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Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport

If you're looking for car rental in Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport, look no further. We offer low CO2 vehicles that are at the cutting edge of environmental technology, with a choice of hire vehicles right across the range, from small city cars to luxury limousines all of which give our customers the opportunity to reduce their CO2 emissions.

Tips for renting a car in Johannesburg

Before you rent
Choose wisely. In 2019 we introduced our multi-product system which helps you choose a car based on your needs and easily see the final price. Car rental insurance can be tricky to navigate and often isn't what you expect, by booking with us direct you'll receive the correct insurance for your rental.

When you collect your vehicle
Plan ahead. We recommend planning your route before you leave, especially when renting a car at an airport. Are you sure where you're meeting your chaperone or where the rental desk is? Your confirmation email will have the contact information for the location, so we suggest saving the number in your phone ahead of time.

Have the correct documents ready. We try and keep the check in process as painless as possible but we do need to process certain information for legal reasons so having these ready ahead of time can help speed up the process. Make sure you have your booking details ready, along with your driving licence, passport and valid credit card.

Complete a vehicle check. It's essential when you are taken to your car you complete a Vehicle Condition Report (VCR) and note any existing damage, paying particular attention to the five damage hotspots. If you don't report this, you may be liable for these damages when you return the vehicle. We don't want you to get caught out, so we've put together a handy vehicle inspection video to help you check everything thoroughly.

While you rent
Take care. Unfortunately you may be liable for any damage caused to a vehicle in your care, and this will vary depending on the product you choose. A large proportion of damages to any car can be dings you pick up in car parks, so be mindful when space is limited and park further away and walk a little further to your destination.

When you return your vehicle
Complete a vehicle check. It's time to carry out a VCR again and even more essential to fully log any damage, no matter how small, to ensure you are fully covered and we can process your return effectively. Be sure to check the vehicle as before, paying special attention to the five damage hotspots.

Green Motion Car Rental South Africa Johannesburg O R Tambo International Airport 1440x400

Why choose Green Motion for car rental?

Our pricing is transparent

With Green Motion, you always easily see the total final price. Car rental insurance can sometimes be difficult to understand - by booking with us, you always get the right insurance easily.

Get your car with ease

Our car rental points are located within easy distances from central locations - near airports and train stations, as well as in the heart of cities.

We are eco-friendly

We strive to minimize our environmental impact. We invest in, among other things, biodegradable chemicals and less water-consuming methods to clean our cars, such as steam cleaning.

We are always happy to help

You can reach us by phone from 9 am to 5 pm and at other times by email, [email protected].

Green Motion Car Rental South Africa Johannesburg O R Tambo International Airport 1440x400

Good to know about car rental in Johannesburg, South Africa

Once you have landed in Johannesburg and picked up your rental car from the designated office at O.R. Tambo International Airport, we wish you a safe and delightful journey.

For those navigating Johannesburg's roads for the first time, take a moment to get acquainted with the vehicle, understand South Africa's traffic regulations, and plan your routes.

In South Africa, driving is on the left-hand side. A valid driving license from your home country is required, and depending on your country of origin, you may also need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Driving conditions in Johannesburg can be challenging due to a variety of factors. The city is known for its heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Roads are generally well-maintained in urban areas, but can be less so in rural zones. Additionally, drivers might encounter unpredictable elements such as pedestrians and cyclists, which requires vigilance.

Safety is another important consideration when driving in Johannesburg and broader South Africa. Rural roads can be hazardous, and there is a significant presence of wildlife, which can pose risks, particularly around game reserves. Drivers need to be cautious of potential roadside crime and should always be aware of their surroundings. It’s advisable to avoid driving at night in areas that are not well-lit or where wildlife crossings are common.

The speed limits in South Africa are generally 60 km/h in urban areas, 100 km/h on secondary roads, and 120 km/h on highways, subject to change based on road conditions and signage.

The city, being a major urban and economic hub, has a well-distributed network of fuel stations, including major brands that operate 24 hours a day. Additionally, these stations often offer services beyond just fuel, such as car washes, quick marts, and sometimes even restaurants, providing added convenience for travelers and residents alike.

If you need help while in Johannesburg, don't hesitate to contact our office. In an emergency, the national emergency number is 10111.

Useful Information

Where to collect your car

You can collect your car from Rental Car Park East

Side of road

Drive on the left side of the road in Malta

Nearest Petrol Station

If you drive down Vjal L-Avjazzjoni and take a left at the roundabout, there will be a petrol station on your left

Nearest train station

The nearest train station at O.R. Tambo International Airport is directly connected to the Gautrain network, which provides rapid rail service to various key locations including Johannesburg's city center.

Nearest bus station

While there isn't a dedicated bus station right at the airport, various bus services, including city buses and long-distance coaches, operate routes that connect the airport with Johannesburg's city center and other destinations around Gauteng province.

Local currency

Euro (€)

Average temperatures

13°C (55°F) - 27°C (81°F)

FAQ car rental in Johannesburg, South Africa

How much does it cost to rent a car in Johannesburg, South Africa?

Economy cars can be rented from about $12 per day, while more spacious or luxury vehicles, like full-size SUVs, may cost significantly more, around $104 per day. Please check our booking system for more accurate prices!

Do I need a car in Johannesburg?

Yes, we highly recommend renting a car! Public transportation is often crowded and unreliable, and it is more cost-efficient to self-drive than take tours. Renting a car is especially worthwhile in South Africa, where public transport is limited in big cities and non-existent in rural areas.

Can I drive a rented car from Johannesburg to other parts of South Africa?

Yes, you can drive across South Africa, but please let us know your travel plans before-hand. Be aware of varying road conditions, safetiness and driving practices.

Are there any specific driving rules I should be aware of in South Africa?

Yes, here's some! Stop signs mean complete stop, and the first vehicle to stop at a four-way stop is the first to move. The wearing of seat belts is mandatory for all occupants of the vehicle, and failure to wear a seatbelt is subject to fines. South Africa has strict drink-driving laws, with a maximum allowable alcohol blood content of 0.05%.

Is it safe to drive in South Africa as a tourist?

Driving in South Africa as a tourist is generally considered safe, but it requires awareness and caution due to various challenges. It's advisable to use major highways, avoid driving at night, and always lock doors and close windows while driving. It's common to find informal street vendors approaching cars at traffic lights or stop signs to sell goods or beg. It’s advised to keep your doors locked and windows up in urban areas to avoid potential theft. Drink driving is another significant issue, despite legal limits.