Foreign Drivers' Licences in South Africa.

First Car Rental, who offers cheap car rentals, recommends that for International Travellers to ensure that their holiday driving experience in South Africa is as legal and trouble free as possible, probably the best and most recommended way would be to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). Indeed, there are certain Foreign Driver’s Licences that may not be covered by South African car insurers without the presentation of an IDP.

The IDP is not a licence in itself and cannot be used independently or instead of your Foreign Driver’s Licence. It serves to authenticate your Driver’s Licence, because, if you do have an accident, some insurance companies will insist that you must produce one. 

Unfortunately, there are licences that do not display a photograph of the holder. Many car insurers and car hirers such as First Car Rental insist on proof of identity. An International Driving Permit will instantly solve all these situations, and, is often used as validation of identity.

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document which is slightly larger than a normal passport and bears multiple language translations (including English) of your own current driver's license. In addition, it displays your photograph and some vital statistics.

International Travellers should bear the following guidelines in mind when apply for an International Dirving Permit. (IDP)

Validity The IDP is only valid for driving a vehicle within the categories that are covered by their Foreign Driver's Licence;

Expiry The IDP is no longer valid once the actual corresponding Foreign Driver's Licence has expired;

Application The IDP must be obtained in the International Traveller’s own country prior to their departure for South Africa;

Only abroad The IDP is not valid for driving in the country where it was issued.