Driving in South Africa as a United Kingdom National
South Africa drives on the left with stunning scenic routes like the Garden Route, but requires vigilance due to aggressive minibus taxis, wildlife crossings, and safety concerns in certain areas.
Key Things to Know First
South Africa requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in United Kingdom before departure.
How to get an IDPBoth United Kingdom and South Africa drive on the left. No adjustment needed.
United Kingdom uses mph, but South Africa uses km/h. Verify your GPS or navigation app is set to the correct unit.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Rule | United Kingdom | South Africa | Change? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traffic side | Left-hand traffic | Left-hand traffic | Same |
| Speed unit | mph | km/h | Yes |
| IDP required | — | Yes | Yes |
| Min. driving age | 17 | 18 | Differs |
| Emergency number | 999 | 10111 | Different |
| Road difficulty | Moderate | Challenging | — |
Speed Limits in South Africa
Speed limits in South Africa are posted in km/h (kilometres per hour). Quick reference: 50 km/h ≈ 31 mph · 100 km/h ≈ 62 mph · 130 km/h ≈ 81 mph.
Documents to Carry in South Africa
- Original driving licence from United Kingdom — must be valid and unexpired
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — required in South Africa. Obtain from your national motoring association before travelling.
- Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
- Car insurance certificate — verify it covers South Africa before departure
- Vehicle registration / rental agreement
Emergency Number in South Africa
Primary emergency number in South Africa. Save it before you drive.
Emergency numbers for all countriesFull South Africa Driving Guide
Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in South Africa.
Read the complete guide