Empire Fleet Solutions

With the 2010 Soccer Finals just three month away, many football supporters from around the globe, especially those from the United Kingdom, have a lot of enquiries regarding the laws in South Africa.  They want to find out what they may or may not do while trying to enjoy the country when their teams are not playing.  One particular question being asked by Britons is whether or not they can drive a rental car in South Africa using their UK driver’s license.

The answer is quite simple.  Yes, Britons can drive a rental car in South Africa using their UK driver’s license.  Any foreign driver’s license may be used in South Africa, for that matter, as long as it is in English.  However, if the original is not in English, a translation must be obtained.  It is better yet to obtain a “green card license” from some South African traffic department.  Britons should note that UK driver’s licenses cannot be replaced if they are lost or stolen in South Africa.  Some foreign driver’s licenses, which may include UK driver’s licenses, may not be covered by South African car insurers.  This is why it is worth obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP).  If you are involved in a car accident, most South African car insurance companies will insist on seeing one.  An International Driving Permit will thus make your driving experience just so much more enjoyable as you do not have to worry about all the legal stuff.

In order to drive legally in South Africa, you must have your full UK driver’s license.  The minimum age to drive legally in South Africa is 18, which means even if you are 17 with your full UK driver’s license you will not be able to drive in South Africa.  However, to legally drive a rental car in South Africa, that number shoots up to 21.  You will be glad to hear that the modern photo license is also accepted in South Africa.  If you still have the old style paper license though, you will need to have this authenticated by the Consular Section at the British High Commission or by the Consulate General located in Cape Town.  Keep in mind that South Africa is also a left hand drive country like the United Kingdom, so for most people from the UK, it shouldn’t be too hard to get used to finding their way around.