International Driving Permit for Central African Republic

The Central African Republic drives on the right-hand side of the road, and an International Driving Permit alongside your home licence is strongly advised for any foreign driver. Roads outside the capital are largely unpaved and can become impassable in the rainy season, so self-driving is uncommon. Many visitors travel with a hired local driver because of road and security conditions.

Do you need an IDP to drive in Central African Republic?

Required

Visitors who drive in the Central African Republic should carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, as it is expected at checkpoints.

Driving side: Right
Minimum driving age: 18 years
Region: Africa
IDP: Required

Local languages: French, Sango

Driving in Central African Republic: key facts

The country drives on the right, and the minimum driving age is 18.
Most roads beyond Bangui are unsurfaced and require a 4x4, with travel often disrupted during the rainy season.
Carry your passport, national licence, IDP and vehicle documents, since police and military checkpoints are frequent.

How to get your IDP for Central African Republic

Getting your International Driving Permit for Central African Republic takes only a few minutes:

1
Apply online
Complete a short application in about 2 minutes — no paperwork or appointments.
2
Upload your documents
Add a photo of your national driving licence and a passport-style photo.
3
Get your IDP instantly
Receive your digital International Driving Permit by email, ready to use in Central African Republic.

Frequently asked questions about driving in Central African Republic

Do I need an IDP to drive in the Central African Republic?

Yes, an International Driving Permit should be carried with your national licence, as officials at checkpoints commonly expect it. It provides a recognised translation of your driving credentials.

Can I rent a car in the Central African Republic with a foreign licence?

Self-drive rentals are limited, and most visitors hire a vehicle with a local driver. Where self-drive is possible, both a national licence and an IDP are expected.

What side of the road does the Central African Republic drive on?

The Central African Republic drives on the right-hand side of the road, with left-hand-drive vehicles.

What is the minimum age to drive in the Central African Republic?

The minimum legal driving age is 18, and any rental arrangements will typically require drivers to be older still.

Other countries in Africa

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