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World Driving Permit

🇹🇬 Do you need an IDP to drive in Togo?

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

Short answer

Yes — to drive in Togo 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 Togo: the rule explained

Togo is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention and recognises the 1949-format IDP. Because French is the official language, an IDP is needed where the licence is not in French, and rental firms typically require it. Togo drives on the right.

Renting a car in Togo

Rental companies generally ask for both the national licence and an IDP; carry your passport.

Motorcycles & scooters: An IDP with the correct category is advisable for any motorcycle (zemidjan-style) hire.

What to carry when driving in Togo

  • 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 passport while driving
  • French-format documents help at checks

Check your exact trip

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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.

Togo: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Togo?
Yes — to drive in Togo 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. Togo is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention and recognises the 1949-format IDP. Because French is the official language, an IDP is needed where the licence is not in French, and rental firms typically require it. Togo drives on the right.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Togo?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Togo 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 Togo?
Rental companies generally ask for both the national licence and an IDP; carry your passport.
Which IDP convention does Togo use?
Togo 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