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World Driving Permit

🇲🇿 Do you need an IDP to drive in Mozambique?

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 Mozambique, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Mozambique 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 Mozambique: the rule explained

Mozambique drives on the LEFT. The UK FCDO confirms a photocard licence can be used for up to 90 days, after which an IDP or Mozambican licence is required. A 1949 Geneva-format IDP / certified translation is strongly advised because Portuguese-language police checkpoints are frequent and non-Portuguese licences are hard to verify.

Exemption: Photocard/English licences accepted for up to 90 days; IDP required thereafter.

Renting a car in Mozambique

Major firms (Europcar, Hertz, Avis) operate; they often want an IDP alongside the original licence, plus third-party insurance bought at the border.

Motorcycles & scooters: A motorcycle-category licence and helmet are required for motorbikes.

What to carry when driving in Mozambique

  • 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 2 reflective triangles and a hi-vis vest
  • Third-party insurance from border
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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.

Mozambique: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Mozambique?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Mozambique, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Mozambique 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. Mozambique drives on the LEFT. The UK FCDO confirms a photocard licence can be used for up to 90 days, after which an IDP or Mozambican licence is required. A 1949 Geneva-format IDP / certified translation is strongly advised because Portuguese-language police checkpoints are frequent and non-Portuguese licences are hard to verify.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Mozambique?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Mozambique read your licence, but where Mozambique 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 Mozambique?
Major firms (Europcar, Hertz, Avis) operate; they often want an IDP alongside the original licence, plus third-party insurance bought at the border.
Which IDP convention does Mozambique use?
Mozambique 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 Mozambique?
Because Mozambique 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 Mozambique from your country

Requirements for other countries