The province of Gauteng has taken a major step in ensuring credibility of the number plates as the reliable vehicle identifier when MEC Ismail Vadi launched the new number plate series. The launch took place on 30 November 2010, at the Protea Hotel, Midrand in Johannesburg.
The MEC stated that the launch of the new plates is part of a larger plan aimed at reducing the incidence of vehicle fraud and contribute to fighting crime. He also noted that fraudulent number plates facilitate the export of stolen vehicles to neighboring countries, the use of false plates to commit crimes ranging from household burglaries, hijacking as well as bank and cash in transit robberies and the illegal use of a single number plates for a number of vehicle.
The new number plates will be issued only on aluminum and contains a distinctive security feature, a continuous and unbroken wave mark or image running horizontally on the white, retro-reflective plate surface. The number plate's border, letters and numbers are in dark blue and a unique watermark feature. All number plate suppliers will now have to register with the department for proper regulation of the industry.
MEC Vadi said that motorists will be able to keep their old registration plates as the new number plate series is mandatory only to newly-registered vehicles and for transfers of ownership of second-hand vehicles. Those wishing to change to the new system will be allowed to do so. He also announced that the prices for the new plates will be comparable to that of the current plates and will be available at no additional costs.
The first number plate of the new series was officially handed to Premier Nomvula Mokonyane but received by the HoD: Roads and Transport Ms Monama on her behalf.
Source: Gauteng Provincial Government
