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World Driving Permit

🇸🇱 Do you need an IDP to drive in Sierra Leone?

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

Sierra Leone is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention, so it recognises the 1949-format IDP. A valid national licence is generally accepted for short visits, but an IDP is strongly recommended because officials may not read non-English licences. Drives on the right.

Renting a car in Sierra Leone

Most rental firms expect an IDP alongside the home licence, passport and a credit card; self-drive hire is limited and chauffeured cars are common.

Motorcycles & scooters: An IDP with the correct category is advisable for any motorcycle or okada hire.

What to carry when driving in Sierra Leone

  • 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
  • Avoid road travel outside Freetown at night
  • Carry passport while driving
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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.

Sierra Leone: frequently asked questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Sierra Leone?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended for driving in Sierra Leone, even where it is not always strictly enforced; where one is used, Sierra Leone 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. Sierra Leone is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention, so it recognises the 1949-format IDP. A valid national licence is generally accepted for short visits, but an IDP is strongly recommended because officials may not read non-English licences. Drives on the right.
Is a translated driving licence accepted in Sierra Leone?
A certified translation companion helps officials and car-rental desks in Sierra Leone read your licence, but where Sierra Leone 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 Sierra Leone?
Most rental firms expect an IDP alongside the home licence, passport and a credit card; self-drive hire is limited and chauffeured cars are common.
Which IDP convention does Sierra Leone use?
Sierra Leone 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 Sierra Leone?
Because Sierra Leone 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 Sierra Leone from your country

Requirements for other countries