Get a vehicle clearance certificate if you are driving to Zimbabwe

When traveling from South Africa to Zimbabwe by road it is now a requirement to have a Vehicle Clearance Certificate.

Obtaining the Vehicle Clearance Certificate is a critical step to ensure that the vehicle is not stolen or associated with any criminal activity. This process is mandated by the South African Police Service (SAPS) and involves several steps to complete.

To start, individuals must gather the necessary documents before visiting a SAPS Vehicle Clearance Unit. First, you will need the original Vehicle Registration Certificate or a certified copy. If the vehicle is financed, a Letter of Authorization from the financing institution is required. If the vehicle is not registered in the individual's name, an authorization letter from the vehicle's owner will also be needed. Additionally, travelers must bring a valid identification document such as a passport, as well as a current driver's license. Proof of address, such as a utility bill, must be provided, along with a completed Police Clearance Application Form, which is typically available at the police station. In certain cases, an affidavit may be needed to explain why the vehicle requires police clearance, such as for travel purposes.

Once all the required documents are in order, individuals can visit a SAPS Vehicle Clearance Unit. At the unit, the police will check the vehicle against their database to confirm that it is not stolen or involved in criminal activities. This check is crucial in ensuring that the vehicle is free of legal issues before being allowed to travel across borders.

If the vehicle passes all the necessary checks, the individual will be issued a Police Clearance Certificate. This certificate serves as confirmation that the vehicle is clear of any criminal links and is eligible for temporary travel, such as crossing into Zimbabwe.

For those located in Gauteng, several SAPS Vehicle Clearance Units are available for this process. In Johannesburg, individuals can visit the Langlaagte Testing Station, located at 36 Church Street. Benoni has a Vehicle Clearance Unit at the Benoni Testing Station, situated at 1 Tom Jones Street. In Pretoria, the Waltloo SAPS Vehicle Clearance Unit at 1 Dewar Road is available. For those in Krugersdorp, the Kagiso Testing Station is the designated location for vehicle clearance.

Obtaining a Vehicle Clearance Certificate is an important step for road travelers heading to Zimbabwe. By following these steps and ensuring all documentation is in place, travelers can complete the clearance process without delays.