The lockdown caused inevitable backlogs at already over-stretched vehicle licensing departments.

Fortunately, you can avoid the long queues – and maintain social distancing – by renewing your car licence online in South Africa.

How to renew your car licence via WhatsApp

A service called ChatBack allows you to renew your car licence via WhatsApp. To get started, scan the QR code on its website or SMS the word “renew” to 44155. Add ChatBack to your contacts and WhatsApp a message on 066 202 6685 to get started.

The renewal process goes as follows:

• submit your vehicle registration number
• you’ll receive a quote that you can pay using your credit or debit card via PayFast
• send your home address for delivery options (you’ll need to attach a copy of your ID and possibly proof of residence)
• your licence will be posted to you or a nearby pickup point, usually within five days
• you can check the progress of your application sending “status” to the WhatsApp number.

A R250 service fee applies that includes paperless email delivery of your licence. In Gauteng, you can get it delivered to your door for R70 or opt for nationwide delivery to your nearest Pargo pickup point for R75.

Services that allow you to renew your car licence online

In some municipalities in South Africa, you can renew your car licence online via the local municipal website or a third-party online service.

Cape Town Municipality

The City of Cape Town’s e-services portal allows online vehicle licence renewal. You’ll need to register as a user beforehand (this takes one business day to clear).

You provide proof of residence and a copy of your ID when you apply for a renewal. Payment is made via EFT and you should receive your licence in the post within 14 business days.

Gauteng

In Gauteng, third-party online services such as RenewOnline and Licence ZA will renew your licence for you.

These services require you to register, pay via EFT or credit card and submit supporting documents.

Your licence will be posted to your home address. Some of these services can deliver to areas outside of Gauteng, such as Limpopo.

Renew your car licence online with FNB or Wesbank

Both FNB and Wesbank offer car licence renewals online for a fee. FNB charges a fee of R199 and the licence is delivered to your door. If you have On Road PROTECT, this service is free.

Wesbank also has a licence renewal service but only for vehicles financed by the bank. The service allows you to pay online and get your licence disc delivered. Terms and conditions apply for both.

Asset-based loans with Pawn My Car

Now you know how to renew your car licence online in South Africa, you can use your fully paid-up car as collateral on an asset-based loan. These loans are based on the value of your vehicle, so there’s no need for credit checks. You can even get one if you’re unemployed.

There are many advantages to getting a short-term loan from Pawn My Car, including:

• simple and discreet application process
• loans are paid out quickly (usually 24 hours or less)
• no credit checks
• credit score isn’t affected
• no early-settlement penalties or hidden fees
• flexible repayment terms
• NCR-compliant interest rates.

With Pawn My Car, you can use a car, bakkie, truck or boat that’s in your name to secure a loan quickly and easily, with no delays or laborious paperwork. For more information, contact us on 0861 112 866 or simply complete and submit our online application form.

Complete an application now