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What do you need to rent a car at First Car Rental?

To rent a car at First Car Rental is quick and easy. Book now! All you need is a valid driver's licence (or passport if you're a tourist) and a credit card in your name. No debit cards.

A valid driver's licence

You must be 23 or older with a valid driver's licence that you've held for two years or more. What if I'm younger than 23? A Young driver surcharge may apply but your licence must be valid for a minimum of three years.

Visiting South Africa? Simply bring your driver's licence, and your passport. Do note that non-English licences must come with an English translation in the form of an international driver's permit.


First Car Rental Car Hire Requirements

Payment by credit card. No debit cards

First Car Rental accepts all major credit cards.

The credit card holder must also be the renter of the vehicle. Make sure to present the same credit card you made your online booking with at the First Car Rental branch.

If you're a visitor to South Africa, please ensure your bank has authorised your credit card for the period you'll be visiting.

Compulsory payment at start of rental

Do I pay the full rental amount at the start of the rental? Yes, but the full amount is not taken off your credit card. Part of the amount is only an authorisation that is kept as a deposit (and is refundable at the end of your rental period if the vehicle is returned in the same condition as when it went out on rent).

The full payment due at the start of your rental will include additional charges you have selected such as baby seats, one-way fees, cross-border fees, and so on. For a detailed breakdown of First Car Rental's "Payment and Authorisation" policy, please visit the FAQ section.

Deposits at start of rental

You will pay a Renter's Responsibility deposit toward any possible loss or damage to the vehicle. First Car Rental also requires a fuel and e-tolls deposit. To find out how the deposit refund works, visit the FAQ section.

Additional information

Find everything you need to know about traffic fines, what to do in the event of an accident or breakdown, rental period extensions, border-crossing fees, and any other relevant information in our FAQ section.


First in Car Hire. First in Service.