Car Rental Requirements in South Africa: Documents, Age & What to Expect
Published 1 May 2025 · By Car Rental Plus · 7 min read
Before you arrive at the pickup counter, it’s important to know exactly what documents and conditions are required to rent a car in South Africa. Being unprepared can cause frustrating delays or even prevent you from collecting your vehicle. This guide covers all the requirements you need to know — for both South African residents and international visitors.
Essential Documents You Need to Rent a Car
Valid Driver's Licence
Your licence must have been held for at least 12 months. For international visitors, the licence must be in English — if not, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required alongside the original licence.
Proof of Identity
South African residents: a green barcoded ID or smart card. International visitors: a valid passport. The name on your ID must match the name on your licence and booking.
Payment Card
A credit or debit card in the main driver's name is required. The card is used to authorise the security deposit (typically R3,000–R10,000 depending on vehicle class). The deposit is released within 7–14 days of return.
Booking Confirmation
Bring your booking confirmation email or reference number. This speeds up the pickup process and confirms your vehicle allocation.
Minimum Age to Rent a Car in South Africa
The minimum legal age to rent a car in South Africa is 18 years, provided the driver holds a valid driver’s licence. However, car rental company policies vary:
- Drivers aged 18–20: Young driver surcharge applies; vehicle classes may be limited.
- Drivers aged 21–24: Young driver surcharge may still apply depending on the vehicle category.
- Drivers aged 25+: Standard rates apply with access to all vehicle classes.
- Luxury & high-performance vehicles: Minimum age of 23–25 typically required.
At Car Rental Plus, we serve drivers from age 18. Contact us to confirm surcharges for your age group before booking.
Guide for International Visitors & Tourists
South Africa is a popular destination for international self-drive trips, and the country’s rental companies welcome foreign visitors. Here’s what international renters should know:
- Your foreign driver’s licence is valid in SA for up to 6 months if it is in English.
- If your licence is not in English (e.g. Chinese, Arabic, German), you must carry an IDP alongside it.
- An IDP must be issued in your home country before travelling — it cannot be obtained in South Africa.
- EU licences with a photo are accepted. Older paper licences (UK pre-1998) must be accompanied by an IDP.
Driving in South Africa
South Africa drives on the left-hand side of the road. The speed limits are 60 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on freeways. Traffic fines for speeding are steep — adhere strictly to the limits.
Security Deposit & Insurance Explained
All Car Rental Plus rentals include comprehensive insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance. An excess (also called a liability amount) applies if the vehicle is damaged or stolen. The amount depends on the vehicle class and is clearly stated at booking.
A refundable security deposit is blocked on your card at pickup. This is a temporary hold, not a charge — it is released within 7–14 banking days after the vehicle is returned in its original condition. We recommend using a credit card for this purpose as debit card holds can affect your available balance for longer.
Additional Drivers
If another person will be driving the rental vehicle, they must be added as an additional driver at pickup. All additional drivers must meet the same licence and age requirements and must be present at collection with their documents. A small daily fee per additional driver may apply.
Ready to Book?
Now that you know exactly what to bring, booking your car hire in South Africa is quick and easy. Browse our fleet, select your pickup location — including OR Tambo Airport, Sandton, or Cape Town — and complete your booking online in minutes.