International Driving Permit for Kenya
Kenya drives on the left, a reflection of its British colonial past, and an IDP is recommended to accompany your home licence at rental desks and frequent police checks. The country offers spectacular driving, from Nairobi's busy streets to the Rift Valley escarpments and safari routes near the Maasai Mara. Road quality is mixed, and unsealed tracks, wildlife, and matatus (shared minibuses) call for alert, defensive driving.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Kenya?
An International Driving Permit is recommended in Kenya, where it is commonly requested by rental firms and police even though a valid foreign licence is accepted for short stays.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Left
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Africa
- IDP
- Recommended
Local languages: English, Swahili
Driving in Kenya: key facts
- Seatbelts are required, and Kenya has been tightening enforcement of speed limits and drink-driving laws.
- Many national park and rural roads are unpaved, so a four-wheel-drive is advisable for safari self-driving.
- Police checkpoints are common, so always carry your passport, licence, and IDP.
How to get your IDP for Kenya
Getting your International Driving Permit for Kenya 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 Kenya.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Kenya
Do I need an IDP to drive in Kenya?
An IDP is not strictly mandatory for short visits, as a valid foreign licence is accepted, but it is recommended and frequently requested by rental companies and police.
Can I rent a car in Kenya with a foreign licence?
Yes, you can rent with a valid foreign licence, though many agencies prefer to see an IDP as well, particularly for longer hires or self-drive safaris.
What side of the road does Kenya drive on?
Kenya drives on the left-hand side of the road, with right-hand-drive vehicles.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Kenya?
The minimum driving age is 18, but rental companies usually require drivers to be at least 23 or 25, and some impose a maximum age limit too.
Other countries in Africa
International Driving Permit for Kenya
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