The Mine Managers' certificate of competency serves as a permit to legally practice as a mine manager in South African mines. These certificates are granted to individuals who demonstrate competence and meet the qualifications required to fulfill the duties of a mine manager, as specified in the Mine Health and Safety Act, 1996 (Act 29 of 1996) and its regulations.

To become a candidate for the certificate, individuals must hold a blasting certificate of competency, fulfill the required number of practical shifts in a mine, and satisfy other application requirements. Once eligible, the candidate can apply to the Department of Mineral Resources to take the examination. Upon acceptance as a candidate, an assessment is conducted to determine the candidate's competence. A certificate of competence is only issued after the candidate successfully completes a written examination comprising three parts covering all the necessary subjects. The Chief Inspector of Mines has the discretion to grant exemptions from writing certain parts of the examination based on the candidate's existing mining qualifications.