Frequently Asked Questions | FAQ's
1. What do I need to rent a car in South Africa?
Answer: To rent a car in South Africa, you typically need a valid driver's license from your home country accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English, a credit card to hold a deposit, and to be over the age of 18 (though many rental agencies have a minimum age of 23 and age-related surcharges for drivers under 25).
2. Is it necessary to have insurance when renting a car in South Africa?
Answer: Yes, it is highly recommended to have insurance when renting a car. Most car rental agencies offer various insurance options like collision damage waivers (CDW), theft protection (TP), and third-party liability, which can be purchased at the rental desk or arranged in advance.
3. Can I rent a car with a debit card in South Africa?
Answer: Renting a car with a debit card is possible with some rental agencies, but the acceptance criteria can be stricter. You may be required to provide additional proof of ID, travel itinerary, and return tickets, plus hold a higher deposit on the card. Credit cards are generally preferred for their fraud protection and ease of use.
4. Are international drivers allowed to rent a car in South Africa?
Answer: Yes, international drivers are allowed to rent cars in South Africa as long as they hold a valid driver's license from their home country and an IDP if necessary. However, some rental agencies might have restrictions or additional requirements for international renters.
5. How is the cost of renting a car in South Africa determined?
Answer: The cost of renting a car in South Africa is determined based on several factors, including the type of car, the rental period, the renter's age, additional insurance and equipment, and the pick-up and drop-off locations. Seasonal demand can also affect pricing.
6. Are there restrictions on where I can drive a rental car in South Africa?
Answer: Yes, there may be restrictions depending on the rental agency's policies. Some rental cars may not be allowed to be driven on unpaved roads, outside of certain geographical areas, or into neighboring countries without special permission and cross-border fees.
7. What should I do if I get into an accident with my rental car?
Answer: If you get into an accident, make sure everyone is safe, and then contact the South African police to file a report. You should also notify the rental agency immediately to inform them of the accident and seek their instruction on what steps to take next regarding insurance and vehicle replacement.
8. Is it possible to rent a car for one-way trips in South Africa?
Answer: Many car rental companies in South Africa offer the option of one-way rentals where you can pick up the car in one location and drop it off in another. However, this service may come at an additional fee depending on the drop-off location.
9. Can I add an additional driver to my car rental contract?
Answer: Yes, you can typically add an additional driver to your rental contract. The additional driver must meet the same requirements as the primary renter, be present at the time of rental to provide their driver's license, and there may be an additional fee for each additional driver.
10. What is the fuel policy for car rentals in South Africa?
Answer: The general policy for fuel with rental cars in South Africa is 'full-to-full', meaning you receive the car with a full tank and are expected to return it full. Failure to do so may result in refueling charges. Other options like 'pre-purchase' might be available, where you purchase a full tank of fuel at the beginning of your rental and are allowed to return the car with any amount of fuel. Make sure to clarify the fuel policy at the time of rental.
