SABC Dismisses Fake Car Radio Licence Fee Rumours

Posted on May 8, 2025
by Yashmika Dukaran


The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) has strongly denied a false media statement circulating online, claiming the broadcaster is set to implement a car radio licence fee.

In an official response, the SABC clarified that it has not released any such media statement or made public announcements concerning car radio licence fees. The broadcaster labelled the claims as "fabricated and misleading," stating that no such directive or policy exists within the organisation.

“The current TV licence system remains unchanged and applies exclusively to television sets, in line with the Broadcasting Act 4 of 1999 and TV Licence Regulations of 2004,” the SABC stated. “Any proposed amendments to this framework would require legislative processes and extensive public consultation.”

The broadcaster believes the spread of the disinformation is a deliberate attempt to incite panic and disrupt operations—particularly as the SABC celebrates a milestone of one million subscribers on its Over-The-Top (OTT) platform, SABC Plus.

The SABC is urging the public to verify any information through its official platforms. Accurate details are available at www.tvlic.co.za or by contacting the TV Licences office at 011 330 9555 or via email at tvlic.info@sabc.co.za.