Skip to content
World Driving Permit

🇨🇲 Do you need an IDP to drive in Cameroon?

IDP recommended· 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Short answer

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

Driving in Cameroon: the rule explained

Cameroonian law lets visitors drive on their home licence for up to 3 months, after which a Cameroonian licence is needed. An IDP is not strictly mandated by law but is widely expected by rental firms and useful at checkpoints, especially as Cameroon is francophone. Cameroon is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention.

Renting a car in Cameroon

Rental companies in Douala, Yaoundé and Garoua generally require both a national licence and an IDP; minimum rental age is often 25.

Motorcycles & scooters: Commercial motorcycle taxis are common; private riders need the appropriate licence category.

What to carry when driving in Cameroon

  • 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
  • IDP plus national licence (French translation helps)
  • Carry ID and vehicle papers for frequent checkpoints

Check your exact trip

Get a tailored answer for your licence country, dates and vehicle.

Translation companion

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

Cameroon: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Cameroon?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Cameroon, even where it is not always strictly enforced. Carry it alongside your original national licence. Cameroonian law lets visitors drive on their home licence for up to 3 months, after which a Cameroonian licence is needed. An IDP is not strictly mandated by law but is widely expected by rental firms and useful at checkpoints, especially as Cameroon is francophone. Cameroon is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Cameroon?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Cameroon 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 Cameroon?
Rental companies in Douala, Yaoundé and Garoua generally require both a national licence and an IDP; minimum rental age is often 25.
Which IDP convention does Cameroon use?
Cameroon 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 for other countries