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South Africa licence Botswana

Driving in Botswana with a South Africa license

IDP Recommended

An International Driving Permit is recommended (not strictly required) for South Africa licence holders driving in Botswana. Your South Africa licence is in the Roman alphabet, but an IDP removes any doubt at rental desks and roadside checks. Carry both.

Convention basisBotswana recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention. We issue the permit in that exact format.
At the rental deskAn IDP is recommended for non-English licences; 4x4 essential for the Delta.
CarryCarry BOTH your South Africa national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
Minimum age18+ to drive; rental typically 21+ with a young-driver surcharge under 25
Validity1–3 years (you choose at checkout)
FormatDigital PDF you print yourself, plus a QR-verifiable ID card — accepted alongside printed permits
Last verified June 2026Convention: 1949 Geneva
Get my IDP for Botswana Full Botswana guide

South African drivers should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their licence when driving abroad. Your International Driving Permit is the recognised multilingual translation of your existing licence, issued in the 1949 Geneva format and carried alongside your national licence.

Driving rules in Botswana

  • Drive on the left.
  • Wildlife on roads, especially at night.
  • 0.08% alcohol limit.
  • Long distances between fuel stops.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to drive in Botswana with a South Africa license?
An International Driving Permit is recommended (not strictly required) for South Africa licence holders driving in Botswana. Your South Africa licence is in the Roman alphabet, but an IDP removes any doubt at rental desks and roadside checks. Carry both.
02
What IDP format does Botswana accept?
Botswana recognises the 1949 Geneva Convention. We issue the permit in that exact format.
03
Do I still carry my South Africa license?
Carry BOTH your South Africa national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.
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