International Drivers License in South Africa

Question

Please advise what the road act say about a south african citizen with an international drivers license. Going back and for in countries every 3 months. What license do you need to drive in south africa? Please give me the act details, and explain.

Answer

If the international driving licence is valid, is in English or has an official translation and has a photograph of the holder attached to it then it can be used to drive in South Africa. Please note that if the person is resuming  permanent residence then the licence must be exchanged for a South African driving licence within 1 year of resuming permanent residence.

Also note that if the licence was obtained while the person was on holiday or just visiting in the foreign country then the licence cannot be exchanged. If the person wishes to drive a vehicle that requires a professional driving permit (PrDP) then they need to apply for a PrDP.