Vehicle registration guidance for new, used, built/rebuilt, modified and imported vehicles.
Registering a Motor Vehicle
If you are the title holder of a new, pre-owned, built or rebuilt motor vehicle, you must register it at the relevant registering authority to obtain a registration certificate. If the vehicle is financed, the financing institution may be the title holder.
21-day ownership rule
When ownership changes, the vehicle must be registered and licensed in the new owner’s name within 21 days. Late registration can result in arrears and penalties.
When registration can become null and void
- The vehicle licence has not been renewed for more than four years.
- The vehicle has been declared permanently unfit for use after an accident.
- The vehicle has been sold and ownership changed.
- The vehicle has been repossessed for more than 31 days.
- A deregistration certificate has been issued.
New vehicle
- ID and proof of residential address.
- Ward councillor address confirmation where applicable for informal settlements.
- Manufacturer’s certificate containing the vehicle details.
- Roadworthy certificate where applicable for a heavy-load/RTQS vehicle.
Complete the RLV form.
Used / pre-owned vehicle
- The seller submits the NCO notification.
- Buyer’s ID and proof of address.
- Vehicle registration certificate in the seller’s name.
- Roadworthiness certificate if the current certificate is older than 60 days.
- Proof of purchase and a valid motor vehicle licence.
The buyer completes the RLV and must submit the required documents within 21 days of purchase.
Built from parts or modified vehicles
These processes can require an affidavit (SOA), police clearance/identification, mass measuring certificate, proof of ownership, roadworthy certification and, where applicable, a Letter of Authority. The provincial helpdesk may need to introduce the vehicle record on eNaTIS.
Processing and fees
The application may be forwarded to the provincial helpdesk and introducing a vehicle record can take a few days. Contact the local licensing office for current fees.