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International Driving Permit in Botswana

Botswana

Get an easy International Driver's License for your travel in Botswana

  • Instant approval
  • Fast & Easy Process
  • Valid from 1 to 3 years
  • Drive Legally Overseas
  • Translated in 70 Languages
  • Recognized in over 150 countries
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IDL

Where to get an International Driving Permit in Botswana?

Obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Botswana is straightforward if you hold a valid Botswana national driver's license. For those planning a visit to Botswana, it is advisable to contact the relevant authority in your home country to secure an IDP before departure. However, if you are already traveling and do not possess the IDP, you may opt to have your national driver's license translated online. This method offers a quicker, more convenient, and efficient way to ensure you can legally drive during your travels.

The International Driving Permit is a translation of the national driving license into many languages. The first ID cards appeared in 1926, after the Paris International Convention relative to Motor Traffic. The International Driving Permit was also influenced by two other conventions in 1949 and 1968. The International Driving Permit is the same as the International Driving License.

We remind you that the IDP works only with a valid national license.

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How to obtain an International Driving Permit in Botswana online?

Simply and quickly
To get the International Driving Permit (IDP), you should apply and then fill out the form for which you need to give us:
  • 1. A photo of your valid domestic driving license
  • 2. Your personal data
  • 3. A photo of yourself
  • 4. Your signature (scan or photo it)
Our services will not cost you a fortune.
Get an International Driving Permit (IDP) now and travel easily.
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IDP promoters

How to get an International Driving Permit in Botswana?

According to the Vienna Convention of 1968, International Driving Permits (IDPs) are authorized to be issued by national governments or designated organizations. In most countries, this function is carried out by automobile associations affiliated with the AIT/FIA, the police, or other authorized entities. To obtain an International Driving Permit in Botswana, you must possess a local license and apply to the relevant authorities here (please notify us if the link is not working). The cost and processing time for an IDP vary by country.

If you hold a national license not issued in Botswana, you must verify if your license permits you to drive and if you require an IDP. If an IDP is necessary, the only option is to order a translation of your driver's license, available either via delivery or as an electronic version (confirm with the rental car company if an electronic version is acceptable), for example, through our services.

For U.S. citizens with only a U.S. driver's license, you can obtain an IDP from AAA, but it must be done before traveling to Botswana.!

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FAQ

How to get an International Driving Permit in Botswana?

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If you have a local license and want to travel, contact a competent organization. If you are an American and plan to travel in advance, you can get an IDP from AAA. In other cases, you can have your driver's license translated into the required languages so that you can travel with your national license and its translation.

How to apply for International Driving Permit?

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Our application process is fast and simple. Complete the IDP application form, attach a copy of your valid driver's license, your handwritten signature and a color ID photo, and make the payment. You can apply for an IDP online here.

Do I need an International Driving Permit for Botswana?

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Botswana has not unified its driving license in accordance with the 1968 Vienna Convention. Drivers from other countries need an International Driving License, unless Botswana and the country that issued your license have an additional agreement on the recognition of driving licenses.

Can I drive in Botswana with a US license?

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You can only drive in Botswana with your driver's license if you have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP). Additional information for traveling U.S. citizens can be found on the government website.

Сan an American drive in Botswana?

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To drive an American in Botswana, you must have an International Driving Permit (IDP). Additional information for traveling U.S. citizens can be found on the government website.

What is the International Driver's Document?

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Our IDD is ideal for travelers visiting multilingual destinations. No test is required, and the IDD is valid for up to three years. This document is used in conjunction with, but does not replace, your valid national license; it is a translation of your driver’s license in three formats.

Can I rent a car with this document?

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Usually, yes. However, as requirements vary from region to region, you are advised to inquire directly with car rental companies.

Can I purchase car insurance with the IDD?

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Usually, yes. However, as requirements vary from region to region, you are advised to inquire directly with local insurances companies.

What do you need to know to drive in Botswana?

The research was last conducted in February 2025, and the information is subject to change over time. You may copy this information only if you provide a link back to this page.

  1. Participation in the 1949 and/or 1968 United Nations Conventions on Road Traffic

    • Botswana is a party to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic.
    • Botswana acceded to the Geneva, 19 September 1949 Convention on 3 January 1967 (a). [1]

  2. Recognition of the International Driving Permit (IDP)

    • Botswana recognizes International Driving Permits (IDPs).
    • The validity term of the IDP recognized is 1 year, as per the 1949 Convention. [2]

  3. Duration of driving with a foreign license (+ IDP) if resident or non-resident

    • For non-residents:
      • Holders of foreign driving licences may use their foreign driving licence for a maximum of 90 calendar days, after which point they must apply for the Botswana driving licence. [3]
      • Foreigners who hold valid international driving permits and international driving licences are allowed to drive without converting. [3]
      • Holders of driving licences issued within SADC states are exempted, however they have an option to convert if they desire to do so. [3]
    • For residents:
      • New residents must obtain a Botswana driver's license after 90 days of taking up residence in the country. [4]

Source links:

  1. https://treaties.un.org/Pages/ViewDetailsV.aspx?src=TREATY&mtdsq_no=XIB-1&chapter=11&Temp=mtdsq5&clang=en
  2. https://botswanalaws.com/consolidated-statutes/principle-legislation/geneva-conventions
  3. https://www.gov.bw/transport/foreign-driving-licence-conversion
  4. https://botswanalaws.com/StatutesActpdf/2003Subsidiarypdf/ROAD%20TRAFFIC%20(AMENDMENT)%20REGULATIONS%20S.%20L%20NO.%2043%20OF%202003.pdf

Driving tips for Botswana:

  • Driving in Botswana is on the left side of the road.
  • The minimum age to drive is 18. You must be at least 18 to rent a car in Botswana.
  • The maximum allowed speed limit is 30 km/h in residential areas, 60 km/h in urban and rural areas, 100 km/h when you approach towns and villages and 120 km/h outside residential areas.
  • Seat belt is a must.
  • Hands-free kit is a must.
  • You’d better rent a 4x4 car since not all roads are paved.
  • Child restraint system is a must.
  • Do not drive after dark.
  • The best time to go to Botswana is from May to August.
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