To hire a rental car, you’ll usually need a valid driver’s licence, ID or passport, and a payment card in the main driver’s name. Requirements may differ by rental supplier, so always check your booking terms before pick-up. To collect a rental car, bring your driving licence, passport, the credit card used for booking, and your booking confirmation. Some suppliers also ask for a second form of ID, so it is worth double-checking your specific supplier’s requirements beforehand.

Many Travelstart car hire options let you book online and pay at pick-up. Payment rules depend on the rental supplier and car selected, so check the terms before confirming.

Some car hire options include free cancellation, but cancellation rules vary by supplier, vehicle and booking type. Check the cancellation policy before you book so future-you does not send angry emails. Basic cover is usually included, but it comes with an excess you are liable for. Full cover that reduces or removes the excess is available as an add-on at checkout. Some rental cars include unlimited mileage, while others may have daily limits. Check the vehicle details and supplier terms before booking, especially if your road trip has main-character distance.

Yes. You can compare airport car hire options in major South African cities, including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, George, Gqeberha and East London.

The minimum age is usually 21, though some suppliers require drivers under 25 to pay a young driver surcharge. Check the age listed on your specific rental before you book, it varies by brand.

Visitors can drive in South Africa on a valid foreign licence for up to 12 months, provided it is printed in English or accompanied by a certified translation. An International Driving Permit is recommended if your licence is not in English.

Yes, nearly every supplier requires a credit card in the main driver’s name for the security deposit. Debit cards are rarely accepted for this, so check before you arrive at the counter.

The excess is the amount you are liable for if the car is damaged, even with insurance. It typically ranges from a few thousand to over R20,000 depending on the car and cover level, and you can usually reduce it with additional cover at booking.

Some suppliers allow cross-border travel into neighbouring countries like Namibia, Botswana or Lesotho, but you need written permission and often extra insurance arranged in advance. Confirm this directly with the supplier before you book if you are planning a cross-border trip.

Yes, one-way rentals are available with most suppliers, though they usually carry an additional drop-off fee. This fee varies by distance and supplier, so it is worth comparing before you commit.