Question 1

What is a police clearance for a vehicle and why is it necessary?

Accepted Answer

A police clearance verifies that a vehicle or its components (like the engine or VIN) are not stolen and meet legal compliance standards. It's required for processes like registration, engine replacement, vehicle rebuilding, and ownership transfers.

Question 2

My vehicle was previously stolen and recovered. Do I need police clearance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your vehicle was reported stolen and has since been recovered, the “S” mark must be removed from the system by the investigating officer. After that, the vehicle must be inspected at the SAPS clearance unit before it can be legally used, sold, or have its license renewed.

Question 3

I replaced my engine. Do I need to get it cleared?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. A replacement engine must go through a police clearance to update the engine number on the eNatis system. Without this step, you won’t be able to:
 • Renew your vehicle’s license
 • Obtain a roadworthy certificate
 • Transfer ownership

Question 4

What if my new engine doesn’t have a stamped number?

Accepted Answer

If the replacement engine block is blank:
 • SAPS will assign you a new engine number.
 • You must physically stamp this number onto the engine block.
 • The stamped engine must be taken to SAPS for verification to update      the system.

Question 5

Do rebuilt or assembled vehicles require clearance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Vehicles that are rebuilt from parts or previously written off must be cleared to ensure that no stolen parts were used. SAPS will also assign a new unique ID number to the rebuilt vehicle during this process.

Question 6

Can I update or correct my VIN number?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Any changes or corrections to your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) require police clearance. This ensures that the correct information is captured in the eNatis database and prevents issues during licensing or sale.

Question 7

What happens if I skip the police clearance process?

Accepted Answer

Failure to obtain the necessary police clearance can lead to:
 • Inability to register, license, or sell the vehicle
 • Delays in roadworthiness testing
 • Possible legal consequences for operating a vehicle with unverified components

Question 8

Do you assist with the full police clearance process?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We handle the entire process on your behalf, including booking appointments, compiling required documentation, and liaising with SAPS clearance units to ensure a smooth and compliant outcome

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS — VEHICLE CLEARANCE & EXPORTS FROM SOUTH AFRICA

EXPORT FAQ

CLEARANCE FAQ

What sets your services apart from other export companies?

How do you simplify the export process for dealerships?

Do you only export new vehicles?

What services do you offer to dealerships?

Are export costs fixed or variable?

Can I buy more than one vehicle at a time?

How long will it take to receive my vehicle?

Can I buy and export a vehicle directly from South Africa?

Can I trust the condition of the vehicle I am purchasing?

What paperwork do I need to import the vehicle?

Is my vehicle insured during transit?

Can I track the progress of my vehicle's road freight?