Roadworthiness Testing

What is vehicle roadworthy testing?

A roadworthy test determines whether a vehicle is safe to drive or not. A vehicle that passes will be awarded a Certificate of Roadworthiness (CoR). The test is a safety examination only and isn't a comprehensive technical examination. The various aspects of the vehicle that must be tested, together with the standards deemed acceptable, are prescribed by law.

A roadworthy test ensures:

• your safety on the road,
• reduces your overall motoring costs, and
• identifies potential hazards and save money by preventing additional damage before it happens.

The roadworthiness test checks the following parts of the car:

• identification and documentation,
• electrical systems,
• fittings and equipment (including windows, mirrors, safety belts etc.),
• braking system,
• wheels (including tyre condition),
• suspension and undercarriage,
• steering,
• engine,
• exhaust system,
• transmission and drive, instruments, and
• vehicle dimensions.

You can get a roadworthiness certificate from any private or public testing station (TS). Download a list of vehicle testing stations in the Western Cape here.

How do I get my vehicle tested?

Go to the testing station of your choice with the following:

• Vehicle's registration certificate (optional-determined by the TS).
• Identity Document (ID) or valid driving licence card.
• Prescribed fee.
• Complete the Application for Certification of Roadworthiness (ACR) form.

When should I get my vehicle tested?

• If you're the owner or operate a private vehicle with a gross vehicle mass less than 3 500 kg (mainly cars and bakkies) you're not required to obtain an annual CoR. The only time you must obtain a CoR, by law, is during a change of ownership.
• If you're the owner or operate a vehicle with a gross vehicle less than 3 500 kg that you operate for reward (cars used as taxis or e-hailing services and minibus taxis), you're required by law to obtain a CoR every 12 months.
• If you're the owner or operate a vehicle with a gross vehicle mass greater than 3 500 kg (mainly trucks) you're required by law to obtain a CoR every 12 months.
• If you're the owner or operate buses. you are required to obtain a CoR every 6 months.
• A roadworthy test must be conducted every time a vehicle changes ownership. The test, which is a legal requirement, takes approximately 30 minutes and ensures vehicles meet the safety standards defined by the SABS.
• You will not receive a vehicle licence disc without a valid roadworthy certificate where required.

Forms to complete

ACR forms are available at your nearest testing station or you can download them from  https://www.natis.gov.za -click on downloads – click on forms -click on road traffic related forms – look for Application for certification of roadworthiness (Form ACR)

Sources: NaTiS, The AA of South Africa