OR Tambo Airport Car Rental: The Complete Guide for Arrivals & Departures

Published 1 May 2025 · By Car Rental Plus · 9 min read

OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) is Africa’s busiest airport and the main gateway into Johannesburg and Gauteng. Whether you’re arriving on a domestic flight from Cape Town or landing from an international connection, having a rental car waiting makes your South African trip significantly more flexible and convenient. This complete guide covers everything you need to know about car rental at OR Tambo Airport — from where to collect your vehicle to insider tips for a smooth experience.

Why Rent a Car at OR Tambo Airport?

Johannesburg and the greater Gauteng region are best explored by road. The city sprawls across a large area, and while the Gautrain connects OR Tambo to Sandton and Pretoria, a rental car gives you the freedom to reach suburbs, business parks, game reserves, and attractions on your own schedule. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available but can be unreliable during peak hours. For business travellers, families, and tourists alike, hiring a car at OR Tambo is the most practical choice.

Car Rental Plus offers a meet-and-greet service at OR Tambo, meaning your vehicle is ready and waiting the moment you clear customs — no queues, no waiting. We serve both Terminal A (international arrivals) and Terminal B (domestic arrivals).

Where to Collect Your Rental Car at OR Tambo

OR Tambo has a dedicated car rental area located in the basement level of the terminal building, easily accessible via the escalators or lifts after baggage claim. Most major rental operators have desks in this zone. Car Rental Plus also offers off-airport collection, which is typically faster and more personalised — our representative will meet you at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name.

Documents You’ll Need at Pickup

• Valid driver’s licence (held for at least 1 year)
• International Driving Permit (if your licence is not in English)
• Passport or South African ID
• Credit or debit card in the driver’s name (for deposit)
• Your booking confirmation (email or printed)

For full details on rental requirements, read our guide: Car Rental Requirements in South Africa.

Getting from OR Tambo into Johannesburg

Once you have your rental car, OR Tambo is well connected to Johannesburg via the N12 and N3 highways. Key distances and approximate drive times from OR Tambo:

Tips for a Smooth OR Tambo Car Rental Experience

1. Book early: Secure your vehicle class in advance, especially for SUVs and luxury cars.
2. Check flight delays: Inform Car Rental Plus if your flight is delayed so your vehicle is held for you.
3. Inspect the vehicle: Do a walk-around with our representative and note any pre-existing marks on the condition report before driving off.
4. Fuel policy: All Car Rental Plus vehicles are provided with a full tank — return it full to avoid refuelling charges.
5. Driving in SA: South Africa drives on the left. Take extra care at intersections and on highways, especially at night.
6. E-tolls: The Gauteng freeway system has e-tolls. Confirm with us whether your vehicle has an e-tag installed.

Vehicle Classes Available at OR Tambo

Car Rental Plus offers a wide selection of vehicles suitable for every need at OR Tambo. Whether you’re travelling solo on business or with the family, we have the right car for your trip.

• Economy & compact cars — ideal for city driving and budget-conscious travellers
• Mid-size sedans — comfort for business travel
• SUVs & 4x4s — perfect for game reserves or long-distance drives
• Luxury vehicles — executive BMW, Mercedes-Benz for VIP arrivals
• 7-seater MPVs — family-friendly spacious options

Ready to Book Your OR Tambo Car Rental?

Booking with Car Rental Plus is simple. Visit our vehicle fleet page, select your dates and pickup location (OR Tambo International Airport), choose your vehicle, and complete the secure online booking. Our team will confirm your reservation and send full collection instructions.

Need help or have a special request? Call us on +27 10 825 5706 or email bookings@carrental-plus.com. We’re available 24/7.