Guide to Driving in South Africa

Hiring a car in South Africa opens up the whole country for you to explore and see the many varying sights that the country has to offer. Although during the daylight, driving is a great way to get around, it is advised that you avoid driving at night, especially in the large cities. If you drive to the more remote parts, carrying a mobile phone is essential.

Traffic rules do differ to that which you are used to. Traffic lights are often referred to as robots, when the light is green and you wish to turn right, approaching traffic still has right of way. If lights turn amber, you must slow down and stop. A flashing green arrow indicates you can go. A flashing red arrow on the left means you can turn, as long as the road is clear. A steady red or green arrow means you can proceed with caution.

Four way stops are common in South Africa and generally speaking the first car to arrive at the four way stop will have right of way. If you arrive at the same time as another car, common courtesy applies. Car hire in South Africa is a fantastic way to discover and explore this diverse country.

Why not read our South Africa travel guide, you may also like to view information about destinations in South Africa.

Essential Driving Information

• The minimum driving age is 18 years.
• The first to arrive at a junction has priority.
• Traffic drives on the left hand side.
• Local drivers will expect slower traffic to move onto the hard shoulder to allow them to overtake.
• Motorways in South Africa do not have deceleration lanes, instead on approach to an exit there are warning boards.
• You must inform police of an accident within 24 hours.
• All passengers in a vehicle must wear a seatbelt.
• It is illegal to use a hand held mobile phone whilst driving.
• Many of the national roads are toll roads so ensure that you have cash or a credit card with you.
• You are advised to obtain an International Driving Permit.
• The blood alcohol limits is 50mg alcohol per 100ml of blood.
• All road signs are in English.
• A single yellow line means no parking at any time; a single red line means no stopping. You must not park facing oncoming traffic.
• It is illegal to park a vehicle on the opposite side of the road facing oncoming traffic.
• A road toll is payable on freeways within the Gauteng province. The routes affected will include the N1 from Pretoria, the R24 to the R21 to Pretoria and Johannesburg's ring roads on the Randburg and Alberton routes. There will be 185km of roads affected by the tolls. If travelling on these routes you will be charged and billed at the end of the rental by the supplier. Lightweight vehicles are set to be charged 40c/km.

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