Where do I go for a Roadworthy Test and How Much does it Cost?

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A 2014 article1 mentions that up to 80% of cars travelling on roads in the Western Cape and Kwa-Zulu Natal are not roadworthy. Add to that the many false roadworthy certificates that are being issued and we have a serious road safety situation on our hands. Knowing this can be quite unsettling. In other words, should you suddenly have to stop, a car travelling behind you may fail to stop because of faulty brakes. No wonder a roadworthy test is compulsory by law.

NON-ROADWORTHY CARS CAUSE ACCIDENTS

It has been estimated that up to 9% of all vehicle accidents can be blamed on their non-roadworthy condition.  

WHAT IS A ROADWORTHY CERTIFICATE?

The law dictates that before you register a car in your name, you have to have arrange for the car to undergo a roadworthy test. When your car is used for public transport, it has to be tested for roadworthiness every year before renewing the motor vehicle licence. After the test, a roadworthy certificate is issued. 

WHAT IS INVOLVED WITH A ROADWORTHY TEST?

The test comprises the car’s identification and other documentation, electrical systems, mirror, safety belts, the braking system, and the wheels and condition of the tyres.  In addition, the suspension, undercarriage, steering, transmission, instrumentation, the engine and exhaust system are tested. Finally, the car’s dimensions are also checked.

WHAT A ROADWORTHY TEST IS NOT

The test does not involve a thorough technical evaluation of a car, but only those procedures as prescribed by law are followed. 

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN BUYING A CAR FROM A DEALERSHIP?

If you purchase a car from a particular dealership, they will usually arrange the roadworthy test on your behalf. However, when you buy a car through a private deal, the onus is on you to arrange for a roadworthy test. 

WHERE CAN YOU TAKE YOUR CAR TO HAVE IT TESTED?

You can go to over 500 stations nationwide. Municipal test centres also available.

PRIVATE CENTRES WHICH PROVIDE CAR ROADWORTHY TESTS

A private roadworthy testing company called DEKRA Automotive started in South Africa in 2008. The company is backed by a mother company called DEKRA Germany, which happens to be a world leader in roadworthy tests. DEKRA is well-known for its highest levels of expertise and quality, and has over 40 testing stations nationwide. 

HOW DOES DEKRA OPERATE?

This company closely follows the National Road Traffic Act regulations as well as SANS 10047/SANS 10216, when conducting roadworthiness tests. 

WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE TO FOLLOW?

Once you have selected a testing centre, take along with your car’s registration certificate, your ID document, as well as the required fee (see later). At the centre, you need to complete the ACR or Application for Certification of Roadworthiness form. 

HOW LONG DOES THE TEST TAKE?

The test is completed on the same day.

HOW MUCH DOES THE ROADWORTHY TEST COST?

It’s important to bring cash along to be on the safe side as some centres may not accept credit cards. Fees are for the application and the test. The pricing is similar in all provinces. Private testing centres do not follow Government prices, and it’s best to contact a particular centre beforehand to establish the latest prices. A Cape Town-based AVTS 2018 pricelist8 revealed that the test costs (VAT included) R500 (cars and bakkies), motorcycles (R340), panel vans (R500), and mini-buses (R520).

DON’T FORGET ABOUT CAR INSURANCE

Remember, that for insurance purposes, your car needs to be roadworthy. If for instance your car’s tyres were found to be smooth and thus illegal after a road accident, your insurance claim may well be rejected. Talking of which, why not buy affordable car insurance with PMD?

Disclaimer:

This article was prepared by Eric Sandmann in his personal capacity. The views and opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not reflect the views and opinions of Prime Meridian Direct (Pty) Ltd, FSP41040 (car insurance and life cover products). The views and opinions in the article should not be attributed to anyone but the author unless expressly stated. Nothing in this article should be relied upon as advice, this publication is presented for informational purposes only. No person should act or refrain from acting in reliance on any information found in this article, without first obtaining proper financial advice from the appropriate professional. The author makes no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, or completeness, of any information linked from, referred to, or contained in this article. The author reserves the right, to edit and change the content of this article.