For numerous South Africans, renewing vehicle licenses is often challenging and intricate. However, Apostil.co.za strives to simplify this process, providing swift and efficient assistance to make the experience of vehicle license disc renewals seamless.

What is the difference between a vehicle licence disc and a driver’s license?

Renewing your driver’s licence and renewing the licence disc of your vehicle is not the same thing, although the two processes are often confused with each other and terms are used interchangeably.

To renew your vehicle’s licence disc, you can use a service like the one offered by Apostil.co,za. Officials will require your vehicle’s details including VIN number as well as your green barcoded ID document in order to issue you with a new licence disc. The vehicle licence disc, which must be renewed annually, ensures that your vehicle is legally “on the road” and complies with NATIS requirements.

Your driver’s license, on the other hand, is renewable every 4 years and ensures that you, as an individual, comply with NATIS requirements for safe driving. The application for the renewal of your driver’s license is not the same as the application for renewing your vehicle license disk. This process includes an eye test and physically visiting the Drivers License Testing Center (DLTC) closest to you to submit your renewal application in person.

When to apply for vehicle license disc renewals

Motor vehicle licenses must be renewed annually before their expiration date. Failure to do so may result in late licensing penalties and arrears. A 21-day grace period is granted for those who have not renewed their expired motor vehicle licenses, calculated from the expiry date of the current license disc. Renewal can be done at the relevant registering authority or a designated post office.

Bi-annual motor vehicle license renewal

Buses, categorised as heavy-load motor vehicles or used for public transport, require bi-annual license renewal. This is due to their roadworthiness certification being valid for six months only.

The process of vehicle license disc renewals

Roadworthiness Certificate for specific vehicles

If your vehicle is employed for public transport or is a heavy load motor vehicle, obtaining a roadworthiness certificate is mandatory.

Required documentation for individual vehicle owners

  • Your identity document
  • Proof of residential address (e.g., utility account). If the bill is not in your name, an affidavit from the bill owner confirming your residence is required.
  • For those in informal settlements, an official letter from the ward councillor validating your residential address.
  • Motor vehicle license renewal notice (MVL2) or form ALV if the notice is not received.

Documentation for vehicles registered under an organization or company

  • Business certificate of the organization or company
  • Identity document of the proxy
  • Letter of proxy
  • Motor vehicle license renewal notice (MVL2) or form ALV if the notice is not received.

Which documents do I need for vehicle license disc renewals?

Whether applying online or in person, applicants need to have the following documents:

  • A clear copy of their ID document or card
  • Copy of the existing vehicle license disc
  • Proof of residence for the registered area (not older than three months)
  • Consent letter, if required.

Additionally, it’s essential to note that the cost of renewing your vehicle license varies depending on the vehicle model.

Need assistance?

Get in touch with our team today. We can simplify the process for you and help you renew your vehicle license disc in the fastest time possible!

Please note that Apostil.co.za does not and cannot assist with driver’s licence renewal applications or collections. You also cannot renew your driver’s licence card from outside of South Africa. The applicant must appear in person when applying and collecting licence cards.

We can, however, help you with renewing your vehicle license disk as well as obtaining driver’s licence verification letters. See our pricing and get in touch with us today to learn more about our fast and effective document assistance service!