In the case of cars and bakkies, a roadworthy certificate is required on change of ownership. In the case of taxis, buses and trucks, roadworthies are required annually, and are a pre-requisiteto the issue of the vehicle licence.

Firstly, the vehicle is identified through the engine, and chassis numbers; and then the electrical system is checked (lights, wiring, indicators etc), tyres; brakes, steering, transmission, body, fittings, windows and doors, windscreen, engine, exhaust system etc).

The examiner will list all the defects, explain these to the customer, who will then have 14 days to effect repairs and re-submit the vehicle for a FREE re-test within those 2 weeks.

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In addition to obtaining a Roadworthy Certificate, the vehicle should obtain a weight certificate and also obtain a Police Clearance certificate. Remember, that the vehicle is unlicensed at this time, so a Temporary Licence is required.

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1. When the engine or chassis number of the vehicle differs from the number on the registration certificate (even if one digit is different).
2. When a vehicle has previously been reported stolen and then recovered.
3. When no documentation is received from the previous owner of the vehicle.

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Firstly, an RPC (Request for Police Clearance) form has to be obtained from any Registering authority; and this together with the vehicle has to be submitted for the clearance procedure at the SAPS Clearance Centre.

SAPS CLEARANCE CENTRE
c/o Labelle and Watt Road Stikland
Tel: (021) 945 3875

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Original registration papers, a declaration or proof that this vehicle has previously been paid for in full and a receipt or agreement of sale.

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A roadworthy certificate is valid for a period of 6 months, and therefore a VALID roadworthy certificate means that the vehicle passed a roadworthiness test within the last 6 months. A vehicle may have driven many miles (or even parts have changed) between the time of the test and the purchase of the vehicle. Check the date of the test on the roadworthy certificate.

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Ensure that the vehicle and the relevant papers match. The new buyers has 21 days to transfer the vehicle onto his name without incurring any penalties.Remember new owners are so "in love"; with their vehicle at the time of purchase, that the obvious defects are ignored, until "buyer remorse" sets in and then they often wish to back out of the deal due to problems that they should have noticed when purchasing the vehicle.

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1. Original registration certificate
2. ID of new owner
3. Receipt or agreement of sale of vehicle
4. Roadworthy certificate

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An affidavit has to be rendered by the new owner at any police station, declaring that this vehicle was honestly purchased, and that no papers were received with the vehicle, and that the previous owner cannot be traced to provide this information. In some cases a Police Clearance may also be required.

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The Auto Technical Test Centre has recently become part of the AVTS Group. This has allowed us to include technical testing by independent experts which not only offers peace of mind to buyers, but can provide an independent report to ensure that repairs have been effected after major overhauls or accidents.

1. A comprehensive vehicle tests the condition of the engine, gearbox, diff, undercarriage, body and interior.
2. A written report on the mechanical condition of vehicle.
3. Minimise disputes and legal action.
4. Check after accident repairs for insurance.
5. Settle disputes between buyer and seller.
6. Provide expert witness representation.
7. Assurance for private customers.