International Driving Permit for Panama
Panama drives on the right-hand side of the road, and visitors can typically use a foreign licence for the first 90 days. The Pan-American Highway runs through the country, but note that it famously stops at the roadless Darién Gap near the Colombian border.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Panama?
Tourists can usually drive in Panama on a valid foreign licence for short stays, but an IDP is useful as an official Spanish-language translation if your licence is in another language.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Americas
- IDP
- Useful
Local languages: Spanish
Driving in Panama: key facts
- Visitors may generally drive on a valid foreign licence for up to 90 days, after which a local licence is needed.
- Seatbelts are compulsory and using a handheld phone while driving is prohibited.
- Panama City traffic is heavy and toll roads (corredores) speed up travel, often payable via an electronic PanaPass.
How to get your IDP for Panama
Getting your International Driving Permit for Panama 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 Panama.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Panama
Do I need an IDP to drive in Panama?
Most visitors can drive on their home licence for short stays, but an IDP is useful as a certified Spanish translation, especially if your licence is not in Latin script or Spanish.
Can I rent a car in Panama with a foreign licence?
Yes, rental firms accept a valid foreign licence along with a passport and credit card; an IDP can smooth the process for non-Spanish licences.
What side of the road does Panama drive on?
Panama drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Panama?
The minimum driving age is 18, but most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 or 25 and may add a surcharge for younger renters.
Other countries in Americas
International Driving Permit for Panama
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