Correcting misinformation on social media about roadworthy certificates

In response to misinformation circulated on social media regarding the issuing of so-called “temporary” roadworthy certificates during the National State of Disaster, the Department of Transport and Public Works (DTPW) wishes to set the record straight. Firstly, there is no such thing as a temporary roadworthy certificate. Secondly, no vehicle testing stations (VTSs) have been given permission to reopen.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and the National Department of Transport (NDOT) will only approve the reopening of driving licence testing centres (DLTCs), VTSs and registering authorities (RAs) once they have satisfied themselves that all provisions relating to the protection of members of the public and employees from COVID-19 are in place.

In addition, when the RTMC and NDOT start to reopen facilities, they will do so using a phased approach with participation from national, provincial and local authorities.

DTPW has circulated an RMTC template that must be filled in by all DLTCs, private VTSs and RAs in the Western Cape regarding their COVID-19 readiness. This information will form the basis of a provincial risk management strategy. This strategy will be submitted to the RTMC and NDOT for their consideration.

To directly refute the misinformation that has been circulating on social media:

1. No VTS in the Western Cape has been granted permission to resume roadworthiness testing.
2. There is no such thing as a temporary roadworthy certificate.
3. No motor dealers or vehicle finance institutions may accept such a document.
4. Only when a VTS has been given permission to reopen will any roadworthy test it performs be accepted by the NaTIS system.

Issued by:

Michael Gallant
Transport Administration And Licencing
Department of Transport and Public Works
Email: Michael.Gallant@westerncape.gov.za