International Driving Permit for Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso drives on the right, and its landlocked roads cross Sahelian plains linking Ouagadougou with Bobo-Dioulasso and rural communities. Road conditions vary widely between paved highways and rough unsealed tracks, and travellers should check current security advice before driving long distances.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Burkina Faso?
Foreign visitors generally need an International Driving Permit to drive legally in Burkina Faso, used together with their valid national licence.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Africa
- IDP
- Required
Local languages: French
Driving in Burkina Faso: key facts
- Roads range from sealed national routes to unpaved rural tracks, so a sturdy vehicle is advisable for off-highway travel.
- Police and gendarmerie checkpoints are common, and drivers should carry full documentation.
- Conditions can be dusty in the dry season and prone to flooding during the rains.
How to get your IDP for Burkina Faso
Getting your International Driving Permit for Burkina Faso 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 Burkina Faso.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Burkina Faso
Do I need an IDP to drive in Burkina Faso?
Yes, foreign visitors are generally expected to hold an International Driving Permit together with their home licence to drive legally in Burkina Faso.
Can I rent a car in Burkina Faso with a foreign licence?
Rental options are limited and often arranged with a driver, but where self-drive is available you will typically need an IDP alongside your national licence.
What side of the road does Burkina Faso drive on?
Burkina Faso drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Burkina Faso?
The minimum driving age is 18, though rental providers commonly require drivers to be older and to have several years of experience.
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International Driving Permit for Burkina Faso
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