Initially aimed to be completed by the 2010 Soccer World Cup that was hosted in South Africa, the development of e-Tolls in the Gauteng province was only largely completed by April 2011. The e-Tolls serve as electronic tolling gantries, which scan car license plates or a registered e-Tag disc each time a driver passes through the gantry on one of Gauteng’s highways. There are set costs associated with each scan, with a cap limit that is set for each type of motor vehicle on a monthly basis. ¹
Although road users can be scanned and recognised for their e-Toll account via their Vehicle License Plate disc, there are discounts available for those who have an e-Tag fitted into their vehicle. Huge discounts in fact – if you are a registered e-Tag user, you are eligible to pay 48% less on e-Toll fees. When using an e-Tag, you are also afforded more payment options such as loading your e-Tag up with credit, paying at a SANRAL outlet, at selected retailers and online.
Here’s how to purchase and install an e-Tag:
Purchasing:
- Visit your nearest SANRAL outlet (found in many shopping malls throughout Gauteng and at selected highway off-ramps) or visit any Pick n Pay (virtually all of them are certified e-Tag distributors).
- Pay an amount of R49.95 for your e-Tag package.
- Ensure that your e-Tag comes fitted with the obligatory ‘drive-time’ credit that is activated upon registration.
- Your tag package should also come with an installation package that fits most vehicles.
Registration:
- Visit sanral.co.za or call a SANRAL office on 0800 SANRAL (726-725) or at an e-Toll customer service outlet (found in selected shopping malls throughout Gauteng or at selected highway off-ramps).
- Follow the prompts to register your e-Tag, and choose your method of payment.
Installation:
- Using the provided bracket, attach your e-Tag to the inside of your windscreen.
- Each time you go under a gantry, your e-Tag will beep. Once your pre-paid funds are depleted, you will have to load up with more credit (if you have chosen the pre-paid method of payment).
Bear in mind that e-Tag batteries should last up to five years. If your e-Tag starts to beep four times in a row repeatedly, or stops beeping when you pass under a gantry, it may be time to replace your battery. In this instance, contact SANRAL using the details above to find out about replacing your e-Tag battery.
Ensure that you have a good car insurance policy in place and follow the rules of the road in order to continue being the safest and most responsible driver you can be.
Summary
Most of Gauteng’s highways have been fitted with e-Toll gantries, and in order to receive a discount on your e-Toll fees while being able to pay them hassle-free, you need to purchase an e-Tag. Find out everything you need to know about the purchase and installation of e-Tags.
Bio
MiWay is a direct, short-term insurance provider offering a range of value-for-money insurance products. As well as motor, household and homeowners insurance, there are also add-on products such as liability cover. Want to know how to register for an eTag? Click here.