Part of the process of buying a vehicle is transferring the title into your name. This comes at a price and there are costs involved in doing so. In this article we look at the required documents and the cost of a change of ownership, as well as how long you can expect it to take.
Published: 18 September 2023, 15:39 Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes Photo GridIn South Africa, changing the ownership of a vehicle involves several steps, and the cost associated with this process can vary depending on your specific circumstances. Here's a condensed guide on the costs involved in changing the ownership of a car in South Africa:
When you sell your vehicle, you must inform the registering authority within 21 days using the Notification of Change of Ownership/Sale of Motor Vehicle (NCO) form. The new owner is responsible for registering the car in their name.
The cost of changing ownership depends on factors like your province and specific requirements. It's essential to contact your local licensing office to determine the exact fees applicable to your situation. These fees can include registration, licensing, and other administrative charges. The cost for the change of ownership alone was adjusted and gazetted in May this year, capping the pricing at R330.
This is naturally subject to change at any given time, so always check with your local registering authority.
To facilitate the change of ownership, you'll need to gather the following documents:
For the Seller:
- Identification document (ID) if you're a South African citizen.
- For foreign citizens, the original and certified copy of your foreign ID and temporary residence permit.
- Proof of your residential address, such as a utility bill. If it's not in your name, an affidavit from the bill owner confirming your residence is necessary.
- If you live in an informal settlement, you'll need an official letter from your ward councillor verifying your address.
- Complete and submit the Notification of Change of Ownership/Sale of Motor Vehicle (NCO) form.
For the Buyer:
- Complete the Application for Registration and Licensing of Motor Vehicle form (RLV).
- Submit the vehicle registration certificate if it was previously registered in South Africa.
- Provide a mass measuring certificate if the vehicle's tare weight has changed.
- Include a roadworthiness certificate.
- If the vehicle is registered under a company, submit a certificate of incorporation or a name change document as per the Companies Act or a founding statement.
Both Parties:
- If you are a foreign citizen, complete both the Notification of Change of Ownership/Sale of Motor Vehicle (NCO) form and the Notice in Respect of Traffic Register Number (ANR) form.
Applications are typically processed on the same day, ensuring a swift transition of ownership.
In some cases, you may be required to provide additional proof of your right to register as the title holder. This can include invoices or sales agreements. If uncertain, contact your local call center or registering authority for guidance.
In summary, the cost of changing ownership of a car in South Africa varies by province and specific circumstances. To determine the exact fees, consult your local licensing office. Ensure you have the necessary documents, and the process usually concludes within the same day for a smooth transition of ownership.
Chad Lückhoff With over 18 years of motorsport commentary and a passion for 90s Japanese Sports Cars, Chad Lückhoff is happiest when surrounded by drift cars and smoking tyres. His experience as the Technical Editor of the country’s top tuning magazine means that it’s the nuts and bolts of motoring that tickles his fancy. As comfortable in front of the camera as he is behind it, he’ll take you behind the wheel with his video reviews, written recounts, and invoking photography. One of the first to join the AutoTrader fray, Chad has been living his passion at AutoTrader for over 7-years. View News & Reviews