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Code 3 Car Ownership Transfer Process - South Africa Guide

Overview: What the Code 3 car ownership transfer search means

Many vehicle owners searching for "Code 3 car ownership transfer process" are trying to confirm a specific transaction type shown on an eNatis/licensing form or on correspondence from a licensing authority. Usage of code labels can vary by province or by system export, so this guide focuses on the standard South African ownership transfer process while explaining where a Code 3 label is likely to appear and how to handle it.

If you see a Code 3 reference on your paperwork, it most often identifies a transaction type or a transfer sub-category used by the licensing authority. Because the exact meaning of Code 3 can differ regionally, always verify the code with your local licensing office. Meanwhile, the practical steps below apply in most transfer situations across metros such as Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and surrounding regions.

Quick note

If the vehicle is under finance, written off, or flagged with a special code (like Code 3), speak to your bank or the registering authority before attempting to finalise a transfer.

When to transfer ownership (and when to pause)

Transfer ownership as soon as the sale is concluded or the vehicle is given to a buyer/agent. Prompt transfer protects both seller and buyer from liability (fines, tolls, or offences recorded against the vehicle). Pause and seek clarity when:

The vehicle has an outstanding finance agreement or a bank holds a clearance certificate.
The registration document mentions an unclear code (for example Code 3) you cannot verify with the local licensing office.
There are discrepancies in ID, VIN/chassis number or engine number.

How the standard ownership transfer process works

The following outlines the practical steps to transfer a vehicle in South Africa. Variations can occur between municipal licensing offices and provinces, and some elements will be different if the transfer is handled electronically via eNatis or by a dealer.

Step-by-step

Prepare documentation: ID for buyer and seller, vehicle registration certificate (logbook), valid roadworthy certificate if required by the buyer or the office, proof of address, and the signed transfer section of the registration document. If a code or special note (for instance Code 3) appears, bring any related correspondence.
Settle finance: If the vehicle is financed, obtain a clearance letter from the finance house or arrange for settlement before transfer.
Visit a licensing office or agent: Either party can submit the transfer documents to the local registering authority or use an accredited agent. Many transfers are processed through the eNatis system.
Pay transfer fees: A transfer fee applies (varies by province). Keep receipts. The licensing office updates the register and issues a new registration document to the buyer.

Common variations

Dealers and fleet agents often process transfers on behalf of private sellers; in that case the agent will request a power of attorney or signed authorisation. For salvage, written-off or insurer-led transfers there are additional forms and possible inspections; these may be represented by a special code on the record - check local requirements.

Repair cost vs value retained (example estimates for SA)

Repair cost (estimate)	Typical effect on private resale value	Notes (SA context)
R5,000	Minor increase, often <10% uplift	Small panel or bumper repairs - buyer confidence improves.
R20,000	Moderate uplift; may not fully cover cost	Structural repairs or moderate mechanical work; costs often exceed resale benefit.
R50,000+	Unlikely to be recouped via resale	Major accident repair; consider alternative outcomes like salvage sale or insurance settlement.

Figures are illustrative estimates for South Africa and will vary by vehicle age, make, model and regional demand. Use these as a planning guide rather than definitive pricing.

For an overview of alternatives when a vehicle does not run, see our resource on Sell Non-Running Car.

Damage types vs typical transfer impact

Damage type	How it affects transfer	Typical documentation needed
Minor cosmetic damage	Transfer proceeds normally	Standard registration cert and ID
Structural/accident damage	May require inspection or insurer paperwork; special flags can appear in the register	Repair invoices, insurer write-off letters, or salvage declarations
Under finance	Transfer needs bank clearance or settlement	Bank clearance letter or settlement documents

For background on selling damaged or non-running vehicles and how transfer differs in those situations, see Sell Damaged Cars.

Legal & paperwork specifics in South Africa

Legally, the registered owner remains responsible for the vehicle until the transfer is recorded by the licensing authority. Typical paperwork includes the completed transfer section of the registration certificate, IDs, proof of address, and payment of the transfer fee. When executing a transfer, keep copies of all documents and payment receipts.

Special cases: finance, written-off and salvage vehicles

Vehicles under finance: the bank or finance house normally holds the registration or a bond. Transfers will only proceed with a clearance letter or settlement. Written-off/salvage: insurers may issue a write-off code or instruction; the vehicle can require an inspection and may have a special note on the register (sometimes recorded as a code). If Code 3 appears and you are unsure, check directly with the licensing office to confirm what it signifies for the vehicle record.

Tips to make the transfer smooth and protect yourself

Confirm the meaning of any codes (including Code 3) with your local registering authority before finalising the sale.
Obtain a clearance letter if the vehicle was financed or get proof of settlement in writing.
Keep signed transfer documents and hand a copy to the buyer; request written confirmation once the transfer is complete.
If you sell a non-running or heavily damaged car, consider specialist services that handle collection and admin to avoid logistics headaches - see our overview on the homepage.

What happens after transfer is lodged

Once the licensing authority records the transfer, the new owner is issued an updated registration certificate (or an electronic confirmation through eNatis). Keep a copy of the transfer receipt until the new certificate arrives. If you notice the transfer has not been registered within a reasonable timeframe, follow up with the licensing office and provide proof of submission and payment.

Experience-based example (South Africa)

Example: A Johannesburg private sale where the seller had no outstanding finance. Both parties visited a municipal licensing office with ID, the signed registration document and R150 transfer fee (example figure). The office processed the eNatis update and issued a receipt; the buyer received a new registration certificate within two weeks. Note: the R150 fee is an illustrative example; actual fees differ by province and may change.

Additional resources and guidance

For more detail on how transfers are handled and to avoid common pitfalls, review official guidance and reputable motoring organisations. If you are unsure about Code 3 on your paperwork, contact the local licensing office or an accredited agent for a definitive interpretation. For practical help selling a damaged or non-running vehicle and assistance with collection and paperwork, the Sell Your Damaged Car service handles nationwide logistics and admin - see our About page for process details at About / How it works.

Code 3 Car Ownership Transfer Process in South Africa - Step-by-Step Guide

Confirm Any Code Meanings

Prepare & Verify Documents

Follow Official Steps

Overview: What the Code 3 car ownership transfer search means

Quick note

When to transfer ownership (and when to pause)

How the standard ownership transfer process works

Step-by-step

Common variations

Repair cost vs value retained (example estimates for SA)

Damage types vs typical transfer impact

Legal & paperwork specifics in South Africa

Special cases: finance, written-off and salvage vehicles

Tips to make the transfer smooth and protect yourself

What happens after transfer is lodged

Experience-based example (South Africa)

Additional resources and guidance

Sources

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