How to Get an IDP in South Africa: Step-by-Step 2026 Guide
Planning to drive overseas from South Africa? An International Driving Permit (IDP) is the document that makes it possible — legally and confidently — in over 150 countries. This guide tells you exactly who qualifies, what documents you need, where to apply, what it costs, and what to expect when collecting your IDP.
Apply quickly and conveniently online — visit e-idpa.com/south-africa-permit/ to start your IDP application today.
What Is an International Driving Permit?
An international driving permit IDP is an official multilingual translation of your national driving license. Issued under the UN Conventions on Road Traffic (1949 and 1968), it is recognised in more than 150 countries as a valid travel document. It contains your name, photo, and driver details printed in eight official UN languages — English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, German, and Italian.
The IDP is not a standalone document. You must always carry it together with your valid South African driving licence at all times when driving abroad. One without the other is not legally sufficient.
Who Needs an IDP in South Africa?
You need to obtain an IDP if you hold a valid South African driver’s licence and plan to drive in a country that does not directly recognise south african driver’s licences, or where car rental companies require one as standard practice.
Important exceptions: The Automobile Association of South Africa (AASA) cannot issue IDPs to citizens of Botswana, Lesotho, or Swaziland holding licenses from those countries. However, Namibian citizens holding a valid Namibian license are eligible to obtain an IDP through AASA.
IDP Eligibility Requirements
- Must be at least 18 سنة of age
- Must hold a valid driver’s licence issued in South Africa — learner’s licences are not accepted
- Your driving licence must not be expired, suspended, or revoked
- You must apply from within South Africa — an IDP must be issued in the same country where your domestic licence was issued
Documents Required for Your IDP Application
| Document | Details |
| Valid South African Driving Licence | Front and back copy required. Check the expiry date before applying. |
| South African ID or Valid Passport | Original for in-person submission; scanned copy for online applications. |
| Passport Size Photograph | One original passport size photograph per IDP type. Scanned, photocopied, or digital-only photos are not accepted. Colour or black-and-white prints are both acceptable. |
| Completed Application Form | Available on the AA website or at any AA-accredited outlet. Use the address shown on your domestic driving licence. |
Photo rule: Your passport photo must be an original printed photograph. Selected AA stores can take passport photos on-site — confirm with your chosen store before visiting when collecting your IDP.
How to Get an IDP in South Africa: Two Methods
Method 1 — Apply Online
Step 1: Go to the AA South Africa website and complete the online application form with your personal and licence details.
Step 2: Upload your valid South African driving license (both sides), your ID or passport, and your original passport photo.
Step 3: Select your preferred AA outlet for collection and pay the application fee online.
Step 4: You will receive an email confirmation with your chosen store’s address and contact details. Bring this email as proof of order when you collect.
Step 5: Visit the selected store with all your original documents. Your IDP application will be processed in 10 to 30 minutes and you leave with your permit.
Method 2 — Apply In-Store (Walk-In)
Visit any AA Travel Experience outlet or a VFS Global Application Centre in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, or Pretoria with your original documents. Your IDP is processed on the spot — typically within 10 to 30 minutes. No prior appointment is needed at most branches.
To confirm your nearest branch, call the AA on 0861 000 234 (option 5, then option 1), available Monday to Friday, 08:00–17:00.Prefer a fully digital process? e-idpa.com offers online IDP applications with soft-copy delivery within 30 minutes and express worldwide shipping for hard copies — no queuing required.
IDP Validity
| IDP Convention | Maximum Validity | Key Rule |
| 1949 Convention | 1 year from date of issue | Validity can never exceed the validity of your domestic driving licence |
| 1968 Convention | Up to 3 years from date of issue |
Your IDP may be reissued on expiry (with a new photograph). Note that some countries only recognise an IDP for the duration of your tourist visa — always confirm destination-specific requirements before you travel.
Why Car Rental Companies Require an IDP
Even in countries where government law does not mandate an IDP, most motor vehicle rental companies will ask to see one before releasing a vehicle. The IDP certifies which categories of motor vehicle you are licensed to operate — a critical check for rental firms. Driving without a valid IDP where one is required by your rental agreement will likely void your insurance cover, leaving you personally liable for any accident costs. It can also result in fines and vehicle impoundment under local road traffic laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an IDP with a learner’s licence?
No. IDPs can only be issued to holders of a full, valid driver’s license. Learner driver license holders are not eligible.
Which address do I use on the IDP application form?
Use the address shown on your domestic driving license.
Can I use a digital or photocopied photograph?
No. Only original printed passport size photographs are accepted. Photocopies, scans, and digital-only images are not acceptable.
I have been abroad for over a year — can I still get an IDP in South Africa?
Yes, as long as you still hold a valid South African domestic driving licence. Your IDP must be applied for and issued from within South Africa.