When driving anywhere in South Africa, try to apply the following safety precautions: Always drive with your doors locked and windows wound up, especially when stopped at traffic lights. … Take advice from your hosts where you are staying, and ask if there are any areas that tourists should avoid driving through.
Can foreigners drive in South Africa?
You must submit the following: An acceptable identification as required by South African legislation (e.g. identity document (ID), temporary ID, valid South African passport, or foreign passport with permanent residence permit) Four black-and-white ID sized photographs. Current foreign driving licence.
Is driving in South Africa safe for tourists?
Driving in South Africa is generally safe and enjoyable, and it is easy see the major highlights in a 2 or 3 week driving holiday.
Is it safe to rent a car in South Africa?
The country is one of the best places in the world to rent a car because it’s very self-drive friendly. Public transport is minimal in the cities and essentially non-existent in rural areas. … I’ve road tripped in South Africa many times, and can honestly say that renting a car is cheap, safe and highly recommended.
Can a Zimbabwean drive in South Africa?
People with Zim licences are permitted to drive in South Africa… Only if a person has been given permanent residency they then get a South African licence.
What is the most important rule of the road in South Africa?
The most important rule of the road in South Africa is to keep your vehicle as close to the left hand side of the road as possible. Don’t exceed the speed limit. A safe following distance is when you are able to bring your car to a halt without swerving to avoid the car in front of you if it suddenly stops.
How much does a driver’s license cost in South Africa?
Step 2: Getting your driver’s license
The application (driving test) is R135 in Cape Town (Code B, a car no more than 3500kg), and the issue of the license itself will set you back another R140.
Which is the most dangerous city in South Africa?
Pretoria was ranked as the most dangerous city in the country in 2020/21, with the highest crime score and lowest safety score. Pietermaritzburg, which topped the local ranking in 2019/20, dropped to fourth overall, with both Johannesburg and Durban now perceived to be more dangerous.
Can you sleep in your car in South Africa?
No person shall, in a public place—(a)sleep in a stationary motor vehicle except in dire emergency (or where such a person is the driver of a public transportation motor vehicle or is guarding the motor vehicle) or in a designated rest area; or(b)reside in a motor vehicle for longer than twenty-four hours.
Do you stop at red lights in South Africa?
Safety Tip 4: Don’t stop at the red light at night!
Carjacking is so common in South Africa, it is now acceptable to ignore stop signs and red-light at night. Carjacking and violent crimes can commonly happen at intersections where people prey on isolated cars which stop in front of a red light at night.
Is Cape Town safer than Johannesburg?
Cape Town has relatively high crime figures compared to Johannesburg. Sure, each city has its good and bad spots, but generally Cape Town is worse than Johannesburg. If you are a tourist visiting Cape Town, be extra vigilant.
How does car rental work in South Africa?
In South Africa you need to be 18 years or older to rent a car and must have held a valid driver license for a year. If you are younger than 25 a Young Drivers Surcharge will be applied. This will automatically be added to your quote when booking online.
Is Cape Town safe at night?
Is Cape Town safe at night? Unless you’re staying in a resort, it is not safe to walk around at night in Cape Town. While touristy areas might be safer, you should definitely avoid going into dark side streets or quiet areas by yourself (or at all).
Can I use my UK driving Licence in South Africa?
You can drive in South Africa with a valid UK photocard driving licence for up to 12 months. If you have a paper licence, you should also get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before you travel.
How do I get an international driving permit in South Africa?
South Africans can obtain an IDP at an AA office closest to them for the country they intend travelling to. The application is done in accordance with the laws of the country the traveller intends visiting – since permit requirements vary from country to country.
How long does South African permanent residency last?
Permanent residency differs from temporary residency in two distinct ways: As a permanent resident, you can reside, work, study and start a business freely in South Africa. Permanent residence does not expire and remains valid indefinitely. You must simply enter South Africa once every three years.