Fuel licensing is a mandatory step to operating a legitimate fuel business in South Africa, as stipulated by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy (DMRE). The DMRE promotes economic growth and development, social equity and environmental sustainability in the sector. You must apply to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy for the relevant license if you want to buy or sell petroleum products to members of the public. The license will be valid for as long as your business operates.
You can obtain a retail or wholesale fuel license. A wholesale license allows you to buy petroleum products in bulk (1500 litres or more, per transaction of petroleum products) from a licensed manufacturer, and to sell it to end users. Retailers can purchase petroleum products from a licensed manufacturer or wholesaler only. The license or a certified copy should be displayed on the business premises in a manner which anyone entering the premises may read it.
Appropriate Steps in Fuel Licensing
- Complete the Application form for either a site or retail license, DMRE 39.
- Send the application form to the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy regional office.
- The Department will send you a letter stipulating that you must publish a notice of application in four newspapers.
- You must provide proof of the publication of the notice of application to the Department.
- Once you have a license, you must submit information on your business annually using the Retail license annual information (submission form), DMRE 33.
A decision is made within 90 days from the date when the Department received proof of publication of the notice of application.
Fees for Fuel Licensing
- R1000.00 – site license application fee.
- R500.00 – retail license application fee.
- R500.00 – for the retail license annual information.
For more information and assistance on fuel licensing – Contact Us!