How to Register a Botswana Vehicle in South Africa

The registration of a Botswana car in South Africa cannot be legally done without being in Botswana for extended periods of time or returning home with your car. Imported vehicles can be temporarily stored at a TIP. If you buy a car locally, then it is just a matter of choice.

If you want to register an imported vehicle in South Africa, you must do so at your relevant registering authority.

The following documents are required:

  • eNaTIS form (MVR1A or RLV);
  • RSA identity document;
  • If you do not have an RSA identity document:
    • Identity document issued by a foreign country or
    • Traffic register number certificate
  • Documents relating to the registration and licensing of the motor vehicle outside the RSA.
  • Letter of authority (LOA)(link is external) from the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications

If you want to register the vehicle in a company name, you must have:

  • A certificate of incorporation as issued in terms of the Companies Act or;
  • A certificate of the name change as issued in terms of the Companies Act.
  • If you want to register the vehicle in the name of a closed corporation, you must have:
    • A founding statement issued in terms of the Close Corporations Act or;
    • A certificate of the name change was issued in terms of the Close Corporations Act.

Before the vehicle can be registered, you must get a South African Police Service (SAPS) clearance certificate. This is only issued after the registering authority has issued you with a referral and registration certificate.

The Customs and Excise Division of the South African Revenue Service (SARS) will provide the required proof of compliance with their regulations and procedures. You are advised to contact SARS for further information.

Find out more on the eNaTIS(link is external) website.

Who to contact

Can a Botswana car be registered in South Africa?

The registration of a Botswana car in South Africa cannot be legally done without being in Botswana for extended periods of time or returning home with your car. Imported vehicles can be temporarily stored at a TIP. If you buy a car locally, then it is just a matter of choice.

Are foreign cars allowed in South Africa?

You can only import a second-hand vehicle into South Africa if you have been granted a permit to do so. The importation of used vehicles is restricted to protect the local motor vehicle manufacturing industry. Permits are only issued under specifically defined circumstances.

Are foreign number plates valid in South Africa?

If the vehicle is foreign registered it may only remain in South Africa for a maximum of three months each year. Passports and proof of residence in the foreign state can be requested; likewise temporary import permits (TIPS).

How do I register a car in Botswana?

Vehicle Registration and Licencing

  1. Download and complete the Vehicle Registration Form(RV 1) form, then attach the clearance form from Botswana Police Service and BURS.
  2. If the applicant is registering a vehicle that is more than three years and above (from the year of manufacture), it must have passed a roadworthiness test.

How long can I drive a Botswana car in South Africa?

How long is the driving period in South Africa for foreign cars? If the car has foreign registration, it will only be in South Africa forĀ a year. In that case, it is also possible to submit passports and paperwork demonstrating residency in another country.