Getting a car in South Africa will take a lot of footwork, but if done right you'll be off your feet and onto your wheels in no time. Here are some suggestions to make the process go a bit smoother:

Vehicle History Check
LHere, nearly at the bottom of the world, less than ethical vehicle vendors can, and do, take advantage of not-so-savvy expats. No matter who you buy from - a private party or a dealer - first ensure the vehicle you are planning to buy hasn't been stolen and doesn't have any outstanding financial liens attached to it.

To have your car fully checked out, we recommend the Automobile Association Autocheck Service. They'll do this for a mere R125. Contact AA Autocheck on 0861-601-601 to make an appointment. Make sure to bring:

- vehicle registration number (VIN) and the 17-digit chassis number
- engine number
- R125

Vehicle Inspections
Like anywhere else, you have to make sure the vehicle you're smitten with really is as good as it looks. It is mandatory to have a used vehicle certified "roadworthy" for registration. Therefore, a vehicle inspection covering the vehicle's mechanicals, electrical system, brakes and tyres is a must.

This can be done by booking a comprehensive inspection at any number of vehicle inspection centres. The Automobile Association inspects passenger cars and small pickup trucks for under R800. You can also check around at petrol stations for independent mechanics who offer the same service, as their prices are often much lower. Whatever you pay for your vehicle inspection, you'll have to add an additional R225 to receive an actual Roadworthy Certificate. Without this little piece of documentation, you will not be able to re-register your used vehicle.

Drivers Licences
While you can use your overseas license in South Africa, it's not a bad idea to pick up an International Driver's Licenses as not all police are aware of the legalities around driving licenses. You can pick up a license at all AA outlets for approximately R250 per year.

AA Test & Drive Centres in South Africa Gauteng: Pretoria: (012) 335-3850 Midrand: (011) 315-2296 Boksburg: (011) 826-4386 Randburg: (011) 781-0366 Westgate (Roodepoort): (011) 768-0642

Western Cape: Cape Town: (021) 462-4426 Parow: (021) 930-2550

Eastern Cape: East London: (043) 743-9880/1 Port Elizabeth: (041) 484-5323

Free State: Bloemfontein: (051) 448-3279

Kwa-Zulu Natal: Durban: (031) 332-9212

Vehicle Registration
For the uninitiated, registering your vehicle can be quite traumatic, but fear not. Here's the scoop to get you through it with the least amount of muss, fuss and mental shredding.

When you buy a motor vehicle anywhere in South Africa, you must register and licence it in your name within twenty-one days of purchase. To prepare for registering a new vehicle, you must have in your possession:

- your passport
- registration and licensing form
- manufacturer's certificate containing all relevant details about the vehicle
- roadworthy certificate
- R69 fee

When buying a new or used car from a dealer, they will normally go through all the pain for you. But when registering pre-owned wheels on your own, you'll also need:

- vehicle's registration certificate (in the seller's name)
- valid motor vehicle license

Licensing Your Newly Acquired Vehicle
Once vehicle registration is achieved, you still will need a license. But before you can move forward, you have to make sure all arrears, penalties and fees attached to the vehicle are paid in full. In South Africa, license fees depend upon the weight and tare of the vehicle so they will vary.

For Licensing Offices and Testing Stations in Johannesburg and area visit the City of Johannesburg website .

For Licensing Offices and Testing Stations in Cape Town and area visit the Cape Town government website.

For Licensing Offices and Testing Stations across South Africa and for additional motor vehicle registration issues visit the South African Services website.