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World Driving Permit

🇧🇼 Do you need an IDP to drive in Botswana?

IDP recommended· the 1949 Geneva Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Key facts

IDP validity
1 year from issue
Driving side
Left-hand

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Botswana, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Botswana follows the 1949 Geneva Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required.

Driving in Botswana: the rule explained

Botswana accepts a valid foreign driving licence for short tourist stays (commonly up to 90 days) provided it is in English; an IDP is not strictly required by law for an English-language licence. If the licence is not in English a translation or IDP is needed. An IDP is widely recommended and frequently demanded in practice.

Exemption: Holders of an English-language national licence are generally not required to obtain an IDP for short visits.

Renting a car in Botswana

Most rental agencies request an IDP alongside the home licence, particularly to release 4x4 vehicles used for game reserves and off-road areas.

Motorcycles & scooters: Carry the correct licence category for motorcycles; the same documentation expectations apply.

What to carry when driving in Botswana

  • 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
  • English translation if licence is not in English
  • Vehicle/cross-border permits if driving into neighbouring countries
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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.

Botswana: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Botswana?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Botswana, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Botswana follows the 1949 Geneva Convention. Carry it alongside your original national licence. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Botswana accepts a valid foreign driving licence for short tourist stays (commonly up to 90 days) provided it is in English; an IDP is not strictly required by law for an English-language licence. If the licence is not in English a translation or IDP is needed. An IDP is widely recommended and frequently demanded in practice.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Botswana?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Botswana read your licence, but where Botswana requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Botswana?
Most rental agencies request an IDP alongside the home licence, particularly to release 4x4 vehicles used for game reserves and off-road areas.
Which IDP convention does Botswana use?
Botswana 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.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in Botswana?
Because Botswana follows the 1949 Geneva Convention, an IDP is valid for one year from its date of issue. The permit is only valid alongside your original national licence, and it cannot be renewed — you apply for a new one from your home country's authorised issuer when it lapses.

Official sources

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

Driving to Botswana from your country

Requirements for other countries