A common query among vehicle owners is whether changing ownership online is possible. While there was an online system put in place by the Road Traffic Management Corporation earlier this year that allows for an online change of vehicle ownership to take place, this, at the time of writing, was only available to dealers and financial institutions, with a roll-out of a system open to individuals expected shortly.
Related: The Yellow Notification of Change of Ownership form explained
So, how can I change ownership, then?*
Visit Your Nearest Registering Authority:
If changing your address, bring the following:
-South African citizens: Copy of your identity (ID) document.
-Foreign citizens: Original and certified copy of ID from your country of origin and temporary residence permit.
-Proof of residential address, e.g., utility account. If not in your name, the owner must make an affidavit confirming your residence, attached to the utility bill.
-For informal settlements, a letter from the ward councillor with an official date stamp confirming your address.
-Foreign citizens must also complete NCP and Notice in Respect of Traffic Register Number (ANR) forms.
Selling the Vehicle:
-Seller completes the Notification of Change of Ownership/Sale of Motor Vehicle (NCO) form.
-Seller hands over the registration certificate to the buyer.
-Buyer completes the Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle form (RLV) for submission.
-The buyer submits the vehicle registration certificate if the vehicle was registered in South Africa.
-Provide a mass measuring certificate if the vehicle's tare was changed.
-Submit the forms, along with the registration form obtained from the seller and a roadworthiness certificate, within 21 days of purchase.
-If the vehicle is registered under a company, submit a certificate of incorporation or name change under the Companies Act or a founding statement.
Registration Authority Assessment:
-The registering authority evaluates your application.
-Pay the prescribed fees according to your province.
-Additional Requirements (if needed):
If the registering authority requests, provide proof of the right to be registered as the title holder, e.g., invoice or sales agreement.
Contact your nearest call centre or registering authority to inquire about acceptable proof if you don't have the required documents.
*This information was taken from the South African Governments' online portal.
