International Driving Permit for Bahrain
Bahrain drives on the right and has a dense, modern road network linking Manama with the King Fahd Causeway to Saudi Arabia. Because the national licence is issued in Arabic, an International Driving Permit paired with your home licence makes things far simpler for short-stay visitors and at rental desks.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Bahrain?
Short-stay visitors driving on a foreign licence are strongly advised to carry an International Driving Permit, since Bahraini licences and many road signs use Arabic script and rental firms commonly request it.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Middle East
- IDP
- Recommended
Local languages: Arabic, English
Driving in Bahrain: key facts
- Driving is on the right, and the country enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy on alcohol, with severe penalties for drink-driving.
- Seatbelts are compulsory and mobile phone use while driving is prohibited; fines are issued through an automated camera system.
- Bahrain is compact, so most destinations are within a short drive, and the causeway connects the island to mainland Saudi Arabia.
How to get your IDP for Bahrain
Getting your International Driving Permit for Bahrain takes only a few minutes:
- 1Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
- 2Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
- 3Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Bahrain.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Bahrain
Do I need an IDP to drive in Bahrain?
For short visits an IDP is highly recommended to accompany your foreign licence, as it translates your credentials into a format Bahraini authorities and rental firms recognise. Longer-term residents must obtain a local Bahraini licence.
Can I rent a car in Bahrain with a foreign licence?
Yes, rental companies generally accept a valid foreign licence, and most prefer or require an IDP, especially if your licence is not in Arabic or English.
What side of the road does Bahrain drive on?
Bahrain drives on the right, and vehicles are left-hand-drive.
What is the minimum age to drive in Bahrain?
The minimum driving age is 18, but car rental companies usually require drivers to be at least 21, and sometimes older for larger vehicles.
Other countries in Middle East
International Driving Permit for Bahrain
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