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All prices and fees quoted on this site are correct. However, our prices are regularly reviewed and are subject to change without notice.
Conditions for renting a vehicle are often bewildering and can lead to resentment when the invoice amount is reflected on the credit card. First Car Rental explains some of the most common areas of confusion from credit card deposits to car rental breakdown services.
Q: What methods of payment does First Car Rental accept?
A: All vehicle renters are required to pay for their rental using a credit card or a cheque card if they are not travelling on a company account. First Car Rental accepts all major credit cards including American Express, Diners Card, MasterCard and Visa. We can either charge your credit card when you arrive at the rental kiosk for collection, or at the time of making your reservation online
Please make a note that the credit card holder has to be the renter of the vehicle, and, if reserving online, the same credit card used when making the reservation must be presented at the rental kiosk when collecting your vehicle.
First Car Rental unfortunately do not accept Debit cards, Virtual or Digital cards.
As an added security feature introduced by various international banking institutions, transactions on credit cards issued outside South Africa will not be authorised by the issuing bank if the cardholder fails to inform them of their intention to travel to South Africa and the period concerned.
Q: Am I required to pay a deposit?
A: When hiring a car from First Car Rental a 'Renter's Responsibility' deposit is required in the event of any loss or damage to the vehicle during the hire period. First Car Rental also requires renters to pay a fuel deposit, as well as the full rental amount at the start of the rental.
First Car Rental operates a payment and authorisation system. This means that instead of one full amount being taken off the renter's credit card at the start of a rental, the amount is split into Payment & Authorisation amounts.
The Payment Amount is the amount that is physically taken from the renter's credit card. It is calculated as follows: Fuel Deposit plus Full Rental (if not pre-paid) plus additional items, if applicable (e.g. toll fees, additional kilometres, baby seats, one way fees, cross border fees, etc.).
The Authorisation Amount is the amount that is 'held' by the credit card issuer, not physically taken off the credit card. It is the Renter's Responsibility amount (the maximum amount the customer will be liable for in the event of damage to, or theft of, the rental vehicle, unless one of the waivers set out in clause 5.3 of the terms of conditions of rental apply, in which event you may be held liable for the full extent of the damage to the vehicle)
Q: When will I get my deposit back?
A: The Payment Amount - Once you return the rental vehicle, the difference between the balance owing (fuel and rental costs) and the payment amount taken will be refunded to your credit card within 48 hours after the contract termination date, provided there is no damage to the vehicle or toll transactions awaiting processing from SANRAL.
Should the contract have attracted toll fees from SANRAL, then the payment amount will be refunded to you within 5 working days of the contract termination date. This is because SANRAL often delay electronic file sending.
The Authorisation Amount ('Renter's Responsibility') is 'held' by the card-issuing bank as an Authorisation on the credit card upon vehicle collection. This means that the Authorisation Amount is not removed from the credit card, it is just blocked. This Authorisation Amount is then automatically cancelled by First Car Rental when the rental contract is terminated, provided there is no damage to the vehicle.
Please note that even though the instruction to release the credit card block is sent automatically and immediately, South African credit card issuing banks release the Authorisation Amount block, and this can take from 24 hours up to 7 working days.
Q: What is the minimum age to rent a car from First Car Rental?
A: You should be 23 or older with a valid driver's licence card that you have held for 2 or more years. A Young Driver may be authorised if the driver's age is less than 23 years; this driver must have held a valid driver's license for a minimum of 3 years. A Young Driver will only be authorised to rent on prior agreed debtors accounts to which a per day Young Driver Fee will be applied.
Q: What type of driver's licence is accepted at First Car Rental?
A: A valid South African driver's licence card or a valid international driver's licence with your passport will be accepted. An English translation is required for licenses recorded in a foreign language.
Q: What do you need to bring when you hire a car from First Car Rental?
A: Please bring your Loyalty Card (if applicable), online booking voucher, your driver's licence card and your credit card. Please note that we may require additional methods of identification or conduct a security check to the Branch Manager's satisfaction for the following vehicle groups: D, E, K, L, U, V, I, QA and YE.
Q: What is First Car Rental's Late Cancellation and No Show policy?
A: Generally, First Car Rental charges a Cancellation & No Show Penalty fee if renters do not show up to collect their rental vehicle on the date and time specified when booking the vehicle. This fee is levied due to the fact that First Car Rental would have washed and prepared that vehicle and moved it from our depot to the pick-up location and there is no guarantee that they would find a replacement reservation to recover the loss of revenue. Therefore, we have introduced a fair and transparent guide that our staff use in the event our customers request a refund or when applying a penalty fee to the debtors account, which is directly related to the timeframe of notification of a cancellation and or no show.
Please see below for a guide related to penalty fee’s that may be applied relevant to your booking Method of Payment.
Reservations prepaid directly to First Car Rental via Credit Card:
Our booking system states that all prepaid reservations are non-refundable, but we will always consider the circumstances around the reservation and the cancellation timeframe thereof.
The following is the guide we work on to determine the penalty fee before refunds are processed:
Reservations booked on a Debtors Account with First Car Rental:
First Car Rental charges a No Show penalty fee of R500 if renters do not show up to collect their rental vehicle on the date and time specified when booking the vehicle.
Reservations in the Cape region between the peak rental period of 13 December - 3 January are subject to stricter Cancellation and No Show fees. In this instance, the cancellation fee is 50% of the value of the rental where the reservation is cancelled in 7 days of less before the reserved collection date. Reconfirmation practices are in place well in advance though, which gives customers ample warning to cancel should they no longer wish to travel on the reserved dates and times. The No Show fee is 100% of the value of the rental.
Q: What is the cost for an additional driver and what is it for?
A: A fee of R525 applies per additional driver per rental period. This is for risk and administration related costs for multiple drivers. Prices are subject to change without prior notification. Additional drivers must meet First Car Rental's age, experience and licence requirements, and must also be present at time of collection to sign the contract.
Q: What happens if you get traffic fines?
A: The renter is liable for payment of all traffic fines. We charge a handling fee of R400 per traffic fine. This is charged to your credit card.
We are the first car rental company in South Africa to be AARTO (Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences) compliant and are able to seamlessly relay renter and vehicle movement information to the authorities, allowing us daily updates of fines issued to renter vehicles across the country.
Q: Are there any hidden costs?
A: No, none at all.
Q: When will my final invoice be ready?
A: First Car Rental issues rental invoices immediately after the rental termination, provided there are no possible toll transactions awaiting processing from SANRAL. If contracts have accrued toll fees during their rental, they will be issued with an invoice 2 days after the rental termination.
We will have all your previous rental activity available to you online at all times. Click here to access your rental information.
Q: What do you do in the event of an accident or breakdown?
A: Once you have received medical attention, please contact First Car Rental immediately on our Emergency Roadside Assistance toll-free number 0860 888 911 (SA only). If outside of SA borders with a roaming cellphone, please dial +27 11 230 9920.
The renter will be assisted in the following way:
Message Relay Service
First Car Rental will relay a message to a family member, friend or colleague anywhere in South Africa in the event of a breakdown or accident.
Flat Tyre Assistance
If the vehicle's spare tyre is inflated and serviceable, it will be installed to replace the flat tyre at the renter's expense. When a serviceable spare tyre is unavailable, towing will be provided, at the renter's expense.
Battery Jump Start
If the vehicle's battery is dead, the service provider will jump-start the vehicle at the renter's expense, unless the battery jump start was required due to mechanical failure.
Vehicle Lockout Service
In the event of keys being locked in the vehicle, a locksmith will be appointed to unlock the vehicle, at the renter's expense.
Emergency Fuel Delivery
If the vehicle runs out of fuel, a limited supply of fuel will be delivered to the renter to enable you to reach the nearest petrol station. (Cost of the fuel and delivery fee for the renter's account).
Extrication/Winching Service
If a vehicle becomes stuck, it will be extricated or winched as long as it is adjacent to a passable, established road or thoroughfare and can be safely reached from the hard road surface, at the renter's expense.
Towing Service
Sometimes a breakdown will occur at inconvenient locations. If the vehicle breaks down and requires towing, contact First Car Rental and we will appoint a towing operator to tow the vehicle to the nearest repairer, at the renter's expense. Towing may never be authorised by the renter.
To find out more about Accident Procedures and Information, click here.
Q: Should I fill my car up with fuel before I return it?
A: Optional. When a vehicle is returned to us at any one of our locations, we automatically top up the tank, irrespective of what the fuel gauge reflects. Your invoice will reflect the actual fuel amount. Should refuelling be required and exceeds the amount of R70, a Fuel Admin fee of R45 will be levied.
Q: What is First Car Rental's typical rental cycle?
A: Our car rentals are charged in 24-hour cycles. Late return of vehicles will result in renters being charged for an additional day; for example, if a rental vehicle is collected at 9am on Monday and dropped back at 10am on Tuesday, the rental period is two days.
Q: How are kilometres driven charged?
A: The rental rate you have chosen may include a specified amount of free kilometres a day. For example; if you get a rate with 100km free a day and you drive 150 km, you will be charged the 'per km rate' for the extra 50km only. The 'per kilometre' rate varies depending on the vehicle type.
Q: What if I want to extend my rental period?
A: If you wish to extend the rental beyond the original return date, authorisation must be obtained from First Car Rental prior to the expiry of your rental agreement. Contact your branch directly. Failure to do so will result in First Car Rental reporting the car stolen and it immediately negates all waivers. Additional days will be charged directly to your credit card, at the extension rates.
Q: What is an airport surcharge and is this included in the rates?
A: An 13% airport surcharge is applicable for all rentals from airports. This surcharge is included on final invoice for all rate structures and imposed on all rental companies by the Airports Company South Africa (Ltd) (ACSA).
Q: How much is the contract fee?
A: Our contract fee is R120. This is an administration fee.
Q: What is a one-way fee?
A: A one-way fee is charged when dropping off your hire car at a different branch to the one you first collected it from. One-way fees vary between R400 - R2000 depending on the pickup and return location combination. Please refer to the relevant price on step 2 of the quoting/booking process for your pick-up and drop-off branch combination.
Q: What are e-toll fees?
A: E-Toll is the Electronic Toll Collection system in South Africa and was run by SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited), which is no longer in operational effective 11 April 2024 - all monies owing to SANRAL is however payable for all activity until this date.
Q: Are First Car Rental vehicles e-tagged?
A: Yes, First Car Rental's entire fleet has been fitted with e-tags. This is to ensure that customers can easily pass through any Toll Gate without having to stop and make payment. We are the only major car rental company that chose to keep the e-tags to ensure convenience for our customers that wish to utilise the e-tag dedicated lane. It is imperative that renters do not use the E-Tag lane if they do not wish to be charged an administration fee. Renters can still utilise the normal non e-tag toll queue and pay by means of cash or card, but if they use the E-Tag gate they will be charged the toll fee and the admin fee.
* We are running a 3 month trial given the risk that this initiative poses in recuperating funds from renters.
Find out more about Tolls and E-tags, click here.
Q: What Optional Extras can I add to my rental?
A: Below is a list of the optional extras offered by First Car Rental. Please note: Prices are subject to change without prior notification.
Tyre Damage Waiver: R30 per day. Waiver excludes theft of tyres
Windscreen Damage Waiver: R30 per day
Hail Cover: R65 per day
Baby or Child Seat: R550 per rental
GPS: R140 per day (Excess - R2850)
Fire Extinguisher: R450 per item
Q: What are the rules for crossing borders into other countries?
A: First Car Rental permits some vehicle groups to cross the South African border into these countries: Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland and Namibia. Vehicles are NOT permitted into Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe or Zambia.
The following vehicle groups are not permitted to cross any of the following borders: Botswana and Namibia : E (SDAR), G (PDAR), L (LFAR). One-way car rentals to Botswana, Lesotho, Swaziland or Namibia are not permitted.
A letter of authorisation must be requested at the time of reservation for all cross-border travelling. On average, 4 days advance notification is needed as authorities require the original registration documents for all vehicles crossing this border.
Unfortunately no cross-borders will be allowed (regardless of vehicle booked), for any renters holding a Passport and/or Driver's License from any of the countries listed below:
There are other cross-border rules as per individual country (see below), which are subject to change without notice at any time. Please contact the relevant authorities before driving abroad to find out what is required, or visit the AA's website here for a list of requirements.
A penalty fee of up to R5000 may be levied by local authorities if the required documentation is not produced. First Car Rental will not be held responsible if a renter is refused entry into another country or for any penalties incurred if drivers fail to carry the required documents and items, as per individual country laws.
As of March 2015, the following requirements must be met when travelling in the following countries:
Botswana
Lesotho
Namibia
Swaziland
First Car Rental gives drivers the option of purchasing a cross-border pack at a cost of R800, containing all the required items, or sourcing the required items themselves.
PLEASE NOTE: First Car Rental will not be held accountable for the lack of fuel availability in any country the driver of the vehicle enters. Should a vehicle need replacing, the renter may have to move the vehicle to the nearest SA border post. This cost is for the renter’s own account. Delivery of a replacement vehicle is subject to time and distance constraints and an extra fee. First Car Rental is not responsible for any costs that may be incurred at the South African border posts or by local governments. These include Commercial Vehicle Guarantee, permits, visas, import permits and toll fees.
Please note: A non-refundable fee will be levied for vehicles crossing any of the below-mentioned permitted borders and is payable directly by the renter:
CROSS BORDER FEE (Non-refundable)
Q: Why does First Car Rental charge cross border fees?
A: The cost relates to the additional risk carried by First Car Rental having our vehicles cross the South African borders as well as the potential financial risk we carry in the event that a mechanical breakdown occurs outside the South African borders.
Q: What are waivers?
A: Car hire companies do not offer insurance, they offer waivers. This is an important difference because many renters are under the illusion that they are purchasing insurance that will cover them for anything and everything including all wrong-doings.
The main difference is that an insurance company will offer you full for cover in the event of an accident whether you are at fault or not and pay for your car damage and that of third party vehicles.
Waivers are legal, compulsory agreements between the Rental Company and renters, and generally limit the claim against a renter in the event of loss of or damage to the vehicle.
Most rental daily rates include all the waivers such as theft protection and collision damage waivers or similar. Many corporate companies have their own insurance and would then opt for an own cover rate option with a sales representative within a car rental company.
Waivers are not honoured by car rental companies in the case of negligence such as driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances or not adhering to traffic, road and driving regulations, etc. This means that the customer will be held liable for the full amount of damage.
When renting a car, ensure that your rental agreement includes a basic level of waivers so you are sufficiently covered in the event of an accident or theft. Always read the fine print on the car hire rental agreement terms and conditions to fully understand liability - most of these are available online prior to renting a vehicle from a reputable car rental company.
Waivers explained
Please note that waivers differ between car hire companies so please ask the rental agent to explain in detail what you are covered for and always read the Rental Agreement terms and conditions.
Should any of the waivers set out in clause 5.3 of the terms of conditions of rental apply, you may be held liable for the full extent of the damage to the vehicle.
Collision Damage Waiver
Should you be involved in an accident, you would be responsible for a specific amount as indicated on the rental agreement (called drivers responsibility or excess). This would include damage to the vehicle or part thereof, or cost of the damage repair, whichever is lower.
If you decline this option when renting a car, this means you are liable for the full amount of damages incurred or the specified liability.
Damage and Theft Waiver
This is limited coverage for passenger liability and third party motor liability subject to terms and conditions. Cover for loss by fire is normally included as well as damages to the rental car but this may not include loss or damage through civil unrest.
Super Collision Damage Waiver
This means that you are liable for a minimal excess payment as a result of collision damage and alleviates you as the renter of the liability of the full cost of the repair or part thereof. Important to note is that if your rented vehicle is driven by someone other than yourself and that person is involved in an accident, you are fully responsible for damages incurred, so don't opt for this situation.
Theft Loss Waiver
In the event that your rented vehicle is stolen, you will be responsible for a certain amount as indicated on the rental agreement for the replacement of the vehicle.
Super Theft Loss Waiver
This is always a good option as it relieves you as the renter of any liability besides any excess payment arising out of the theft or part thereof.
Please note Country Specific Rental Agreement Terms and Conditions:
All prices and fees quoted on this site are correct. However, our prices are regularly reviewed and are subject to change without notice.
Q: What do you do in the event of an accident or theft of your rental vehicle?
A: Once you have received medical attention, please contact First Car Rental immediately on our Emergency Roadside Assistance toll-free number 0860 888 911 (SA only). If outside of SA borders with a roaming cellphone, please dial +27 11 230 9920.
Q: What is collision damage/theft waivers and how do they apply to you?
A: South African car hire companies do not offer insurance, they offer Waivers. They are not allowed to offer insurance (as in the word 'insurance') because they are not authorised financial service providers. This is an important difference because many renters are under the illusion that they are purchasing insurance that will cover them for anything and everything, including all wrong-doings.
Responsibility Waivers are legal, compulsory agreements between the car hire firm and renters, and generally limit the claim against a renter in the event of loss of or damage to the vehicle.
Many of First Car Rental's daily rental packages include all the waivers such as theft protection and collision damage waivers or similar. In the case of corporate clients, many have their own insurance in place that covers them for driving in a rental vehicle. First Car Rental offers these customers an own-cover rate option.
Please note that waivers differ between car hire companies so please ask the rental agent to explain in detail what you are covered for and always read the Rental Agreement terms and conditions. It is good to know that the top 5 car hire companies (Avis, Europcar, Bidvest, First Car Rental and Hertz) all have very similar responsibility waivers and that they all prescribe to SAVRALA's (South African Vehicle Renting and Leasing Association) general recommended car rental terms.
In the event of an accident or theft, the renter is liable for the non-waiverable Renter's Responsibility amount (previously referred to as 'excess') applicable to your rental package selected.
Waivers are not honoured by car rental companies in the case of negligence, meaning the customer would be held liable for the full amount of damage (and not just the renter's responsibility amount).
Q: What are the factors that cancel out waivers?
The LIABILITY WAIVERS do not cover loss of, or damage to the VEHICLE in the following circumstances, and the renter will be liable for all such loss or damage:
Q: Does the renter's responsibility amount cover damage to tyres, glass and undercarriage?
A: No, the renter's responsibility amount does not cover repairs to tyres, any glass and undercarriage, and the costs for these repairs will be for the renter, unless additional waiver against tyres or windscreen has been taken. Should these components be damaged as a result of an accident, they are covered by the renter's responsibility amount. Negligence negates all cover.
Q: What about Third-Party claims?
A: If the renter is involved in an accident where the cause was not that of the renter, the renter is still responsible for the non-waiverable renter's responsibility amount until such time as Third-Party Recovery has been paid to First Car Rental. First Car Rental will then reimburse the renter. The amount reimbursed will be subject to the Third-Party Recovery amount.
iPhone & iPad App FAQs
We have just launched our new App, and this page will provide up-to-date answers to any questions we receive
Feel free to send us any questions and or screenshots should you experience any difficulty with our new app.
Q: Where can I send questions to?
A: You can email us at weblinkdoc@cmh.co.za
Q: How do I download the First Car Rental Booking App?
A: First Car Rental's booking app is available to download directly from Apple's iStore -simply click on this link from your iPhone or iPad device to be taken to the download page now.
Alternatively, tap the App Store icon on your iPhone or iPad, search for the First Car Rental booking app, and click on 'download'.
The app will be then be installed on your iPhone or iPad and ready to use once you see the First Car Rental app icon on your device.
Q: Will I be charged for downloading the First Car Rental Apple booking app?
A: The app is free to download so you won't be charged anything.
Q: What is an Apple ID?
A: To download apps from the app store you need an Apple ID.
An Apple ID is your username for everything you do with Apple: Shop the iTunes Store, enable iCloud on all your devices, download from the App Store, make a reservation at an Apple Retail Store, access the Apple Support website, and more.
Click here to set up your Apple ID now.
Click here to read the Apple ID privacy policy.
Q: What Apple devices is the First Car Rental booking app compatible with?
A: First Car Rental's Apple booking app requires iOS 7.0 or later. The app is compatible with the iPhone and iPad, and has been optimised for iPhone 5, iPhone 6, and iPhone 6 Plus.
Q: What can I use the First Car Rental Apple booking app for?
A: Use the First Car Rental iPhone and iPad App to book and manage car rental directly from your mobile device.
From the app, search dates, pick-up and drop-off locations and seamlessly browse through the cars available at your chosen location.
The app does not replace First Car Rental's online booking system, but rather offers a convenient solution for people who use their iPhones and iPads on the move.
Android Booking App FAQs
We have just launched our car rental booking app for Android devices, and this page will provide up-to-date answers to any questions we receive.
Feel free to send us any questions and or screenshots should you experience any difficulty with our new app.
Q: Where can I send questions to?
A: You can email us at weblinkdoc@cmh.co.za
Q: How do I download the First Car Rental Booking App?
A: First Car Rental's booking app is available to download directly from the Google Play Store - simply click on this link from your Android device to be taken to the download page now.
Alternatively, tap the Play Store icon on your device, search for the First Car Rental booking app, and click on 'download'.
Q: Will I be charged for downloading the app?
A: The app is free to download so you won't be charged anything.
Q: What is a Google account?
A: To download apps from the Play Store you need a Google Account. It's quick and easy to set up a Google account, which you can then use to access Gmail, YouTube, Google+, and many other Google services with a single username and password.
Q: What can I use the First Car Rental Android booking app for?
A: Use the app to book and manage car rental directly from your mobile device.
From the app, search dates, pick-up and drop-off locations and seamlessly browse through the cars available at your chosen location.
The app does not replace First Car Rental's online booking system, but rather offers a convenient solution for people who use their Android devices while on the move.
Q: What are E-Tolls?
A: E-Toll is the Electronic Toll Collection system in South Africa and was run by SANRAL (South African National Roads Agency SOC Limited), which is no longer in operational effective 11 April 2024 - all monies owing to SANRAL is however payable for all activity until this date.
Q: Are First Car Rental vehicles e-tagged?
A: Yes, First Car Rental's entire fleet has been fitted with e-tags. This is to ensure that customers can easily pass through any Toll Gate without having to stop and make payment.
Q: When will I receive my invoice?
A: If renters have accrued toll fees during their rental, they will be issued with an invoice 2 days after the rental termination. This is because it takes approximately 2 days for SANRAL to process toll transactions.
Q: Will renters who use the delivery & collection service be billed for toll fees?
A: Please remember that it will be cheaper to collect from and return a car to a branch rather than opting for a delivery or collection service, which could have toll fees levied against the customer. The customer will be responsible for the tolls incurred between the closest branch and the delivery or collection point. We will take responsibility for the 2nd vehicle, which is utilized to collect the driver of the customer vehicle.
Q: How does the cost of tolls work for individual and corporate travellers?
We will receive an electronic transaction file per toll transaction from SANRAL.
As we receive it, we automatically verify that it is our vehicle.
We then do checks on the actual tag plus registration combination and match a movement to the toll date and time stamp.
This enables us to determine whether it is an internal movement or a rental or if indeed a rental movement.
We then charge the relevant renter or debtor on the main invoice.
Q: Are renters able to receive toll reports?
A: Yes, all your detailed toll transactions can be emailed to you. First Car Rental will only show the total e-toll amount incurred on invoices, but we log all SANRAL information received so you are able to request detailed reports at any time or download them from our websitehere.
Q: Is there a toll administration fee?
A: Yes, First Car Rental charges a toll administration fee per rental contract, please view your exclusion details upon reservation for the exact amount.
Q: Will the administration fee only be levied to customers that utilized the toll system or for every rental contract?
A: Yes, the administration fee will only apply to customers that have used a toll gate.
Q: If a customer is on a monthly contract, will they only pay one admin fee?
A: The admin fee is levied the moment the first toll transaction is logged and is charged per rental contract. Toll fees and the admin fee will always be present on the same invoice.
Q: Is the renter or the owner of the hire car responsible for the toll fee?
A: The renter is responsible.
Q: How do you compare to your car hire competitors?
A: We are the only major car rental company that chose to keep the e-tags to ensure convenience for our customers that wish to utilize the e-tag dedicated lane. It is imperative that renters do not use the E-Tag lane if they do not wish to be charged an administration fee. Renters can still utilize the normal non e-tag toll queue and pay by means of cash or card, but if they use the E-Tag gate they will be charged the toll fee and the admin fee.
* We are running a 3-month trial given the risk that this initiative poses in recuperating funds from renters
A wedding is a memorable event. On such a special day, the wedding party, and particularly the wedding couple, deserve to travel in style from one location to the next!
If you want to add that special touch to your wedding and travel in style, hire a luxury car for your wedding. First Car Rental's wedding car hire offers you lots of advantages.
Car rental services have simplified the process of wedding car hire by offering state-of-the-art online services. The easy online booking form lets you choose your pick-up and drop-off destination, time and type of car in no time at all.
At First Car Rental, there are a range of vehicle and price options for the wedding party, available at your fingertips through the First Car Rental iPhone App or on the First Car Rental website.
Big Entrance, Big Finish
Arriving in a chauffeur-driven car makes you feel like a star. Couples can choose from a number of affordable luxury cars and hiring the right car adds to the styling of your wedding. Wedding car hire also ensures that you are comfortable on the most important day of your life. A luxury car to drive off in for your fairy-tale, honeymoon accommodation also makes for a great finish to wedding.
Wedding party transportation
You can eliminate your wedding transport dilemma by simply hiring a van to do the job. This way everyone gets to the wedding on time and can be there for photography sessions and for the reception after. You can also hire identical luxury cars so that the entire wedding party can travel comfortably and in style.
Wedding Car Hire Tips
Planning is key when it comes to wedding car hire. From choosing the right wedding car hire service provider to planning the travel route on the big day, all factor in to ensuring that there are no hiccups on your big day. Here are some simple tips to consider when arranging wedding car hire.
1. Picking the right car
It's your day and the car you choose is part of the whole package. Try choosing a car that matches your colour plan and style of your wedding. More importantly, brides need to consider the size of the wedding car with respect to their dress.
If you intend to have a 'voluminous' dress with a long train, it's important to choose a car that would allow for comfortable travel and avoid creasing your dress and train.
2. Who is in your Wedding Party?
How many bridesmaids, groomsmen, flower girls page girls will you have at your wedding?
Knowing who needs to be in your wedding party car(s) will determine how many cars you will require on the big day.
3. Time and Distance
Time and distance are important factors to consider when choosing your wedding car hire. Plan your travel route ahead of time and factor in the number of stops you may want to make.
Some couples like to take photos on the way to the wedding venue. Most car rental companies charge you for the day. If you wish to rent multiple cars, speak to your car hire company to discuss a package for the day.
4. Book Early
If anything, make sure to book your car rental well in advance, just as you would your venue or your caterer.
Book with a reliable company and be sure to speak to your car hire provider about backups in case there is a breakdown.
About First Car Rental
First Car Rental is an award-winning South African car hire company with 9 000 cars operating out of 60 branches located at all major South African airports, business and tourist destinations. First Car Rental also boasts an operational presence in Malta, Mauritius & Tanzania.
We have branches throughout South Africa where wedding cars for hire can be collected. Find the nearest First Car Rental branch to the wedding location now.
Visa requirements for visiting South Africa
When travelling to South Africa, it is essential that you meet the country's entry requirements before leaving your home country. Continue reading to learn what visitor visa requirements may apply to you.
Please note, the following information is for South African visitor visas. Visitor's visas are only for international travellers who wish to visit the country on a temporary basis for tourism or business purposes for a period of 90 days or less.
Who needs a visa to visit South Africa?
Not all nationalities need to have visas in order to visit South Africa. If you have dual citizenship in South Africa and another country, and have a national South African passport, you will not require a visa to enter the country.
African Union; Andorra; Argentina; Australia; Austria; Belgium; Botswana; Brazil; Canada; Chile; Czech Republic; Denmark; Ecuador; Finland; France; Germany; Greece; Iceland; Israel; Italy; Jamaica; Japan; Liechtenstein; Luxemburg; Malta; Monaco; Namibia; Netherlands; New Zealand; Norway; Panama; Paraguay; Portugal; San Marino; Singapore; Spain; St Vincent & the Grenadines; Sweden; Switzerland; Tanzania; Trinidad & Tobago; United Kingdom; Uruguay; Venezuela; United States of America; Zambia; and Zimbabwe.
Antigua and Barbuda; Bahamas; Barbados; Belize; Benin; Bolivia; Cape Verde; Costa Rica; Cyprus; Gabon; Guyana; Hong Kong; Hungary; Jordan; Lesotho; Macau; Malaysia; Malawi; Maldives; Mauritius; Mozambique; Namibia; Peru; Poland; Seychelles; Slovak Republic; South Korea; Swaziland; Thailand; and Turkey.
What to submit with your South African visa application form
Citizens from countries that require a Visitor Visa to be issued before travelling to South Africa need to apply for the visa in-person at the relevant visa processing centre, consulate or embassy in their country of origin and collect that visa in person.
In order to be issued a South African visitor's visa, you must submit certain information and documents, including:
Children travelling in and out of South Africa
Whenever an adult travels with a child, he or she must produce(amongst other documents - see below for details)an unabridged birth certificate in respect of that child at any South African port of entry.This requirement applies to:
In the instance where both parents are travelling together with one or more of their children, they will need to produce:
In the instance where only one parent is travelling with a child, he or she will need to produce:
A child that is unaccompanied by his or her parents or legal guardian, will need to produce:
This South African Visitor Visa information is correct as of 1 August 2015. However, regulation is subject to change at any time.
It's highly recommended that you consult the South African embassy in your home country, in order to ensure that you meet all relevant criteria. Alternatively, consult South Africa Home Affairs for more information on visa requirements for entering South Africa.
South Africa's new child travel laws explained
To ensure your holiday isn't over before it begins, read First Car Rental's guide on the new child travel regulations
On 1 June 2015, new child travel rules were implemented by the South African Home Affairs Department in an effort to combat child trafficking.
These regulations apply to South Africans as well as foreign nationals, and mean that travellers will be required to produce further documentation in addition to passports and visas (where applicable) when entering or leaving South Africa with children under 18 years old.
DISCLAIMER: The information on this page is intended as a guide only. While First Car Rental has made every effort to ensure information is correct and up-to-date, the South African Government's laws are subject to change without notice.
Sections covered in this guide:
Unabridged Birth Certificate
The first requirement for anyone travelling with children, whether parents of the child, relatives, family friends or school teachers, is that an Unabridged Birth Certificate be produced at the South African border for each child traveller.This is in addition to the child's passport and travel visa (where applicable).
An Unabridged Birth Certificate contains details of both parents of the child. All children born in South Africa after 14 March 2013 were automatically issued with a valid Unabridged Birth Certificate free of charge. Children borne before 14 March 2013 were automatically issued with a standard Abridged Birth Certificate showing only their mother's name.
International travellers and unabridged birth certificates
Foreign children travelling to South Africa will need a legal document, issued by the relevant authority in their home country, containing information similar to South Africa's Unabridged Birth Certificate, including details of both parents.
In the case of countries that do not issue similar documents to the Unabridged Birth Certificate, a letter to this effect issued by the competent authority of the foreign country will need to be produced. For the correct format of this letter (published by Home Affairs),click here.
In cases where the Unabridged Birth Certificate is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by a sworn translation issued by a competent authority in the country concerned.
Adopted children
In cases where a child is adopted, the parents of the child will need to produce proof of adoption by means of an official adoption certificate in addition to the child's Unabridged Birth Certificate.
Applying for your child's Unabridged Birth Certificate
If you're planning a holiday outside of South Africa, make sure to apply for your child's Unabridged Birth Certificate well in advance of your departure date.The time frame to acquire an Unabridged Birth Certificate from the date of application varies greatly, from a few weeks to several months.
To apply:
Child-travel situations and the documents required:
Both parents travelling with one or more of their children.
In the instance where both South African or foreign national parents are travelling together with one or more of their children, they will need to produce:
One parent travelling together with one or more of their children
If only one parent is travelling with a child, whether the child is a South African citizen or from elsewhere, more documents will need to be presented at South Africa's border post.
The documents required are:
Child travellers accompanied by an adult that is not their parent
When a child is travelling with an adult that is not their parent or legal guardian, the following documents must be produced at South Africa's border post:
Children travelling alone
When a child is entering or leaving South Africa unaccompanied by any adult, they must produce:
Use the correct documents
There have been a number of reports regarding families who were refused entry into or exit out of South Africa due to not providing the correct-format letter or affidavit of consent.
Important Contacts
Before travelling, it's highly recommended that you consult the South African embassy in your home country, in order to ensure that you meet all relevant criteria. Alternatively, consult South Africa Home Affairs for more information on South Africa's new child travel requirements.
PLEASE NOTE:The information on this page is a guide to assist people with new South African immigration laws. The information was correct at the time of publishing; First Car Rental takes no responsibility for any of the information being out of date or incorrectly noted.
To rent a car atFirst Car Rentalis quick and easy.Book now!All you need is a valid driver's licence (or passport if you're a tourist) and a credit card in your name. No debit cards.
A valid driver's licence
You must be 23 or older with a valid driver's licence that you've held for two years or more. What if I'm younger than 23? A Young driver surcharge may apply but your licence must be valid for a minimum of three years.
Visiting South Africa? Simply bring your driver's licence, and your passport. Do note that non-English licences must come with an English translation in the form of an international driver's permit.
Payment by credit card. No debit cards
First Car Rental accepts all major credit cards, we unfortunately do not accept Debit cards, Virtual or Digital cards.
The credit card holder must also be the renter of the vehicle. Make sure to present the same credit card you made your online booking with at the First Car Rental branch.
If you're a visitor to South Africa, please ensure your bank has authorised your credit card for the period you'll be visiting.
Compulsory payment at start of rental
Do I pay the full rental amount at the start of the rental? Yes, but the full amount is not taken off your credit card. Part of the amount is only an authorisation that is kept as a deposit (and is refundable at the end of your rental period if the vehicle is returned in the same condition as when it went out on rent).
The full payment due at the start of your rental will include additional charges you have selected such as baby seats, one-way fees, cross-border fees, and so on. For a detailed breakdown of First Car Rental's 'Payment and Authorisation' policy, please visit theFAQsection.
Deposits at start of rental
You will pay a Renter's Responsibility deposit toward any possible loss or damage to the vehicle. First Car Rental also requires a fuel and tolls deposit. To find out how the deposit refund works, visit theFAQsection.
Additional information
Find everything you need to know about traffic fines, what to do in the event of an accident or breakdown, rental period extensions, border-crossing fees, and any other relevant information in ourFAQsection.
Welcome to First Car Rental - your ultimate destination for hassle-free and affordable car rentals in South Africa.
Whether you're planning an extended vacation, a business trip, or simply need a reliable vehicle for an extended period, we're here to meet your needs with our comprehensive long-term car rental services, often also referred to as a mini lease. We offer exemplary service and variety from our budget vehicles to executive cars for hire, to the length of your rental period.
At First Car Rental, we understand that some adventures require more time to unfold. That's why we offer long-term car rental options designed to provide you with unparalleled convenience and flexibility. Whether you need a vehicle for a few weeks, months, or even longer, we have flexible rental terms to suit your schedule and budget.
Choose from our diverse fleet of vehicles, including compact cars, spacious SUVs, luxury sedans, and more. Whatever your preference or requirement, we have the perfect vehicle to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Benefits of monthly car rental:
Long term car hire can benefit you in more ways than one. Not only will you have a smashing set of wheels for your own personal use, but you can also reap the following rewards:
Experience the convenience, flexibility, and affordability of long-term car rental with First Car Rental. Book your long-term rental vehicle today and embark on your next adventure with confidence.
Browse our comprehensive selection of long-term car rental options, get a quotation and book the car that is suited to your needs.
After all the chaos of work and a busy lifestyle, a holiday can be the best way to unwind and get a little R&R. If a road trip spells vacation for you, then consider renting a car rather than taking your own. Renting a car can offer you many advantages when on vacation and here is a look at what those advantages are.
Experience more
Driving can be one of the best ways to really experience your vacation destination and since you are in control, you don't have to worry about when to start your journey and where to end it. You can make as many pits stops and you like, stop to take pictures and take in the scenic views. When you rent a car you can save mileage on your own car, especially on those long drives.
Better safety and performance
Rental cars are often in much better shape than your own car would be in. Rental cars often have less mileage on them and are frequently serviced to ensure that they you can enjoy a safe and happy drive on your vacation.
24 Hours breakdown assistance
In the event of a breakdown (which is rare, but anything can happen on holiday), you can always depend on the 24-hour breakdown car rental assistance like flat tyre assistance, towing services and emergency fuel delivery.
Choose your car
Based on the kind of vacation you are on, you can choose the kind of car you need for the ride. Car rental companies offer a wide choice of car groups that you can pick from. So whether it's a 4x4 or a luxury car you fancy, you have a choice.Choosing a rental car also gives you the chance to try a car that you are considering purchasing. You get hands-on experience on driving the car, testing its comfort and the performance.
Budget travel
If budget travel with family is your key concern then renting a car could be a great way to save money on airline tickets. Look for car hire services that give you budget rentals, which are often a great choice for long drive vacations and are comfortable to drive. When you rent a car from a reliable car rental company you can expect better fuel mileage on the car and save a heap of money on your vacation. Choosing car rental companies that do not charge refuelling fees can also be a smart way to budget your vacation.
Convenience for international travellers
If you are visiting a country for the first time,renting a car can be a cheap and easy mode of transport. Some car rental companies even offer useful services like cellphone and GPS hire that make finding your way in a new place much easier.
Make sure you do thorough research on the various car rental companies of the area. Make sure you rent a car from a trusted service provider that offers you easy pick up and drop off. Also make sure you understand the driving regulations of the country and have a valid International Driver's License before you rent a car. If you are someone who frequently travels abroad, look for car rental services that have loyalty programs that let you enjoy discounts and cheaper rates.
Easy booking and payment
The brilliance of renting a car these days is that you can make your booking online and even make payments using your credit card. Renting a car couldn't be easier than this.
When you rent a car your vacation will be much more fun than you hoped for.
