Are you planning an overseas holiday and keen on road tripping across Italy or cruising down Route 66? Then you'll need more than just car snacks and playlists. You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP). It’s your golden ticket to legal, hassle-free driving abroad and essential to avoid awkward conversations with foreign traffic cops. 

Let’s break it down, the easy-peasy way. 

 

Can I Drive Overseas with a South African Driver’s License? 

You can use that trusty little SA driver's card only in certain countries. Most destinations will ask for an international driving permit alongside your SA licence. 

Pro tip: Your SA license must be valid and not expired to apply for an IDP. A suspended or expired licence? That’s a nope. 

RELATED: HOW TO CHECK YOUR DRIVING LICENCE STATUS IN SOUTH AFRICA 

 

What Is the Easiest Way to Get an International Driver’s Permit? 

Through the Automobile Association of South Africa (AA): They’ve streamlined the process so you can drop gears and disappear ASAP. Just ensure you apply before leaving the country because you can’t get one when you’re abroad.  

Online: Apply for an international driving permit online here and complete the application form! We said it would be easy-peasy, right? 

In-store: Use their branch locator to find the closest AA-accredited sales agents and get your international driving permit in-store.  

 

How To Get an International Driving Permit in South Africa 

Option 1: Apply Online 

Just a few clicks and you’re ready: 

-A copy of your valid South African driver’s licence

-Your ID or a valid passport

-A passport-sized photo (just one per IDP type). 

  • Choose your preferred collection branch. 
  • Submit and wait for a ready-for-collection alert. 

Heads-up: You still have to collect your IDP in person, but the paperwork is sorted ahead of time. 

Option 2: Apply In-Store 

Do you need it in a hurry? If you visit a participating AA Travel Experience outlet, you can leave there with your IDP in hand after about 10-30 minutes. 

Bring the following: 

  • Your valid SA driver’s licence 
  • Your ID or passport 
  • A passport-sized photo (some stores can take them for you, so call ahead to check!). 

Either way, it’s easy-peasy-lemon-squeezy! 

 

AA International Driving Permit: Some FAQs Answered 

The AA is the only officially recognised issuer of IDPs in South Africa. They’ll issue your permit according to the country you’re visiting (there are different versions, depending on the destination). The most common type is the 1949 Convention IDP. 

 We didn’t make this up earlier. The AA also recommends always carrying both your SA licence and your IDP when driving abroad. 

How Much Does an International Driving Permit From South Africa Cost? 

As of 2025, the cost is approximately R350, depending on the type and the branch. Some branches might charge extra for the passport photos if you don’t bring your own. 

How Long Does It Take to Get an IDP in South Africa? 

The good news is that applying in person with all the right documents is instant. You’ll walk out with your permit, ready to conquer foreign roads.  

 

The Advantages of International Driving Permits 

  • The ability to drive in over 150 countries
  • Translated ID info (really helpful in non-English-speaking countries) 
  • Peace of mind with car rental agencies 
  • No fines for not having it where required. 

 

On the Road… But Smarter 

Getting an international driving permit in South Africa is easier than you think and much less stressful than trying to charm a traffic officer in Paris with your Afrikaans. So, wherever you’re heading, sort out your IDP ahead of time and drive stress-free. 

Speaking of driving stress-free, with dotsure.co.za car insurance, Name Your Price™ lets you choose cover that fits your budget. So, when you’re driving your own car on home soil, you’re covered and protected too! 

Do you still have questions? Contact us here or explore more travel and motor tips on our blogs below! 

 

 

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