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World Driving Permit

🇧🇫 Do you need an IDP to drive in Burkina Faso?

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

Key facts

IDP validity
Up to 3 years, or until your licence expires

Short answer

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Burkina Faso, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Burkina Faso follows the 1968 Vienna 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 Burkina Faso: the rule explained

Burkina Faso is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a licence issued under that convention (or accompanied by a 1968 IDP) is accepted. Visitors without a bilateral recognition agreement should carry an IDP. Note that the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to much of the country owing to the security situation.

Renting a car in Burkina Faso

Rental firms typically require both the national licence and an IDP; self-drive is uncommon and chauffeur-driven hire is widely used.

Motorcycles & scooters: Motorcycles and mopeds are common; ensure the correct licence category and helmet use.

What to carry when driving in Burkina Faso

  • 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
  • 1968 IDP plus national licence
  • Check current FCDO/State Dept security advisory before travel
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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.

Burkina Faso: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Burkina Faso?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Burkina Faso, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Burkina Faso follows the 1968 Vienna 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. Burkina Faso is a party to the 1968 Vienna Convention, so a licence issued under that convention (or accompanied by a 1968 IDP) is accepted. Visitors without a bilateral recognition agreement should carry an IDP. Note that the FCDO advises against all but essential travel to much of the country owing to the security situation.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Burkina Faso?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Burkina Faso read your licence, but where Burkina Faso requires an IDP it must be one issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Always carry your original national licence with it.
What do I need to rent a car in Burkina Faso?
Rental firms typically require both the national licence and an IDP; self-drive is uncommon and chauffeur-driven hire is widely used.
Which IDP convention does Burkina Faso use?
Burkina Faso 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.
How long is an International Driving Permit valid in Burkina Faso?
Because Burkina Faso follows the 1968 Vienna Convention, an IDP is valid for up to three years, or until your national licence expires — whichever comes first. 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 Burkina Faso from your country

Requirements for other countries