South African cities are spread out and public transport is limited, so most Chinese families and business owners rely on a car. Sort out your licence first, then get used to driving on the left. If you do not drive, ride-hailing apps and the Gautrain cover a lot of everyday trips.
Start here
- Can you drive on a Chinese licence? Translations, international permits and converting your licence as a permanent resident.
- Getting around South Africa: ride-hailing, the Gautrain, intercity buses and domestic flights.
Key things to know
- Drive on the left. Traffic keeps left and the driver sits on the right, the opposite of China, so take extra care at turns and roundabouts at first.
- General speed limits. 60 km/h in towns, 100 km/h on other public roads and 120 km/h on freeways, unless signs say otherwise.
- A Chinese licence needs an English translation. A foreign licence must be valid and carry your photo and signature; if it is not in an official South African language you need a translation from a competent authority. Car hire companies may ask for more, so check before you collect the car.
- Only permanent residents can convert. Once you get permanent residence, you must convert your foreign licence to a South African one within a year, or it is no longer valid here.
- The Gautrain links three key points. It connects Johannesburg, Pretoria and O.R. Tambo International Airport, one of the few fast public transport options in Gauteng.
Related sections
For safety on the road, see Safety & security. For weekend road trips to the national parks, see Travel & leisure.
