Skip to content
World Driving Permit

🇲🇲 Do you need an IDP to drive in Myanmar (Burma)?

Depends on your licence· the 1968 Vienna Convention· Last reviewed 18 Jun 2026

Key facts

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

Short answer

It depends on the licence you hold — Myanmar accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. 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 Myanmar (Burma): the rule explained

Self-drive in Myanmar (Burma) is heavily restricted and most tourists must use a hired driver or organised tour; permit and licence requirements change at short notice. The UK FCDO advises carrying both the IDP and the home licence, and Myanmar recognises the 1968 Vienna (not the 1949 Geneva) convention, so US-issued 1949 IDPs may not be valid. Driving is on the right but most cars are right-hand drive.

Renting a car in Myanmar (Burma)

Conventional self-drive rental is largely unavailable; confirm current permit rules with the hire company, as roads may be restricted by military/opposition forces.

Motorcycles & scooters: Motorbike hire and riding by foreigners is restricted and discouraged given safety and legal risks.

What to carry when driving in Myanmar (Burma)

  • 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
  • Use a hired driver/tour
  • Confirm permit rules before travel
Print / save this checklist (PDF)

Check your exact trip

Get a tailored answer for your licence country, dates and vehicle.

Translation companion

A certified, multi-language translation of your licence to carry alongside it. It is not an IDP and does not replace one.

Myanmar (Burma): frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Myanmar?
It depends on the licence you hold — Myanmar accepts some foreign licences directly while others require an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention. Confirm the rule for your specific licence country before you travel. A certified translation of your licence smooths rental-desk and police checks, but it does not replace the IDP where one is required. Self-drive in Myanmar (Burma) is heavily restricted and most tourists must use a hired driver or organised tour; permit and licence requirements change at short notice. The UK FCDO advises carrying both the IDP and the home licence, and Myanmar recognises the 1968 Vienna (not the 1949 Geneva) convention, so US-issued 1949 IDPs may not be valid. Driving is on the right but most cars are right-hand drive.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Myanmar?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Myanmar read your licence, but where Myanmar 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 Myanmar?
Conventional self-drive rental is largely unavailable; confirm current permit rules with the hire company, as roads may be restricted by military/opposition forces.
Which IDP convention does Myanmar use?
Myanmar 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 Myanmar?
Because Myanmar 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 Myanmar (Burma) from your country

Requirements for other countries