Step-by-Step Accident Paperwork for a Private Car Sale After a Crash (South Africa)

Overview

Selling a private car after a crash requires careful handling of paperwork to protect both seller and buyer. This guide walks through the typical documents, legal steps, and real-world considerations in South Africa so you can complete a private sale confidently and compliantly. The term "accident paperwork" in this article refers to documents that record the incident, prove ownership, disclose damage and confirm settlement of finance or insurance where relevant.

When to Sell vs Repair

Deciding whether to repair before a private sale depends on repair cost, remaining market value and how the damage affects safety and roadworthiness. Many owners find selling as-is is faster and avoids transport and repair logistics. If you are unsure, compare estimated repair costs against likely retained value after repair.

Quick note on valuations

Market demand for salvage parts and the model’s popularity affect private-sale outcomes. If you want an immediate alternative to private sale, consider a specialist buyer that purchases damaged vehicles in any condition and handles towing and admin. See how that process works on our About / How it works page for more context.

How the Paperwork Process Typically Works

Below is a stepwise outline of the common paperwork and checks when selling privately after an accident in South Africa. Exact requirements can vary by province, so confirm details with your local licensing office.

1. Collect the police accident report (if one was filed) or record of the incident. This documents the event and is useful for transparency with buyers and insurers.
2. Obtain proof of ownership: the original vehicle registration document (or a certified copy) and a valid ID for the seller.
3. If the vehicle is under finance, request a settlement figure from the finance house and obtain written proof that the account will be cleared on sale or that transfer can proceed on settlement.
4. Prepare a damage disclosure statement that lists known faults, repairs carried out, and whether the vehicle was written-off by an insurer. Honesty reduces later disputes.
5. Complete the prescribed transfer forms at the licensing office (or use an accredited agent). The buyer and seller signatures are required and the forms differ slightly by province.

For owners who prefer not to manage these steps, an alternative is to use a specialist buyer experienced with accident paperwork and deregistration. Learn more about selling non-running vehicles and damaged cars on our site: Sell Non-Running Car and Sell Damaged Cars.

Legal & Paperwork Details in South Africa

Key legal items to address when completing a private sale after an accident include transfer of ownership, clearance of any outstanding finance, and deregistration where the vehicle is not roadworthy. The buyer will typically require a roadworthy certificate if they intend to drive the vehicle on public roads after purchase; however, parties can agree to a sale as-is (written agreement recommended).

Documents checklist

• Vehicle registration book or certificate
• Certified copy of the seller’s ID
• Police accident report or incident reference (if applicable)
• Finance settlement letter or clearance certificate
• Signed transfer forms from your local licensing office
• A written damage disclosure statement signed by both parties

Tips to Maximise Transparency and Reduce Risk

• Provide clear photos from multiple angles and include close-ups of damage; buyers value visual evidence.
• Be upfront about airbag deployment or insurer write-off status; document this in your disclosure to avoid future claims.
• If your vehicle is still financed, obtain a settlement figure and present it to prospective buyers so they understand the transfer steps.
• Use a signed written agreement for an as-is private sale that records what was disclosed and what is excluded.

What Happens After the Sale Is Agreed

Once buyer and seller agree terms, the transfer forms must be completed and lodged at the local licensing office. Transfer fees vary by province; typical administrative fees might range from approximately R200 to R800 (estimates only - check your provincial office for exact amounts). If the buyer intends to road-register the vehicle and it is not roadworthy, they will usually arrange repairs and obtain a roadworthy certificate before or after transfer depending on the agreement.

If you choose a specialist buyer instead of a private sale, that buyer may handle deregistration, towing and settlement of finance on your behalf. For an example of an alternative that handles collection and paperwork nationwide, see the homepage explanation of our process: Sell Your Damaged Car homepage.

Practical example

Scenario: Johannesburg owner with a non-running Corolla after a collision. They obtain the police report, request a finance settlement from their bank (R45,000 outstanding, example only), prepare a signed damage disclosure and complete transfer documents with the buyer. Settlement of the finance is confirmed in writing and the licensing office files the transfer - the documentation trail protects both parties.

Final Checklist Before You Exchange Ownership

• Police report or incident reference (if available)
• Proof of ownership and ID copies
• Finance settlement/clearance or written plan to settle
• Signed damage disclosure statement
• Completed transfer forms lodged at licensing office

Sources

• South African Government - Vehicle registration and licensing
• Automobile Association (AA) South Africa - Advice on selling vehicles
• Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) - National traffic information