International Driving Permit for Vanuatu
Vanuatu drives on the right-hand side of the road, a legacy of its dual British-French colonial past. Roads on the main islands of Efate and Espiritu Santo are mostly sealed near towns but quickly turn to rough coral or dirt tracks inland, so a 4x4 and an extra dose of caution go a long way.
Do you need an IDP to drive in Vanuatu?
An International Driving Permit is recommended for driving in Vanuatu, as rental agencies and police may ask to see one alongside your home licence.
Quick facts
- Driving side
- Right
- Minimum driving age
- 18 years
- Region
- Oceania
- IDP
- Recommended
Local languages: Bislama, English, French
Driving in Vanuatu: key facts
- Speed limits are typically around 50 km/h in built-up areas and lower in villages where pedestrians, dogs and pigs often share the road.
- Outside Port Vila and Luganville, many roads are unsealed, narrow and prone to washouts during the November to April wet season.
- Always carry your home licence plus IDP, as drivers must produce identification documents on request from police.
How to get your IDP for Vanuatu
Getting your International Driving Permit for Vanuatu 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 Vanuatu.
Frequently asked questions about driving in Vanuatu
Do I need an IDP to drive in Vanuatu?
An IDP is not always strictly mandated but is strongly recommended, since rental firms and police frequently request one together with your national driving licence.
Can I rent a car in Vanuatu with a foreign licence?
Yes, most rental companies accept a valid foreign licence, and pairing it with an IDP makes the process smoother, especially if your licence is not in English.
What side of the road does Vanuatu drive on?
Vanuatu drives on the right-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Vanuatu?
The minimum driving age in Vanuatu is 18, and many rental companies set their own minimum age at 21 or above with a deposit.
Other countries in Oceania
International Driving Permit for Vanuatu
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