Unitrans Truck Driver Learnership 2026: Apply for NQF Level 3 Opportunity

Unitrans has opened applications for a Truck Driver Learnership Opportunity aimed at qualifying unemployed South African youth who want to build a career in professional truck driving and the transport industry.

The learnership leads to an Occupational Certificate: Truck Driver at NQF Level 3 and combines classroom learning, workplace training and practical driving experience. The programme is designed to prepare participants for the changing road freight industry, including the use of technology, telematics and modern fleet management systems.

The closing date is 28 August 2026, so eligible applicants should make sure their applications and supporting documents are submitted before the deadline.

Truck Driver Learnership Details

Company: Unitrans
Position: Truck Driver Learnership Opportunity
Reference Number: UNI260817-8
Qualification: Occupational Certificate: Truck Driver NQF Level 3
Programme Duration: 12 to 18 months
Contract Type: Temporary Learnership
Location: KwaZulu-Natal, Cape Town and Gauteng
Closing Date: 28 August 2026

Unitrans describes professional driving as a career that can provide opportunities within the wider transport, logistics and supply chain industry. Learners will receive structured training aimed at developing safe, responsible and technology-aware professional drivers.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must have a valid Code EC driver’s licence.
• Must have a valid Professional Driving Permit (PrDP) with categories D, G and P.
• Must provide a certified copy of a Matric certificate.
• Must be medically fit.
• Must be willing to work shifts, weekends and public holidays.

A degree or diploma in logistics, supply chain management, transport economics or a related field will be advantageous, although it is not listed as a compulsory requirement.

Applicants should carefully check that their driver’s licence and PrDP meet the requirements before applying.

Learnership Training Programme

Successful applicants will participate in a structured programme lasting approximately 12 to 18 months.

The training combines classroom theory with workplace learning and practical driving experience. Learners will be expected to attend compulsory face-to-face classroom training and demonstrate competence during the programme.

Participants must also complete a minimum of 100 practical driving hours in the workplace before proceeding to the final assessment.

The programme is intended to help learners develop the practical and technical knowledge required to operate heavy vehicles safely and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities

Learners will be trained to operate trucks while following applicable road safety and operational requirements.

The programme includes:

• Classroom-based theoretical training.
• On-the-job workplace training.
• Practical driving experience.
• A minimum of 100 practical driving hours.
• Safe and efficient vehicle operation.
• Application of legislated road safety standards.
• Understanding energy-efficient driving practices.
• Working with modern vehicle technology and telematics.
• Preparing for the final competence assessment.

Learners must also complete the compulsory External Integrated Summative Assessment (EISA) as part of the qualification process.

Skills and Attributes

Unitrans is looking for candidates who take safety seriously and can make responsible decisions on the road.

Applicants should have a safety-first mindset, good judgement and strong customer-service skills. Problem-solving ability and confidence when making decisions are also important.

Because the transport industry is increasingly using technology, candidates should be comfortable working with computerised truck systems, telematics and other onboard technology.

Reliability, discipline and pride in one’s work are also important qualities for anyone pursuing a career as a professional truck driver.

Documents Required

Applicants must submit the required supporting documentation with their online application.

The documents should include certified copies of:

• South African ID
• Matric certificate
• Code EC driver’s licence
• Professional Driving Permit (PrDP)
• Other qualifications, where applicable

The advert specifies that the certified documents must be not older than three months.

Final Thoughts

The Unitrans Truck Driver Learnership 2026 provides an opportunity for eligible South African youth to gain structured training and practical workplace experience while working towards an Occupational Certificate: Truck Driver NQF Level 3.

With locations covering KwaZulu-Natal, Cape Town and Gauteng, this opportunity may suit candidates who already meet the heavy-vehicle licence and PrDP requirements and are serious about developing a career in transport and logistics.

How to Apply