Vehicle licensing and registration is a key part of owning a car in South Africa, whether you’re an individual or a private company.
Registration comes before licensing and is recorded on the National traffic information system (eNaTIS). You must register a vehicle within 21 days of a change of ownership to avoid penalties from the Transport Department.
Driving an unregistered or unlicensed vehicle can lead to heavy fines and, in some cases, seizure of the vehicle. It’s not worth the risk.
Everything you need to complete your vehicle registration
To register a new vehicle
You’ll need the following documents;
- Your identification document (National ID or passport).
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement). If the bill is not in your name, attach a sworn affidavit from the account holder confirming that you live at the address.
- Roadworthy Certificate. Every vehicle in South Africa must pass this test to prove it’s safe and compliant. Tests are done at official testing stations across the country.
- A completed RLV form (Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle).
- The manufacturer’s certificate with the vehicle details.
The good news is, dealerships usually take care of your paperwork for new cars for you. You’ll have to provide them with your ID, proof of address and a signed RLV form.
If you paid for the car in cash, you’ll be registered as the owner and also as the titleholder in Natis. But if you financed it, the lender’s name will be the titleholder even though you’re listed as the owner.
To register a used vehicle
Registering a used vehicle is a slightly different process. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A completed NCO form (Notification of Change of Ownership) signed by both buyer and seller.
- The previous registration certificate in the seller’s name.
- A new Roadworthy Certificate, if the existing one is older than 60 days.
- Your identification document (National ID or passport).
- The sellers ID document
- Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement). If the bill is not in your name, attach a sworn affidavit from the account holder confirming you live at the address.
- Proof of vehicle purchase.
- A valid license document.
- A completed RLV form (Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle).
Vehicle registration and licensing steps
- Check the NCO form: Make sure the seller has completed and submitted it.
- Take the vehicle for a roadworthiness test: Get the roadworthiness certificate.
- Prepare your documents: Double-check that everything is filled in correctly, signed, dated, and photocopied.
- Visit your nearest motor vehicle registering office.
- Arrive early to avoid long queues.
- Hand over the completed documents.
- Pay the registration and licensing fees.
- Collect your documents:
- A new NaTIS certificate
- An updated license disc
- A payment receipt
- Verify everything is correct:
- Your personal information
- Vehicle details
- Dates and facts
- Store your documents securely.
Costs associated with vehicle registration
Vehicle registration fees vary depending on your province and city. Typical costs include:
- Roadworthy inspection and certificate: about R700
- Vehicle registration fee: R330
- Licensing fee: Cars weighing 1,000–1,250 kg cost about R642
- Number plate printing fee: around R500 (often available outside the licensing office)
- Number plate and disc fitting fee: about R200
For exact pricing, visit your local licensing office.
Renewing your vehicle registration
Your vehicle license must be renewed every year after its first registration. You also have a 21-day grace period after expiry. Once this period passes, penalties will apply.
To renew your license, visit the nearest vehicle registration and licensing office with these documents:
- Your ID.
- Your vehicle registration document (NaTIS).
- A completed MVL2 form.
- Payment for the renewal fee.
Situations that makes your vehicle registration void
While rare, there are situations that can lead to automatic deregistration of your vehicle:
- You sell your vehicle.
- The bank repossesses your vehicle for more than 31 days.
- Your vehicle is written off (totaled).
- Your license has not been renewed for three years.
FAQs
Do dealerships register cars for you in South Africa?
Yes, dealerships can register your vehicle for you. Ask your sales advisor, and they’ll guide you through the process.
What do I need to license and register my car?
You’ll need:
- Your ID.
- Proof of address.
- A completed NCO form.
- A valid roadworthy certificate.
- The seller’s ID document (for used vehicles).
- Proof of purchase.
- Other supporting documents depending on your situation.
How much does it cost to license a car in South Africa?
The licensing fee depends on your vehicle’s size and the province you’re in. For a new vehicle, you’ll first pay about R330 for registration, plus anywhere between R500 – R1,500 for the license itself. And other small charges for printing and fixing the license plate and disc.
Do you need a license to register a car in SA?
Yes, you need the previous license to register a used car. The only exception is when registering a brand-new car.
If the previous license has expired, or if there are outstanding traffic fines in the seller’s name, those must be settled before registration can be completed.
💡Tip: Always make sure the seller clears any fines and penalties before finalizing the sale.
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