How do I get an international driver’s license in South Africa?

To obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in South Africa, you can follow these steps:

  1. Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. To apply for an IDP, you must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid South African driver’s license.
  2. Automobile Association of South Africa (AASA): Visit a local office of the Automobile Association of South Africa (AASA). The AASA is the authorized issuer of IDPs in South Africa. You can find the nearest AASA office by visiting their website or contacting their customer service.
  3. Required Documents: Prepare the necessary documents. You will typically need the following:
    • Valid South African driver’s license
    • Two recent passport-sized photographs
    • Proof of identity (e.g., valid passport or ID card)
    • Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or bank statement)
  4. Application Process: At the AASA office, complete an application form for the International Driving Permit. You can obtain the form at the office or sometimes download it from their website in advance. Fill in all the required information accurately.
  5. Payment: Pay the required fee. The AASA will inform you about the applicable fee for obtaining an IDP. Payment methods may vary depending on the specific AASA office, so it’s advisable to inquire about accepted payment options beforehand.
  6. Processing Time: Wait for the processing of your IDP. The AASA will process your application and issue the International Driving Permit accordingly. The processing time may vary, so it’s recommended to inquire about the estimated timeframe.
  7. Validity: Once issued, the International Driving Permit is typically valid for one year from the date of issue or until the expiration of your South African driver’s license, whichever comes first.

Remember, an International Driving Permit is not a standalone document and must be accompanied by your valid South African driver’s license when driving abroad. Additionally, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the driving regulations and requirements of the country you plan to visit, as some may have specific rules regarding the use of IDPs.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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