Car rental in South Africa
Choose a city to see cars from local rental companies with prices and terms. Book online in minutes.
Cities with car rental in South Africa
Each city lists cars from local rental companies with prices and terms.
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Cars in South Africa
Choose a city and dates — the form shows available cars from local companies, total price, deposit and insurance.
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Driving in South Africa: licence and road rules
What you need to rent a car and drive here as a visitor. Rules change — check with your rental company before the trip.
An EU/EEA licence is legally valid, but rental desks or police may ask for an International Driving Permit — get one before you go.
A UK licence is valid on its own in South Africa — no IDP needed.
A US licence is valid on its own in South Africa — no IDP needed.
A foreign licence is valid only if it is in English and carries a photo and signature; otherwise an IDP is required. Rental companies insist on this.
Toll plazas on main national routes (N1, N3, N4 etc.) take cash or cards; rental cars may carry an e-tag and toll charges are billed later.
Tip: Avoid driving after dark in remote areas: there are stray animals, unlit roads and safety risks. Keep doors locked and valuables out of sight in cities.
How to rent a car
Four steps from choosing a city to getting the keys in South Africa.
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Choose a city and dates
Pick where and when to collect the car. You can return it to the same place or, with many companies, in another city.
Pick-up and drop-off in the form -
Compare the cars
Each car shows the total price for your dates, the deposit, insurance, mileage limit and driver requirements.
All terms before you book -
Book online
The rental company confirms the booking. Usually a small prepayment online and the rest on pick-up.
Confirmed by the company -
Get the keys
Bring your passport and driving licence. The car is handed over at the office, the airport or, often, at your hotel.
Passport + licence
Car rental FAQ
The essentials, so you can plan your trip with confidence.
Do I need an International Driving Permit to rent a car in South Africa?
EU/EEA licence: An EU/EEA licence is legally valid, but rental desks or police may ask for an International Driving Permit — get one before you go. UK licence: A UK licence is valid on its own in South Africa — no IDP needed. US licence: A US licence is valid on its own in South Africa — no IDP needed. A foreign licence is valid only if it is in English and carries a photo and signature; otherwise an IDP is required. Rental companies insist on this.
Where do I get an International Driving Permit?
Get it at home before the trip: in the UK at PayPoint shops, in the US through AAA, in EU countries from the licensing authority or national automobile club. It is a translation of your licence and is valid only together with it.
What are the speed limits in South Africa?
Typically 60 km/h in towns, 100 km/h outside towns and 120 km/h on motorways. Always follow the signs — cameras are common and fines reach you via the rental company.
Are there toll roads or vignettes in South Africa?
Toll plazas on main national routes (N1, N3, N4 etc.) take cash or cards; rental cars may carry an e-tag and toll charges are billed later.
What is the drink-driving limit?
The limit is 0.5 ‰ blood alcohol (0.2 for professional drivers). The safest rule is not to drink at all before driving.
Where can I pick up a car?
Cape Town & Johannesburg.
Can I return the car in another city?
Many companies allow it, sometimes for a fee. You can choose the drop-off location in the booking form.