How To Get a Roadworthy Certificate in South Africa

A roadworthy certificate, also called a Certificate of Roadworthiness or CoR, confirms that a vehicle has passed a basic safety inspection and is fit to be used on public roads.

A roadworthy test is a safety check. It is not a full mechanical inspection and does not guarantee that the vehicle is accident-free, fault-free, or in good long-term condition.

When Is a Roadworthy Required?

You generally need a roadworthy certificate when a vehicle is being registered in a new owner’s name or when ownership changes.

Certain vehicles must be tested more regularly. Vehicles used for public transport or reward, heavy-load vehicles, and buses may have annual or six-monthly roadworthy requirements depending on the vehicle type and use.

For ordinary private cars and bakkies under 3 500 kg, a roadworthy is usually required when ownership changes, not every year simply because the vehicle is old.

Where Do You Go?

The vehicle must be taken to a registered public or private vehicle testing station. It is best to contact the testing station before going, as fees, booking requirements, and document requirements can differ.

What Must You Take With You?

When going for a roadworthy test, you should take:

•⁠ ⁠The vehicle being tested
•⁠ ⁠Your ID or valid driving licence card
•⁠ ⁠The vehicle registration certificate, if required by the testing station
•⁠ ⁠The prescribed testing fee
•⁠ ⁠A completed Application for Certification of Roadworthiness form, also known as the ACR form

You can download the ACR form here: Download the ACR roadworthy form

Can Someone Else Take the Vehicle?

Yes, in many cases the person presenting the vehicle does not have to be the registered owner. A family member, employee, company representative, proxy, or other authorised person may usually take the vehicle to the testing station.

To avoid delays, that person should bring their own ID or driving licence. If the vehicle belongs to a company or another person, it is also a good idea to bring a simple written authorisation letter and any relevant company or proxy details.

What Does the Test Check?

The roadworthy test checks the vehicle’s basic safety condition, including:

•⁠ ⁠Vehicle identification and documentation
•⁠ ⁠Lights and electrical systems
•⁠ ⁠Brakes
•⁠ ⁠Tyres and wheels
•⁠ ⁠Steering
•⁠ ⁠Suspension and undercarriage
•⁠ ⁠Seatbelts, mirrors, windows, and other fittings
•⁠ ⁠Engine, exhaust, and transmission
•⁠ ⁠Vehicle dimensions and general safety items

What Happens After the Test?

If the vehicle passes, the testing station issues the roadworthy result/certificate on the system.

If the vehicle fails, the testing station will identify the defects that need to be fixed. The vehicle must then be repaired and taken back for retesting.

Important Note

A roadworthy certificate is only a legal safety check. If you are buying a used vehicle, it is still wise to get an independent mechanical inspection before completing the purchase.

Sources: South African Government, Western Cape Government, NaTIS ACR form download.