Where to Get an Affidavit Commissioned in South Africa (Free Options)

You've created your affidavit, but it's not legally valid until it's commissioned. A Commissioner of Oaths must witness your signature and stamp the document. Here's a complete guide to where you can get this done in South Africa, including free options.

Free Commissioning at Police Stations

The most accessible and completely free option is your local South African Police Service (SAPS) station. Every police station has designated Commissioners of Oaths who can commission your affidavit at no charge.

What to bring:

• Your unsigned affidavit (do not sign before arriving)
• Your South African ID book, Smart ID card, or valid passport
• Any supporting documents if relevant

What to expect:

• The officer will verify your identity
• You'll be asked to confirm you understand the content
• You'll sign in the commissioner's presence
• They'll sign, stamp, and date the document

Other Free Options

Besides police stations, these officials can also commission affidavits for free:

• Magistrate's Courts: Court officials during business hours
• Department of Justice: Certain officials at justice centres
• Some government offices: Certain designated employees

Paid Commissioning Services

If you prefer faster service or the police station is inconvenient, these options charge a fee:

Post Office:

• Available at most Post Office branches
• Typical cost: R20-R50 per document
• Usually quick with minimal queuing

Banks:

• Some banks offer commissioning for account holders
• Fees vary by bank
• May require an appointment

Attorneys:

• All practicing attorneys can commission documents
• Fees typically R50-R200
• Useful if you need legal advice too

Notaries Public:

• Required for documents going overseas (apostille)
• Higher fees but additional authentication

What to Bring

Regardless of where you go, always bring:

• Valid ID: SA ID book, Smart ID card, or passport (original, not a copy)
• Unsigned document: Never sign beforehand
• Extra copies: Some commissioners prefer to commission multiple copies at once

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Go early: Police stations and courts are less busy in the morning
• Avoid month-end: Government offices are busier around salary dates
• Be patient: The service is free, so expect some waiting
• Check hours: Call ahead to confirm commissioning services are available
• Don't sign: Wait until you're with the commissioner

What Makes an Affidavit Valid?

A properly commissioned affidavit should have:

• Your signature (signed in the commissioner's presence)
• The commissioner's signature
• The commissioner's stamp or seal
• The date of commissioning
• The place of commissioning
• The commissioner's designation and full name

Documents for International Use

If your affidavit needs to be used outside South Africa:

• You may need a notary public instead of a commissioner
• An apostille from DIRCO may be required
• Some countries require authentication at their embassy
• Check with the destination country's requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I commission my own affidavit?
No. Even if you're a commissioner yourself, you cannot commission your own documents.

Does it matter which police station I use?
No. Any SAPS station in South Africa can commission your document.

How long does it take?
The actual commissioning takes minutes. Waiting time varies - budget 30 minutes to an hour at busy stations.