Lesufi Launches New Gauteng Number Plate System to Curb Crime

In a decisive step toward modernising vehicle registration and strengthening public safety, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi has launched a new number plate system set to transform how the province tracks and monitors vehicles. Unveiled at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, the new plates introduce enhanced security features and support Gauteng’s broader strategy to fight crime and improve governance.

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Why Gauteng Needed a New Number Plate System

The current vehicle registration format in Gauteng is quickly running out of combinations, prompting the urgent need for change. Lesufi explained that the province has already cycled through previous formats—from the yellow plates ending in ‘T’ (for Transvaal) to the current system featuring two letters, two numbers, and two more letters (e.g., AB 12 CD GP). This sequence is nearing exhaustion.

“We moved from the old system to GP. Then we moved to two letters, two numbers, and two letters again, but we’re almost out of options,” Lesufi stated. “We used this opportunity to build a completely new, digital registration system that’s traceable and secure.”

The newly introduced format will consist of three letters followed by three numbers, ending with the familiar ‘GP’ designation (e.g., ABC 123 GP). This change addresses logistical limitations while serving as a foundational upgrade for law enforcement and administrative planning.

New Number Plates Bring Crime-Fighting Tech to the Roads

The updated plates go far beyond a format change—they bring a new level of technological sophistication. Each plate includes a QR code and a track-and-trace system to help law enforcement identify vehicles faster and more accurately.

Lesufi underscored the significance: “Eighty-five percent of all crimes committed in Gauteng involve a motor vehicle—whether as a getaway, a stolen asset, or with faulty registration. If we’re serious about tackling crime, we must overhaul our registration system.”

This digital tracking capability will assist in curbing hijackings, car thefts, and the use of cloned plates in criminal activities.

Built-In Security and National Identity

To prevent tampering and forgery, the new number plates will feature a tamper-evident security decal. This addition makes it significantly more difficult for criminals to replicate or alter plates illegally.

Moreover, each plate will display the South African national flag and the country’s name, adding a layer of national identity while making it easier to distinguish vehicles across regions.

Beyond Crime Prevention: Economic and Administrative Impact

The provincial government designed the new system to deliver benefits beyond public safety. By streamlining vehicle identification, the system will enable better enforcement of roadworthiness and insurance compliance.

Officials also expect improved data collection for city planning and transport policymaking. The upgrade will aid in:

• Revenue collection from vehicle registration
• Regulating and tracking the number plate supply chain
• Holding manufacturers accountable for compliance and quality
• Empowering small, micro, and medium enterprises (SMMEs) involved in production

By tapping into local SMMEs for manufacturing and distribution, the government hopes to stimulate economic activity and create jobs within the province.

Pilot Phase Begins with State-Owned Vehicles

The rollout began with state-owned vehicles under the “G-fleet” program receiving the new plates. This six-month pilot phase will serve as a testing period before expanding the program to all Gauteng motorists.

Existing number plates will remain valid until their sequence combinations are entirely used up—expected by around 2038—allowing for a smooth and phased transition.

A Smart and Secure Future for Gauteng Roads

The launch event featured key provincial leaders, including Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela and City of Johannesburg Transport MMC Kenny Kunene. Together with Premier Lesufi, they outlined how the initiative will help make Gauteng safer and more economically resilient.

With advanced digital tracking, anti-counterfeit measures, and a modern look that reflects national pride, the new number plates aren’t just about fixing an administrative challenge. They represent a smart, strategic response to crime and a leap forward in how Gauteng manages its road network and vehicle ecosystem.