Is a local driving license valid in Algeria?
If you are driving in Algeria, your local driving license may only be valid when supported by an International Driving Permit (IDP). Driving without an IDP can result in issues during checks by the country’s authorities. Upon arrival in Algeria, you have three months to use your driving license and IDP. If you plan to stay longer than three months, you must apply for an Algerian driving license.
Which countries recognize an International Driving Permit?
The International Driving Permit, which is valid in over 150 countries, is important to always have handy. However, ensure it has not expired to continue using this document abroad. If the expiration date has passed, you must apply for a new IDP as an expired one cannot be used.
Having an International Driving Permit can help you drive with more confidence abroad. It serves to support your local driving license, not replace it. This document contains translations of your local driving license in 12 languages recognized by the United Nations.
The following countries recognize the use of an IDP:
- Sri Lanka
- Thailand
- Tobago
- Tunisia
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
- Vietnam
- Zimbabwe
- Brazil
- Canada
- Cyprus
- Egypt
- Iran
- Japan
- Kuwait
- Malaysia
- Morocco
- Netherlands
- Pakistan
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- Spain
- Taiwan
- Australia
- Bahrain
- Bulgaria
- Congo
- Ivory Coast
- Croatia
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Laos
- Kenya
- Norway
- Macau
- Philippines
- Liechtenstein
- And more!
Who can apply for an International Driving Permit?
Individuals who wish to drive in another country can apply for an IDP, provided they have a local driving license from their own country and are 18 years or older. The application process can be easily completed online through our website. It is important to have your local driving license and a passport photo ready for the IDP application. Requesting an IDP is smooth and without complications.
Do I need an IDP while driving in Algeria?
To drive in Algeria, an International Driving Permit is required. The Algerian traffic authorities require every tourist driving to have an IDP. It is highly recommended to always have your international driving license with you when driving abroad for ease during checks.
Can I use my digital copy if I lose the physical copy of my IDP?
A digital copy of your IDP cannot be used, as only a limited number of countries recognize this. In case of losing your physical IDP, it is advisable to immediately request a replacement. We offer free replacements of lost IDPs issued by us. Our team processes replacement requests within 24 hours of submission, after which the new physical copy is immediately dispatched to you.
Key driving rules in Algeria
During your journey through Algeria, it is advisable to drive your own vehicle. If you do not have your own vehicle, car rental facilities are available in the country. It is essential to be familiar with the key driving rules in Algeria to have a worry-free trip through this beautiful country.
Basic traffic rules
For drivers from countries where driving is on the left side of the road, it’s important to know that in Algeria, traffic should be on the right side, with overtaking on the left side in line with local regulations.
Always carry your International Driving Permit
The Algerian traffic police require every tourist or foreign driver to have an International Driving Permit with them overlapping their local driving license while driving in the country. Due to regular checkpoints, it is advised to have this document readily available at all times.
Remember to bring the required documents
In addition to your International Driving Permit, your local driving license with home address, passport, and car-related documents should always be with you. These documents are required to be presented to authorities during military checkpoints, hence it is important to keep them handy.
Driving under the influence and using illegal drugs is prohibited
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited in Algeria. There is a zero-tolerance policy towards alcohol use, with offenders facing fines or even imprisonment. Driving under the influence also increases the risk of traffic accidents.
Adhere to speed limits
Complying with the prevailing speed limits on the roads is essential to ensure traffic safety and prevent accidents. Even in situations of haste, it is advisable to strictly follow the speed limits to avoid fines and license suspension.
Always wear your seatbelt
Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers. This precaution can significantly reduce injuries in traffic accidents and is therefore crucial. Not wearing a seat belt can result in fines at checkpoints by traffic police officers.
Follow traffic signs
To avoid getting lost and minimize the risk of violations while driving, it is essential to strictly follow traffic signs. These signs serve as guidance on your journey and contribute to traffic safety.
Using mobile phones while driving is not allowed
Using mobile phones while driving is strictly prohibited. Keeping full attention on the road is vital to prevent distractions and minimize the risk of traffic accidents. If necessary, it is advisable to safely pull over to the side of the road before using your phone.
Do not drive with an expired license
It is illegal to drive with an expired driver’s license, both locally and internationally. Ensure your local and international driver’s licenses remain valid so you can legally continue using them without any legal complications.
Top destinations
With seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, Algeria offers numerous discovery opportunities. Whether exploring Roman ruins or relaxing on white sandy beaches, a trip to Algeria promises a vibrant and refreshing experience.
Maqam Echahid
The Maqam Echahid monument, also known as the Martyr’s Monument, is an iconic structure in Algeria. The monument, standing at 92 meters high, symbolizes the country’s culture, agriculture, and industry. The Eternal Flame, located beneath the three united towers, is a distinctive feature of the monument.
This monument is open to the public year-round, with no entrance fee. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful design as it is open 24 hours a day. It is recommended to visit the monument on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Driving directions
- From Houari Boumediene Airport, via the Rocade Nord d’Alger/N11 route, it takes an estimated 21 minutes to reach Maqam Echahid.
- Follow the Pénétrante de l’aéroport Houari Boumediene and Rocade Nord d’Alger/N11 to Boulevard Khelifa Oulmane in Algiers. Exit Pénétrante des Annassers/N5D.
- Continue on Boulevard Khelifa Oulmane.
- Stay on Boulevard Khelifa Oulmane.
- Turn right onto Chemin Omar Kechkar.
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit and stay on Chemin Omar Kechkar.
- Your destination will be on the right.
Notre Dame d’Afrique
Notre Dame d’Afrique, also known as the Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique, is an impressive Catholic church in Algiers. Situated on a cliff with a panoramic view of the city, the church’s architecture combines Roman and Byzantine elements. Both the interior and exterior are adorned with mosaics and religious artworks.
Notre Dame d’Afrique is open daily throughout the year, from 11:00 to 12:30 and 15:00 to 17:00. Visitors are required to dress appropriately according to the church’s dress code. An afternoon visit is recommended to capture the beauty of Algiers.
Driving directions
- It takes approximately 24 minutes via the N11 route to reach the Basilique Notre Dame d’Afrique from Maqam Echahid.
- Follow Boulevard Khelifa Oulmane and Rue Mohamed Belkacemi to Boulevard de l’ALN/N11 in Belouizdad.
- Continue on the N11. Take Rue d’Angkor and Boulevard Colonel Abderahmane Mira to Avenue Ziar Abdelkader.
- Take Boulevard Lounas Omar and Chemin Al Mahdi Ibn Toumeur to Rue de Zighara in Bologhine.
Djamaa el Djazaïr
Also known as the Great Mosque of Algiers, Djamaa el Djazaïr is the third-largest mosque in the world. After a seven-year construction period, the mosque was opened to the public in 2019, featuring one of the world’s tallest minarets. The mosque is accessible 24/7 throughout the year, with possible opening time changes during Yennayer (January).
Visitors should be dressed respectfully when visiting a mosque and mindful of any dress codes.
Driving directions
- From Notre Dame d’Afrique, it takes an estimated 23 minutes via the N11 route to reach Djamaa el Djazaïr.
- Take Chemin Al Mahdi Ibn Toumeur and Boulevard Lounas Omar to Boulevard de l’Emir Khaled.
- Follow Rue d’Angkor/N11 to Mohammadia and take the Rocade Nord d’Alger/N11 exit.
- Merge onto Chemin Omar Kechkar and then take the 3rd exit at the roundabout.
Tipaza
The town of Tipaza, with ruins blending Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine architecture, offers historical discoveries along the coast of central Algeria. As one of the seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Roman ruins are a popular attraction, including the Mauretania Royal Mausoleum.
For beach lovers, Chenoua Beach in Tipaza offers a relaxing environment. The best time to visit Tipaza is from April to October when the weather is pleasant. Do not miss exploring the historical ruins of Tipaza and capturing unforgettable moments.
Driving directions
- To reach Tipaza from Djamaa el Djazaïr, via the Rocade Tipaza route, a journey of 1 hour and 3 minutes is required.
- Take the N5 in Dely Ibrahim from Route du Frais Vallon and Route de 5 Juillet.
- Continue on the N5. Take Rocade Tipaza to N11 in Tipaza and exit Rocade Tipaza.
- Stay on the N11. Drive from Rue de la Gare to your destination.
Djémila Village
Djémila Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, hosts well-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa. The former Roman settlement Cuicul provides visitors with views of historical structures such as the Temple of Gens Septimia and the Arch of Caracalla.
The entrance fee for the ruins of Djémila Village is affordable and also includes access to the museum. The months from March to May offer a pleasant temperature for visiting Djémila Village.
Driving directions
- It takes a little over 4 hours to reach Djémila Village from Tipaza, via the A1 route.
- Follow the Rocade Tipaza from the N11 and drive northwest on Rue de la Gare to Rue du 1er Novembre/N11.
- Turn left onto Rue du 1er Novembre/N11 and take the 2nd exit at the roundabout.
- Continue on Rocade Tipaza and take the exit towards 2eme Rocade d’Alger and the A1.
- Take the W117 and W165 to your destination in Djémila.
Timgad
Timgad, a historical city located in the Aures Mountains, is known as the “Pompeii of Africa” due to the well-preserved Roman ruins. Landmarks such as the Trajan’s Arch and the Roman theater testify to the city’s Roman heritage.
Access to the ruins of Timgad is affordable, with opening hours varying by season. It is recommended to visit Timgad from May to October for favorable weather.
Driving directions
- From Djémila, it takes slightly over 3 hours to reach Timgad via the W118 and N75 routes.
- Follow the W117 to your destination in Timgad, for a beautiful journey through this historic area.
