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World Driving Permit

🇧🇳 Do you need an IDP to drive in Brunei?

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

Key facts

IDP validity
1 year from issue

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Brunei, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Brunei 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 Brunei: the rule explained

Tourists may drive in Brunei for up to 90 days on a foreign licence together with an IDP. An IDP is strongly recommended and effectively required where the licence is not printed in English or Malay. Traffic drives on the left.

Renting a car in Brunei

Major operators (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) generally require both the national licence and an IDP; minimum rental age is typically 21.

Motorcycles & scooters: An IDP with the motorcycle category endorsed is expected for two-wheelers.

What to carry when driving in Brunei

  • 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 if licence not in English or Malay
  • Confirm left-hand-traffic familiarity
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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.

Brunei: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Brunei?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Brunei, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Brunei 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. Tourists may drive in Brunei for up to 90 days on a foreign licence together with an IDP. An IDP is strongly recommended and effectively required where the licence is not printed in English or Malay. Traffic drives on the left.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Brunei?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Brunei read your licence, but where Brunei 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 Brunei?
Major operators (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) generally require both the national licence and an IDP; minimum rental age is typically 21.
Which IDP convention does Brunei use?
Brunei 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 Brunei?
Because Brunei 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 Brunei from your country

Requirements for other countries