Destinations / South Africa
Driving in South Africa as a visitor
Usually yes. South Africa expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
Standard delivery included. Need it sooner? Express lands by for $25 more.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What South Africa expects
| Permit needed | Expected |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1968 Vienna |
| Valid for | Up to 3 years |
| Drives on the | Left |
| Emergency number | 10111 (police), 10177 (ambulance), 112 from mobiles |
| Top speed limit | 120 km/h national highways |
What the rental desk will ask you for
| Your own licence | The original card. A photo of it, or a photocopy, gets turned away. |
|---|---|
| Licence translation | Expected. Hand it over with the licence, never instead of it. |
| Booklet format they know | 1968 Vienna |
| Minimum age | 18. Under 25 usually pays a young-driver surcharge. |
| Deposit | A credit card in the driver's name. The hold is taken in ZAR. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Tolls | Toll roads (e-tolls) on major routes. |
|---|---|
| Local practice | Four-way stops are common. |
| Alcohol | 0.05% alcohol limit, strictly enforced. |
On the road in South Africa
At the pump
All stations are attended - an attendant pumps petrol (93/95 unleaded) or diesel, checks tyres and cleans the windscreen for a small tip; many older pumps are cash-only, so carry rand as Gauteng prices run 60-75c/litre above the coast.
After a crash
Phone 10111 (police) or 112 from a mobile for injuries; you must stop, exchange details and, even with no injuries, report the crash in person at the nearest SAPS police station within 24 hours to get a case number.
Sources: expatica.com · aa.co.za · topauto.co.za · globalpetrolprices.com
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in South Africa?
Usually yes. South Africa expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
Which IDP format does South Africa accept?
South Africa recognises the 1968 Vienna format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in South Africa ask for one?
Requested for non-English licences at Hertz, Europcar and local chains.
How fast can you get one?
Express orders are emailed within 5 minutes. The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay and the order is refundable for 30 days.