OvertakingSouth Africa
Traffic rules
South Africa
1. Overtaking
Overtaking is the act of passing another road user travelling in the same direction. It normally involves moving to another position or lane, passing the slower road user and returning to the appropriate position when it is safe.
Before overtaking, a driver should make sure there is sufficient visibility and space, check mirrors and blind spots, signal when required and ensure that no other road user is already overtaking. The manoeuvre must be completed without exceeding the speed limit or endangering other road users.
On which side do drivers normally overtake in South Africa?
As traffic normally keeps left, drivers ordinarily overtake on the right. This is the general rule, not permission to pass wherever a lane is available; exceptions and restrictions depend on the local law.
🔗 openbylaws.org.za • Cape Town Traffic Amendment By-law2026 — Gazette publication29 July2026
When should you avoid overtaking in South Africa?
Do not begin if approaching traffic, restricted visibility, road markings, an intersection, a crossing or another road user makes the manoeuvre unsafe or unlawful. Check behind and ahead, allow enough space and never exceed the speed limit to complete the pass.
🔗 openbylaws.org.za • Cape Town Traffic Amendment By-law2026 — Gazette publication29 July2026
What extra care is needed when overtaking slower road users in South Africa?
Leave sufficient lateral clearance and pass only when safe and lawful in South Africa. Cape Town’s Traffic By-law specifically requires at least 1 metre when a motor vehicle passes a bicycle to the right, subject to its passing provisions, and returning left only when safely clear. Check the applicable rule elsewhere; this city provision must not be described as a verified uniform national distance.
🔗 openbylaws.org.za • Cape Town Traffic Amendment By-law2026 — Gazette publication29 July2026
