Getting a car insurance quote in South Africa is faster than most drivers expect. The information you need depends on whether you are getting an indicative comparison quote or a firm, bindable quote from an insurer directly.
To start a comparison (name and phone number)
With Compare Car Insurance, you only need your name and phone number to start. We forward your details to licensed SA insurers on our panel, who call you back to collect the additional information they need and give you a live, personalised quote. There is no obligation.
To get a firm quote from an insurer directly
When speaking to an insurer directly or completing a detailed online quote form, you will typically need:
Your personal details
- Full name and ID number
- Date of birth
- Contact number and email address
- Residential address (including suburb — affects theft and accident loading)
- Employment status
Your driver's licence details
- Licence code (Code 10, Code 14, etc.)
- Date first licenced
- Licence issue date
Your vehicle details
- Make and model
- Year of manufacture
- VIN number (for binding cover — usually from the registration document)
- Engine size
- Colour
- Whether the vehicle is financed — and by whom
- Estimated annual mileage
- Use: private, commuting, or business use
- Where the vehicle is kept overnight (garage, carport, open driveway)
- Security devices fitted: immobiliser, tracker, gear lock, alarm
Your claims history
- Number of claims in the past three to five years
- Nature of claims (accident, theft, hail)
- Whether any previous insurance has been cancelled or declined
What you do not need upfront
You do not need your current policy documents, banking details, or payment information to get a quote. These are only required once you decide to accept a quote and activate cover.
Tips for a faster quoting process
- Have your vehicle registration document handy — it contains the VIN, engine number, and registration details an insurer will need
- Know your suburb — insurers quote on suburb, not just city
- Be accurate about use type — declaring private use when the vehicle is used commercially can result in a rejected claim
- Check your tracker subscription is active before quoting — some insurers require proof of a valid tracker contract for high-risk vehicles