Revolutionise your heavy vehicle fleet
Apply for the Western Cape Performance-Based Standards (PBS) permit after completing concept approval and assessment.
The Western Cape Mobility Department has launched its new Performance-Based Standards (PBS) Policy, enabling the use of advanced, more efficient Smart Trucks. These heavy vehicles are engineered to deliver higher payloads, enhanced safety, and reduced road and bridge wear. Apply from 1 November 2025, once your Concept Approval and PBS Assessment have been completed, to position your company ahead of the competition and capitalise on this significant productivity advantage.
The PBS framework represents a crucial shift, moving beyond traditional size and weight limits to focus instead on how heavy vehicles perform in real-world conditions. This innovative, performance-driven approach allows for advanced truck designs that substantially boost industry productivity while rigorously maintaining strict safety and infrastructure standards.
How the PBS policy works for you
Operating a High-Capacity Vehicle (HCV) under a PBS permit offers immediate, measurable benefits for your business and operations:
In short, the PBS Policy empowers operators to “Move More, Move Smarter.” It enables the transport of greater freight volumes using vehicles designed for maximum safety, efficiency, and performance.
Your pathway to PBS certification
The application process ensures that only compliant, high-performing Smart Trucks and dedicated operators qualify for the programme. Start preparing now to be ready to submit your application from 1 November 2025. Applications will be accepted after receiving Concept Approval and approval of the PBS safety, bridge, and road wear assessments from the Smart Truck Review Panel.
- Mandatory requirement: RTMS certification
Your company must be certified under the Road Transport Management System (RTMS) before applying for Concept Approval. This certification proves your commitment to safety and efficiency. If you’re not yet certified, make this your first priority.
- Comprehensive application and approval process
The PBS application involves several stages to ensure your Smart Truck is safe and suitable for its route:
- Vehicle design assessment: Your proposed HCV will be tested against 18 PBS performance standards using advanced engineering simulations to verify safety, stability, and braking.
- Infrastructure impact evaluation: Experts assess how your vehicle will affect roads and bridges along your planned route to protect infrastructure integrity.
- Route clearance: Approval is granted for a specific network where your vehicle may operate.
Once approved, operators must follow strict permit conditions, including ongoing monitoring of loads, routes, driver behaviour, and compliance.
How to apply
Applications for the Western Cape Mobility Department’s PBS Policy will be accepted via email at Tal.abnormalloads@westerncape.gov.za starting 1 November 2025. Online applications will open only once Concept Approval has been granted.
Once approval is granted, CLICK HERE TO APPLY:
Direct application enquiries to: Tal.abnormalloads@westerncape.gov.za
Important information:
- Only applications submitted online from 1 November 2025 will be accepted, subsequent to receiving Concept Approval.
- Previous applications or correspondence regarding PBS will not be valid under this new policy. You must submit a fresh application through the dedicated online portal starting 1 November.
Please note that previous Concept Approval applications will not be considered. New applications must be submitted through the dedicated online portal starting 1 November.
For more information, you may access the PBS poster / brochure.
We look forward to seeing your Smart Trucks on Western Cape roads!