Here’s how to go about getting a personalised number plate:
1. Pick a 7-character (or less) name or number
This will have to be unique and not in use by anyone else. It also cannot be offensive in nature. But don’t worry, there are over 70 billion different combinations you can try. And, if your desired name is not available, you can use a Personal Registration Number brokerage that buys and resells popular vanity plate registrations for you… However, pricing can be as high as R20 000 though!
You need an application form!
Head to your nearest local traffic registry office and complete the application form (SLN1). You will also need to submit:
• A certified copy of your ID document
• A vehicle registration certificate
• Proof of postal/ residential address such as a utility bill
There will be a fee that needs to be paid and this differs depending on your province.
3. Once approved, you will receive the necessary documents
This will include:
• An order letter for the manufacturer giving them permission to make the number plate
• A licensing letter
• A SLN2 form to complete
• A PLN2 certificate stating that you are able to get your desired number plate
4. Register your car and fit the plate
Using the certificate and licensing letter, you can now license your car using your new number plate at the local motor vehicle registering office. An official manufacturer must then create and fit your new number plate.
“In addition to expressing your individuality (and letting the world know that you are a SEXYMOM – WP or SHARK – KZN), these plates are a great way to advertise a business.
“And you’ll be doing your bit for our roads too. Kwazulu-Natal has managed to build 55 bridges and 14 schools with the cash from vanity plates alone!”
The cost of personalized number plates in South Africa
Fees
According to Gumtree Automotive, you can expect to pay an average of around R1,500 for a personalised plate.
However, the group notes that this cost may differ slightly depending on where you apply and what rates are set out by your provincial traffic department.
Notably, the cost of the plate can also differ drastically depending on the number and type of characters you choose to include.
According to the Western Cape’s pricing guidelines, a plate with six digits or letters in the province will cost R2,000.
However, this rises to R10,000 for a plate with a single alpha or numeric character.
You can find a break down of the Western Cape’s personalised number plate fees below to get a better idea of the costs involved.
| Personalised licence number | Fee | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1 x alpha or numeric character | R10 000 | 1 – WP B – WP |
| 2 x alpha and/or numeric characters | R6 000 | 11 – WP 1A – WP AB – WP |
| 3 x alpha and/or numeric characters | R4 000 | 111 – WP ABC – WP |
| All others, up to a maximum of seven characters | R1 750 | JOHNNY2 – WP RUN2ME – WP |
| 3 x digits and letters | R10 000 | CA 1 |
| 4 x digits and letters | R6 000 | CA 11 CAW 1 |
| 6 x digits and letters | R2 000 | CA 1111 CAW 111 |
| All others | R600 | CA 123-456 CAW 12345 |