How to get your international driver's license in South Africa

If you’re planning to drive abroad, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your South African driver’s license. An IDP is a legally recognized document that translates your driver’s license information into multiple languages, making it easier for foreign authorities to verify your driving credentials. In this guide, we’ll explain who needs an IDP, how to apply for one, and how to get your required photos quickly and easily.

Contents

1 Who needs an IDP?

2 How to apply for an IDP

3 Documents required

4 Passport photo requirements

5 Processing time and validity

6 Cost of an IDP in South Africa

7 Get your IDP photos quickly with Smartphone iD

8 Where to collect your IDP

9 Sources

10 Continue Reading

Who needs an IDP?

South African citizens who intend to drive in foreign countries should obtain an International Driving Permit. While an IDP is not a substitute for your domestic driver’s license, it serves as an official translation recognized in over 150 countries worldwide. You’ll need to carry both your South African driver’s license and your IDP when driving abroad. It’s important to note that IDP requirements vary by country, so check the specific regulations of your destination before traveling.

How to apply for an IDP

To apply for an International Driving Permit in South Africa, follow these steps:

Ensure you have a valid South African driver’s license. Your license must be current and unexpired throughout the duration of your international travel.
Gather the required documents. These are outlined in the next paragraph.
Submit your application in person at an Automobile Association of South Africa (AA) branch or by mail to the AA head office in Johannesburg. The AA is the authorized issuer of IDPs in South Africa.
Pay the applicable fees for your IDP.
Wait for your IDP to be processed and issued. You can collect it in person or have it mailed to you, depending on your preference.

Documents required

When applying for your South African IDP, you’ll need to submit the following documents:

Your original valid South African driver’s license
A certified copy of your driver’s license
Two identical passport-sized photographs
A completed IDP application form (available from AA branches or online)
Proof of payment for the IDP fee

Passport photo requirements

The passport-sized photographs for your IDP application must adhere to the following specifications:

Photos must be 35mm wide x 45mm high
Taken against a plain white or light gray background
Printed on high-quality photographic paper
Clear, in focus, and showing your full face looking directly at the camera
Taken within the past 6 months to reflect your current appearance
No hats, sunglasses, or other accessories obscuring your face
Digital photos are accepted if they meet the quality and size requirements

Processing time and validity

Once the Automobile Association receives your complete IDP application, processing typically takes 2-3 working days. However, this timeline may vary depending on the volume of applications being processed at the time. It’s best to apply for your IDP well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing and delivery. Your South African International Driving Permit is valid for one year from the date of issue, after which you’ll need to renew it if you plan to continue driving abroad.

Cost of an IDP in South Africa

As of 2024, the cost of obtaining an International Driving Permit in South Africa is R349. This fee is payable to the Automobile Association when submitting your application. The price includes the processing and issuing of your IDP, as well as any applicable taxes. Keep in mind that additional costs may be incurred for certifying copies of your driver’s license and obtaining passport-sized photographs.

Get your IDP photos quickly with Smartphone iD

When applying for your South African International Driving Permit, you’ll need two identical passport-sized photographs. Smartphone iD makes it simple and affordable to get high-quality, compliant photos right from your smartphone. Just download the Smartphone iD app and take your photo following our clear guidelines.

Subsequently, our team of biometric experts and advanced AI system will ensure your photo meets the official requirements. You’ll then receive a digital copy to print or a set of physical prints delivered directly to your doorstep. This entire process will only take a couple of minutes of your time!

Where to collect your IDP

You have two options for receiving your International Driving Permit once it has been processed by the Automobile Association:

In-person collection: You can collect your IDP at any AA branch nationwide. Be sure to bring your original driver’s license and proof of identity for verification purposes.
Mail delivery: If you prefer, you can request to have your IDP mailed to your provided address. The AA will send your permit via registered mail, and you’ll need to sign for the package upon receipt.

The choice between in-person collection and mail delivery depends on your personal preference. If you need your IDP urgently, in-person collection may be the faster option. However, if you live far from an AA branch, mail delivery can save you the trip.

Sources

https://aa.co.za/travel/international-driving-permit

https://internationaldrivingpermit.org/country/south-africa/

How to get your international driver’s license in South Africa