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World Driving Permit

🇿🇦 South Africa driving licence translation & IDP

1949 + 1968 IDP· Issues IDPs under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions· Last reviewed 20 Jun 2026

Short answer

As a South Africa driver you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, covering the widest range of countries. Carry the IDP with your original South Africa licence. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.

Driving abroad with a South Africa licence

South Africa is party to both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, so South Africa drivers obtain their International Driving Permit at home before travelling. The IDP is an official translation of your licence into multiple languages; it is valid only alongside the original card and only while that card remains valid. A separate certified translation companion is useful at police stops and rental desks where staff need a quick, readable copy of your licence details.

What South Africa drivers should carry abroad

  • Your original South Africa driving licence (physical card)
  • Passport with any required visa or entry stamp
  • An International Driving Permit issued in South Africa under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions
  • A certified translation companion to speed up police and rental-desk checks
  • Proof of insurance valid in your destination

Translate your South Africa licence

A certified, multi-language translation companion for your South Africa licence — ready to carry alongside the original. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Check a specific destination

Get a tailored answer for your South Africa licence, your destination, dates and vehicle.

Popular destinations for South Africa drivers

Do you need an IDP at your destination? Jump to the sourced country guide:

South Africa drivers: frequently asked questions

What do I need to drive abroad with a South Africa driving licence?
As a South Africa driver you can obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions, covering the widest range of countries. Carry the IDP with your original South Africa licence. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.
Which International Driving Permit does South Africa issue?
South Africa issues IDPs under both the 1949 Geneva and 1968 Vienna Conventions. Your IDP must be obtained in South Africa before you travel from an authorised issuer; it is a recognised translation of your licence and is always carried together with the original.
Does a certified translation replace an IDP for South Africa drivers?
No. A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks read your South Africa licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence alongside it. A certified translation still speeds up roadside and rental-desk checks abroad, especially in countries whose officials don't work in your licence's language.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? How to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Driving licence translation for other countries