International Driving Permit for Palau
Palau drives on the right-hand side of the road, and the relaxed island pace is reflected in a notably low national speed limit. With only a handful of paved roads concentrated around Koror and Babeldaob, most visiting drivers find an IDP and a valid home licence are enough to get behind the wheel.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Palau?
Visitors driving in Palau should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their home licence, as rental agencies and police commonly expect it.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Oceania
- IDP
- Recommended
Local languages: Palauan, English
Driving in Palau: key facts
- Speed limits are very low by international standards, often around 25 mph (40 km/h) in built-up areas of Koror.
- Seatbelts are required, and traffic is light outside the main island of Koror and the connecting causeway to Babeldaob.
- Fuel and rental options are limited, so it is wise to refuel in Koror before exploring more remote parts of Babeldaob.
How to get your IDP for Palau
Getting your International Driving Permit for Palau 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 Palau.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Palau
Do I need an IDP to drive in Palau?
An IDP is not strictly mandated for short visits, but it is strongly recommended because car-hire firms and local police often ask to see one alongside your national licence.
Can I rent a car in Palau with a foreign licence?
Yes, most rental companies in Koror accept a valid foreign driving licence, and pairing it with an IDP helps avoid any complications at pickup.
What side of the road does Palau drive on?
Palau drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to drive in Palau?
The minimum driving age in Palau is 18, and rental firms may set a higher minimum age or charge a young-driver surcharge.
Other countries in Oceania
International Driving Permit for Palau
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