Did you know the South African driver’s license is valid in 34 countries? Popular destinations such as France, Australia, Mauritius, Greece and many others accept the South African license, with varying terms and conditions.
According to a recent article published by BusinessTech, South Africans may use their licenses in 34 international countries around the globe.
The terms and conditions of driving with a South African license vary from country to country.
For example, in some countries – such as Botswana, Australia, Luxembourg, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, you may only be allowed to use your license for up to three months.
Unsplash / Nuno Antunes
Whereas, in other countries such as Sweden, Hungary, Eswatini and the United States (with the exception of some states), you may use your license until it expires. Some countries have regulatory terms attached. For example, in Hungary, you may use your South African license to drive under the condition that you keep a notarised copy of the license.
If you’re planning on driving from South Africa to another country, or if you’re renting a car in a foreign country, obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) online from the Automobile Association is recommended, and sometimes mandatory.
This document not only provides validation of your domestic license and your identity, but it is also useful in non-English speaking countries, as it translates your license into several different languages, including the UN’s five official languages, states BusinessTech.
If you are emigrating from South Africa and moving to another continent, a driver’s license confirmation letter, also known as a driver’s license certificate, will be required for you to drive in your new country. With this document, you should be able to convert your license into the corresponding license of your destination country. However, this varies according to country. Sometimes, you might be required to apply for the country’s license, or to obtain an International Driver’s License.
As per Apostil.co.za, the South African license is valid in 34 countries for long-term visitors and immigrants, but regulations differ according to your situation, where you are going, and for how long. Thorough research is required before hitting the road in any foreign country – you must ensure you comply with all regulations.
- Andorra
- Angola
- Australia
- Botswana
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Croatia
- Estonia
- Eswatini
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Lesotho
- Luxembourg
- Mauritius
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Mozambique
- Namibia
- New Zealand
- Panama
- Poland
- Portugal
- Russia
- San Marino
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Sweden
- UK
- United States
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
Image: Seif Amr
