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What documents are needed when buying a motorbike?

Buying a motorcycle is an exciting experience that can easily sour if you aren't prepared. Here we detail what you need to have with you when heading the dealer to make your purchase.

Buying a Bike1 min read

Getting the paperwork done

Buying a bike can be an exciting experience, and one of the most frequently asked questions we receive is what paperwork you need to make that purchase. We chatted with a few dealerships, and the answer was surprisingly simple.

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Once you’ve decided to purchase, you will need three documents for the dealer to initiate the sale.

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Hands rifling through document pack

ID Document 

A green barcoded ID or SA ID card is needed to prove you are you. If you are a foreign national, your country of origin’s ID and relevant work permit or visa will be required.

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two sets of hands engaging in contract signing

Proof of residence

You must provide proof of residence, for example, a utility bill or similar bill statement mailed to your residential address. If you have no bills to speak of, which is highly unlikely, a copy of your rental agreement should do.

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two people examining a contract

Proof of income

The last document you will need is proof of employment or income. Your latest payslip or (if you are self-employed) a few months’ worth of bank statements—usually the last three—will do.

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pen poised to sign a contract

The dealership will then assess affordability to see how much you can comfortably afford monthly. Then, their finance team will assist with securing finance from one of the various financial institutions.


Author - Lawrence Minnie

Written by Lawrence Minnie

Lawrence has been involved with motorsports for almost 30 years. Whether it's two wheels or four, if it has an engine, he will try to race it. This love of motor vehicles has led him to ride, drive, film, photograph, and write about his passion. Freelance for a while but now a permanent fixture on the AutoTrader team for over 7 years, Lawrence contributes written, photographic, and video content for AutoTrader and AutoTrader Bikes.Read more

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