If you’re registering a new vehicle or replacing damaged or lost number plates, it’s important to know what costs to expect. The price of number plates in South Africa depends on your province, the type of vehicle, and whether you want a standard or personalized plate.
Standard Number Plate Costs
As of 2025, the cost of a standard vehicle number plate typically ranges between:
- R125 and R250
- Prices vary by province and by whether you drive a car, motorcycle, or trailer
- You may also pay an additional fitting or installation fee (usually around R50–R100)
Personalized / Customized Plates
If you want to stand out, you can apply for a personalized number plate, which allows you to choose your own combination of letters and numbers.
Here’s what you can expect to pay:
| Type of Personalized Plate | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Basic custom plate (e.g. “JAY123GP”) | R1,000 – R2,000 |
| Fully personalized plate (e.g. “MYCAR”) | R6,000 – R20,000+ |
| Exclusive/custom formats | R20,000+ |
Prices vary significantly between provinces, and additional admin or registration fees may apply.
Where to Apply
- You can order number plates at:
- Your local licensing office
- Approved number plate vendors
- Check with your province’s licensing department or visit www.natis.gov.za for the latest pricing and approved service providers
Tips Before You Buy
- Compare prices from different vendors : some include fitting and some don’t
- Make sure your number plate provider is SABS-approved
- If applying for a custom plate, prepare to wait a few weeks for processing and manufacturing
- Keep your receipt : replacement plates may be cheaper if you have proof of purchase