Getting a Roadworthy Certificate, also known as a Safety Certificate, is one of the most crucial procedures in the South African car-buying or car-selling process. This paper certifies that driving a car on public roads is safe. However, what elements affect the cost of obtaining a safety certificate in South Africa, and how much does it truly cost?
Let’s dissect it in this guide.
What is a Safety Certificate (Roadworthy Certificate)?
A safety certificate is issued by an accredited testing station after a vehicle passes a roadworthiness inspection. This inspection checks the essential components of your car to ensure everything is working properly and meets the legal safety standards. This includes:
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Brakes
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Lights
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Suspension
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Steering
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Tyres
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Bodywork
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Windscreen and windows
You’ll need this certificate when:
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Selling a vehicle
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Re-registering a vehicle
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Registering a used vehicle
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Converting a vehicle from unfit to roadworthy
So, How Much Does It Cost?
The cost of getting a safety certificate in South Africa varies depending on a few factors like the type of vehicle, location, and testing station. But here’s a general breakdown of the current 2024 pricing:
| Vehicle Type | Estimated Cost (ZAR) |
|---|---|
| Light motor vehicles | R300 – R500 |
| Motorcycles | R150 – R250 |
| Heavy vehicles | R500 – R1000+ |
Prices may vary slightly between provinces and private vs. public testing stations.
Keep in mind: If your vehicle fails the inspection, you’ll need to fix the problems and retake the test, which might incur additional costs.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the inspection fee itself isn’t too steep, it’s worth noting that any repairs or maintenance needed to pass the test will cost extra. Common expenses might include:
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Replacing bald tyres
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Fixing faulty lights
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Repairing brake pads
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Replacing cracked windshields
It’s smart to do a pre-inspection check with a mechanic before heading to the testing station. It could save you both time and money.
Where Can You Get a Safety Certificate?
You can get your vehicle tested at any accredited roadworthy testing center—either government-run or private. Some well-known centers in South Africa include:
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AVTS Testing Stations
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DEKRA Automotive
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Roadworthy Centres (various franchises)
Always call ahead or check online for pricing and availability in your area.
How Long Is the Safety Certificate Valid?
A roadworthy certificate is valid for 60 days from the date of issue. If you’re selling your car, make sure the certificate is still valid at the time of sale—or you may need to get a new one.
Final Thoughts
Getting a safety certificate in South Africa is a legal requirement and an essential part of ensuring that vehicles on the road are safe for everyone. While the cost is relatively affordable, failing the inspection can lead to unexpected expenses, so it’s best to be proactive with vehicle maintenance.