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World Driving Permit

🇧🇴 Do you need an IDP to drive in Bolivia?

IDP required· 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Short answer

Yes — to drive in Bolivia you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. The IDP is a recognised translation of your licence; it never replaces the licence itself.

Driving in Bolivia: the rule explained

The UK FCDO states you need both a 1949 International Driving Permit and your national driving licence in the car to drive in Bolivia. The IDP cannot be bought outside the UK, so obtain it before travel. Road travel can be dangerous due to poor road conditions, low driving standards and occasional fuel shortages.

Renting a car in Bolivia

Carry your national licence plus the 1949 IDP for the rental desk; factor fuel shortages and altitude into trip planning.

Motorcycles & scooters: Bolivia drives on the right; carry the relevant motorcycle category plus the 1949 IDP.

What to carry when driving in Bolivia

  • 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
  • 1949 IDP obtained before travel
  • Plan for possible fuel shortages on long routes

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.

Bolivia: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Bolivia?
Yes — to drive in Bolivia you generally need an International Driving Permit (IDP), carried together with your original national driving licence. The IDP is a recognised translation of your licence; it never replaces the licence itself. The UK FCDO states you need both a 1949 International Driving Permit and your national driving licence in the car to drive in Bolivia. The IDP cannot be bought outside the UK, so obtain it before travel. Road travel can be dangerous due to poor road conditions, low driving standards and occasional fuel shortages.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Bolivia?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Bolivia 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 Bolivia?
Carry your national licence plus the 1949 IDP for the rental desk; factor fuel shortages and altitude into trip planning.
Which IDP convention does Bolivia use?
Bolivia recognises IDPs issued under the 1949 Geneva 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