Due to the public transport not being so reliable, many expats choose to buy their own car to get around the country. Driving is on the left hand side of the road and foreign nationals are able to drive in the country using their home country’s driving license. The license must be English or in one of the country’s 10 official languages, valid and should have a photo of the driver. It is recommended that you apply for an international drivers permit before leaving your home country.
The roads in South Africa are chaotic with the amount of traffic there is and with the constant traffic lights not working. It is important to drive with care although the roads are in good condition but in many areas do not have maintained roads. The road network is quite large with around 40% being metalled; you will find that many of the roads are tolled including N1, N2, N3 and N4 sections.
Road tax and car insurance is not a legal requirement in South Africa and does not need to be paid for.
Expats wanting to buy a car, will find that they are quite expensive but petrol prices are quite low especially for diesel.
When driving in South Africa you will need to have your vehicle registration documents as well as a valid driving license.
Speed Limits
- Speed limits must be followed when driving in South Africa. The general speed limits are:
- Public Road within urban area: 37mph
- Public road outside an urban area which is not a freeway : 62mph
- Freeways/Motorways: 75mph