🇳🇬 Do you need an IDP to drive in Nigeria?

IDP recommended· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 17 Jun 2026

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Nigeria, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence.

Driving in Nigeria: the rule explained

Nigeria is a 1968 Vienna Convention country. UK FCDO advises that a visitor can drive on a foreign (English-language) licence for up to 3 months and should carry a 1968 IDP. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) operates a foreign-licence reciprocity process, and stays beyond a year require a Nigerian licence.

Renting a car in Nigeria

Short-term visitors usually rely on a chauffeured hire or drive on a foreign licence plus 1968 IDP; self-drive rental firms expect the IDP to accompany the home licence.

Motorcycles & scooters: The same foreign-licence-plus-IDP rule applies to motorcycles for the relevant category.

What to carry when driving in Nigeria

Original driving license (physical card)
Passport with valid visa/entry stamp
Translation companion or certified translation of your license
Proof of insurance covering the destination
Carry a 1968 IDP with your home licence

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Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Nigeria: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Nigeria?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Nigeria, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. Nigeria is a 1968 Vienna Convention country. UK FCDO advises that a visitor can drive on a foreign (English-language) licence for up to 3 months and should carry a 1968 IDP. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) operates a foreign-licence reciprocity process, and stays beyond a year require a Nigerian licence.

Is a translated driving licence accepted in Nigeria?

A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Nigeria read your licence, but it does not replace an IDP where one is legally required. Always carry your original national licence with it.

What do I need to rent a car in Nigeria?

Short-term visitors usually rely on a chauffeured hire or drive on a foreign licence plus 1968 IDP; self-drive rental firms expect the IDP to accompany the home licence.

Which IDP convention does Nigeria use?

Nigeria recognises IDPs issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Make sure your IDP is issued by your own country's authorised issuer under the matching convention.

Official sources

Need a real, government-recognised IDP? See how to get an IDP from an authorised issuer.

Requirements vary by country. Carry your translation together with your original driving licence and passport; some countries require an official IDP issued by an authorised body in your country of licence. Information provided is general guidance. Always check local regulations for your destination.