Self-Drive Car Rental in Johannesburg, United States

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Driving in Johannesburg: What to expect on the road

Documents you'll need

You’ll need your driving licence, passport and a credit card to rent a car in Johannesburg.

Most travellers can use their regular licence. If it isn’t in English, you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Rental companies also check that your identification matches your booking details.

Navigating city driving

Johannesburg uses wide highways and busy junctions.

Motorways link suburbs and business areas, though traffic is heavy at peak times. Navigation apps help you avoid slow routes, construction zones and unfamiliar areas when planning longer trips.

Tolls, emissions zones and charges

Some major routes around Johannesburg use toll roads.

Tolls are clearly signed and paid electronically or at booths. There are no emissions zones. Always follow posted limits and watch for speed cameras on main routes.

Parking your car in Johannesburg

Parking is easiest in secure car parks.

Street parking is less common in busy areas, and many drivers prefer guarded parking at malls. Always lock your car, avoid leaving valuables visible and follow local safety advice.

Finding fuel or charging points

Fuel stations are easy to find on main roads.

Many petrol stations include small shops, and EV charging stations in Johannesburg are mainly at malls and business parks. Top up regularly if you’re driving longer distances outside the city.

Local driving style and tips

Drivers can be assertive on multi-lane roads.

Keep left unless overtaking, pass on the right and approach four-way stops with patience. Keep windows closed in slow traffic and stay alert at junctions and traffic lights.

Find Johannesburg car hire deals

How to book the best car rental deals in Johannesburg

We’re frequently named as the most trusted travel search site out there. We scan hundreds of trusted travel providers and put it all in one place, allowing you to instantly compare car hire rates and then book with no fees. Here's how to get the most out of your Johannesburg car rental search.

Book now, cancel later

We clearly highlight car and van hire options in Johannesburg that have free cancellation. So you can bag the best deal with total flexibility to change your plans if you need to.

Rent a car in Johannesburg for a whole month

Want to hire a car for almost a month? Often, car rental companies in Johannesburg avoid costly admin in between pick-ups by hiring out cars for longer periods. So see if monthly car hire is cheaper than the three weeks you need it for by selecting 30 days.

Compare fuel policies

To save money on topping up the tank as you take off in Johannesburg, look out for deals with a 'full to full' fuel policy, as opposed to a 'half-full to full' one.

Skip the queues

We call out keyless pick-up when you search for cars with us. No keys to pick up, means no queues. Just turn up at your preferred Johannesburg car hire location, hop in and hit the road.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get the best value car hire in Johannesburg?

If you're looking for freedom to explore Johannesburg, choose a car with unlimited mileage, or look for car hire deals with a ’full to full' fuel policy as opposed to a 'half-full to full' one.

We also clearly highlight car and van hire options in Johannesburg that have free cancellation.

Can I book a one-way car hire in Johannesburg?

Yes – you can easily find car hire companies that allow you to pick up your car in one place, and then drop it off in another. Just select ‘Return car to a different location’ when you search with us.

Is it worth renting a car in Johannesburg?

Public transport can only get you so far, and could be tricky to navigate with children or luggage. With your own set of wheels, you can go wherever you want, whenever you want, for as long as you want. And you'll be able to discover more outside of Johannesburg.

Can under 25s hire cars in Johannesburg?

Most places – Johannesburg included – allow under 25s to rent a car as long as they provide a valid driver's license and the correct documentation. It may cost slightly more due to a higher insurance excess for young drivers.