Cross-border route
Eswatini South Africa
Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Eswatini into South Africa, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. South Africa expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1968 Vienna format. Both countries drive on the left, so there is no change of driving side at the border. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromEswatini
ToSouth Africa
IDP in South AfricaRequired
Accepted format1968 Vienna
Driving sideleft (no change)
Currency in South AfricaZAR
Eswatini → South Africa
Crossing the border
Eswatini and South Africa share a land border you can cross by car. Keep your passport, national driving licence and International Driving Permit together, and check opening hours and any toll or vignette requirements before you travel.
Driving rules in South Africa
- Drive on the left.
- Toll roads (e-tolls) on major routes.
- Four-way stops are common.
- 0.05% alcohol limit, strictly enforced.
What to see when you arrive in South Africa
- Table Mountain in Cape Town
- Kruger National Park
- the Cape of Good Hope
- the Garden Route
- the Blyde River Canyon
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Eswatini to South Africa?
Yes — South Africa requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. South Africa recognises the 1968 Vienna format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Eswatini and South Africa?
No. Both Eswatini and South Africa drive on the left.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
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