduates, job seekers, and those planning a career change. Pay levels depend on several key factors, including experience, qualifications, employer type, and location, as well as whether the driver holds extra certifications or operates longer routes.

Average Code 10 Driver Salary in South Africa

When compared to the national average monthly salary, which ranges between R26,000 and R29,000, the average code 10 driver salary in South Africa is below the overall median income. However, this profession offers a steady income and relatively low barriers to entry, making it an accessible and secure career option for many South Africans.

Code 10 Driver Salary by Experience Level

Code 10 Driver Salary by Qualification

Holding a valid Professional Driving Permit (PDP) and other advanced certifications can increase a driver’s employability and salary potential. Employers value drivers who can handle hazardous materials, long-distance logistics, or operate under complex route conditions.

Code 10 Driver Salary by Location (Province/City)

Drivers in major cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town generally earn higher salaries due to greater demand and the concentration of logistics companies. In contrast, smaller towns or rural areas tend to offer lower pay, though some employers provide extra benefits such as accommodation or travel allowances.

Public vs Private Sector Code 10 Driver Salaries

Public sector drivers, such as those employed by government departments, may earn slightly less than private-sector drivers. However, they often enjoy additional perks like pension contributions, housing allowances, and stable working conditions. Private-sector drivers, particularly those in logistics or transport companies, may earn more due to overtime, route bonuses, and performance incentives.

Key differences between government and private roles include workload, overtime options, and the structure of benefits. While government positions focus on stability and fixed hours, private companies reward flexibility and extended driving schedules.

Additional Benefits and Allowances

Many employers offer more than just a monthly salary. Common benefits and allowances for code 10 drivers include:

• Medical Aid and Pension Fund – Some employers contribute to private health insurance or pension schemes.

• Leave Days – Full-time drivers typically receive annual and sick leave according to labour laws.

• Overtime and Shift Allowances – Working night shifts, weekends, or public holidays often brings extra income.

• Travel or Mileage Reimbursements – Especially common for drivers using personal vehicles for work-related trips.

• Rural or Remote Area Incentives – Extra pay or accommodation benefits for drivers stationed outside major cities.

• Performance or Safety Bonuses – Some logistics firms reward drivers with clean records and strong reliability.

These benefits can significantly raise the overall value of a driver’s job package, even when the base salary appears modest.

Actionable Steps for Drivers to Earn More

To increase your earning potential as a code 10 driver in South Africa, consider the following strategies:

1. Upgrade Your Licence – Obtaining a Code 14 licence allows you to drive heavier vehicles, which usually pay more.

2. Obtain a Professional Driving Permit (PDP) – Required for commercial driving, it opens more job opportunities.

3. Take Safety and Defensive Driving Courses – Additional qualifications make you more attractive to employers.

4. Build Experience in Logistics Companies – Employers prefer drivers with proven reliability on long-distance routes.

5. Negotiate Overtime Pay and Allowances – Always confirm whether your employer compensates extra hours and night shifts.

6. Seek Employment in Major Cities – Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town tend to pay better wages for the same skill level.

7. Maintain a Clean Record – Employers offer higher pay to drivers with clean traffic and safety records.

By investing in qualifications and maintaining professionalism, a driver can progress to supervisory or fleet management roles that pay considerably more.

Comparison with Other Professions

This table helps put the code 10 driver salary in South Africa into perspective. While drivers earn less than most skilled professionals, the job remains attractive due to low entry barriers and steady demand in the transport sector. It is also a gateway to higher-paying logistics and long-haul driving opportunities.

Challenges and Salary Growth Potential

Despite steady demand, code 10 drivers face several challenges that can limit salary growth. Long working hours, fluctuating fuel prices, and high vehicle maintenance costs can affect employers’ budgets and, consequently, driver pay.

Salary progression often depends on a driver’s ability to transition into higher responsibility roles. With time, drivers can become senior operators, team leaders, or supervisors overseeing vehicle fleets. Promotions often come with better benefits and higher pay scales.

However, certain factors can slow salary growth:

• Working for small or local firms with limited budgets.

• Remaining at entry-level qualification without upgrading licences.

• Staying in regions with low transport demand.

• Not maintaining a clean driving and safety record.

Drivers who proactively seek further training, improve efficiency, and show leadership potential often see faster salary increases and access to higher-paying companies.

How to Become a Code 10 Driver in South Africa

Becoming a code 10 driver in South Africa involves a few structured steps.

1. Obtain a Learner’s Licence: Before applying for a code 10 licence, you must first pass a learner’s test covering road signs, rules, and regulations.

2. Attend a Licensed Driving School: Enrol in a registered training centre that offers code 10 vehicle lessons. Practical training helps you master vehicle handling and safety.

3. Pass the Driving Test: The official test includes yard manoeuvres and on-road driving. Passing it grants you the code 10 licence.

4. Apply for a Professional Driving Permit (PDP): Required for commercial transport, the PDP ensures you meet safety and legal standards.

5. Gain Experience: Start with short-distance or delivery driving roles before moving into long-haul or specialized driving jobs.

6. Keep Records Clean: Employers prefer candidates with zero criminal or major traffic offences.

The job market outlook for code 10 drivers in South Africa remains strong due to the continued expansion of logistics, retail distribution, and supply chain operations. From delivery services to government fleets, demand for skilled and licensed drivers continues to rise.

Conclusion

The code 10 driver salary in South Africa reflects a balance between accessibility and responsibility. On average, drivers earn around R12,800 per month or R153,600 per year, which is below the national income average but competitive within the logistics and transport industry.

Earnings increase with experience, qualifications, and city location — with top drivers earning over R20,000 per month in private logistics firms or long-haul operations. Benefits like housing allowances, overtime pay, and pension contributions add further value.

To achieve higher income potential, drivers are encouraged to upgrade to Code 14 licences, obtain PDPs, and gain specialized endorsements such as hazardous goods transport.

Despite its challenges, being a code 10 driver in South Africa remains a dependable and respected career path. With growing infrastructure development and the rise of e-commerce logistics, skilled drivers are more valuable than ever.