Driving in South Africa: licence, roads and tolls

Good long-distance roads with toll plazas, and safety rules that shape how you drive rather than how fast.

• The N1, N3 and N4 have toll plazas taking cash and cards. The Gauteng e-toll gantries were switched off in 2024 and no longer charge.
• Fuel is served by an attendant - there is no self-service - and a small cash tip is customary. Many stations take cards, but carry some cash.
• Keep doors locked and windows up in city traffic, and do not stop for anyone flagging you down between towns. Smash-and-grab at traffic lights is the common crime.
• The alcohol limit is 0.05 % and roadblocks are frequent, particularly at holidays.
• Traffic drives on the left, minibus taxis stop without warning in the left lane, and rural roads have pedestrians and livestock on them after dark.