As an Australian driving in South Africa, what differences in traffic or road rules do I need to know?

As an Australian driving in South Africa, what differences in traffic or road rules do I need to know? - White sign on roadside with speed limit against empty green field at daytime

As an Australian driving in South Africa, what differences in traffic or road rules do I need to know?

I'm interested in:

  • any differences in rules
  • any differences in usually accepted practices
  • any additional safety precautions

I'll be driving around Cape Town and to Port Elizabeth. I don't intend to drive at night.






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As an Australian driving in South Africa, what differences in traffic or road rules do I need to know? - Stickers attached to pillar on city street
As an Australian driving in South Africa, what differences in traffic or road rules do I need to know? - Parked Cars on Snow Covered Ground
As an Australian driving in South Africa, what differences in traffic or road rules do I need to know? - Cars Ahead on Road



Which rule is considered 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.

Can I drive in South Africa with an Australian license?

To drive in South Africa, foreigners must have a full license from their country of residence. Licenses printed in English are valid, an International Driver's Permit (IDP) must be obtained if the license is in any other language. The license should be signed by the permit holder and have a photograph.

Are driving rules different in other countries?

Traffic rules may vary considerably from one country to another. Right, and left-hand traffic, highest-posted speed limits, drink-driving laws: learn about your host country's driving regulations.

How do you cross the road in South Africa?

In South Africa, a pedestrian should only cross a public road at a pedestrian crossing or an intersection. The driver of a vehicle should then yield the right of way but, even though this is the case, a pedestrian should never run into the path of a vehicle that is so close that it can't slow down or stop in time.



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Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Brett Sayles, Sinitta Leunen, Boris Hamer, Taras Makarenko