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International Driving Permit  Cape Verde

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International Driving Permit
  • 6 hours delivery
  • Free Shipping
  • Drive Santiago to Fogo
  • Usage Period: 1, 2 or 3 years
  • Car rental in Praia & Sal
  • Secure payment
  • Explore remote islands
  • Translated into 12 languages
International Driving Permit

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Why travel with an International Driving Permit in Cape Verde?

Cape Verde is a stunning archipelago where every island feels like a different world. Whether you’re planning to explore the cobbled streets of Mindelo or head deep into Fogo’s volcanic interior, having an International Driving Permit (IDP) can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

In Cape Verde, many police or security stops—especially outside of tourist hubs—require clear documentation. An IDP offers a recognized translation of your home license, reducing the risk of confusion or delays at checkpoints. It also simplifies vehicle rental procedures, as many agencies expect to see an IDP alongside your national license before handing over the keys.

If you’re traveling from a non-Portuguese-speaking country, language barriers may add stress during traffic stops. With an IDP, the essential details of your license are already translated into multiple languages, including Portuguese, which can help bridge the gap.

In short, driving with an IDP in Cape Verde isn’t just about rules—it’s about traveling confidently, staying flexible, and enjoying the islands at your own pace.

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What is an International Driving Permit?

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a translated version of your national driver’s license, designed to help you drive more easily in foreign countries. Our document is a non-governmental translation of your license, available in 12 major world languages and accepted in over 180 countries. It includes your name, photo, and driving details, making it easier for local authorities to understand your credentials.

While it does not replace a government-issued IDP, it can help reduce language barriers and simplify interactions with rental agencies or traffic officials during your travels. Travel with confidence, knowing your driver information is clearly presented, without the hassle of local bureaucracy.

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In 3 Steps Your International Driving Permit

How do you obtain an International Driving Permit?

1

1. Sign up online

Begin your application for a translation of your driver’s license.

2

2. Upload a photo

Make sure to upload a recent photo and follow the guidelines.

3

3. Done!

Wait for your confirmation, and you’re ready to travel!

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What to see & do with your IDP in Cape Verde?

With an International Driving Permit in hand, Cape Verde becomes your open-air playground. Renting a car gives you the freedom to chart your own course across this diverse island chain. Here are some of the best road trip experiences to enjoy with your IDP:

1. Santiago Island – History and Highland Adventures
Start in Praia and cruise to Cidade Velha, the first European colonial outpost in the tropics. Then, head north through the rugged Serra Malagueta mountains, where twisting roads offer breathtaking views and access to remote villages like Rui Vaz. An IDP ensures no hiccups if you’re pulled over in rural zones where documentation is checked more frequently.

2. Fogo Island – Volcano Roads and Wine Country
Drive into the caldera of Pico do Fogo, Cape Verde’s active volcano. The paved road into Chã das Caldeiras is one of the most surreal drives in the country, winding through black lava fields. Local wine tastings and small inns await adventurous travelers. A 4×4 rental, typically available to IDP holders, is highly recommended here.

3. Sal Island – Salt Craters and Coastlines
Explore the lunar landscapes of Pedra de Lume’s salt mines, then head south to Santa Maria for Cape Verde’s liveliest beach scene. With limited public transport on Sal, a rental car allows you to bounce between beach clubs, kite surfing spots, and hidden coves at your own pace.

4. Santo Antão – The Ultimate Scenic Drive
Hop on a short ferry from São Vicente, then drive the Estrada da Corda—the famous “Thread Road” that snakes through misty mountains and green valleys. It’s a driver’s dream, but local law enforcement may stop vehicles for safety checks. Having an IDP gives you one less thing to worry about on these cliffside curves.

5. Boa Vista – Dunes, Beaches, and Desert Trails
Navigate the Viana Desert’s red dunes, discover the abandoned village of Curral Velho, and end the day at Praia de Santa Mónica—one of Africa’s most beautiful beaches. With few road signs and long stretches of empty terrain, an IDP supports your independence while giving rental agencies peace of mind.

Whether you’re island-hopping or deep-diving into one destination, an IDP lets you drive with confidence throughout Cape Verde.

Time to travel around Cape Verde

For travelers planning a longer West African adventure, Cape Verde is the perfect launchpad for cross-border exploration. With your International Driving Permit, you’re not just limited to the islands—you can pair your Cape Verdean road trip with nearby mainland experiences by ferry or short flight.

Whether you’re extending your journey into coastal cities, national parks, or historic inland capitals, an IDP is your all-access pass for driving across regional borders. It helps smooth out rental pickups and official stops, making international road travel far less stressful.

Other Destinations

If you’re planning to drive in Cape Verde, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended—and in many cases, required. While citizens from EU countries may face fewer hurdles, travelers from the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and other non-Portuguese-speaking nations will need an IDP to satisfy local police, car rental agencies, and insurance providers.

Car Rental Expectations
Most rental companies in Cape Verde—especially on Sal, Santiago, and Fogo—will ask for both your national license and an IDP. A valid passport and a credit card deposit are also standard requirements. Without an IDP, you may be denied vehicle access, even if your home license is in English.

Police & Military Checkpoints
While major tourist zones are generally relaxed, checkpoints can appear unexpectedly, especially in remote or highland areas. Officers may not speak English or French, so an IDP helps prevent misunderstandings by clearly translating your credentials. Remaining calm, courteous, and showing both your license and IDP can significantly shorten the interaction.

Local Driving Culture & Enforcement
Drivers in Cape Verde are generally relaxed but not always rule-abiding. Overtaking on blind corners, ignoring seatbelt rules, or driving under the influence does occur. Traffic enforcement varies by island but tends to be stricter in urban or port areas. Always drive defensively and be aware that pedestrians and animals often share the road.

Key Driving Rules and Fines to Know:

  • Speed Limits: 30 km/h in towns; 80 km/h on main roads

  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers

  • Child Safety: Under 12s must sit in the back with proper restraints

  • Alcohol Limit: Effectively zero-tolerance (0.0% BAC)

  • Phone Use: Hands-free devices only

  • Headlights: Use in tunnels or poor visibility conditions

  • Tolls: None currently exist, but ferry transport between islands may incur fees

  • Night Driving: Strongly discouraged due to unlit roads and livestock

For updates on road safety and enforcement, refer to the Government of Cape Verde’s Ministry of Infrastructure (site in Portuguese).

Want more detailed information before your trip? Be sure to check out our complete Cape Verde Driving Guide here.

Frequently Asked Questions

To obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP), you typically need a valid driver’s license from your home country. The IDP acts as a multilingual document that makes it easier for rental companies and local authorities to interpret your license. While processing times and formats can vary by provider, many travelers prefer digital IDP services for speed and convenience. Our platform offers a fast and secure way to get your IDP, with delivery directly to your email in most cases. This is especially helpful if you’re already abroad or planning a last-minute trip.

Yes, travelers can drive in Cape Verde with a valid driver’s license, but an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended. Rental agencies across Cape Verde usually request both your national license and an IDP before allowing vehicle pickup. Additionally, traffic stops and police checkpoints are common, especially in more remote or mountainous areas. An IDP helps minimize language-related confusion by providing a standardized translation of your license details. Visitors should also be familiar with local road rules, such as driving on the right, seatbelt requirements, and speed limits. This ensures a smoother and more confident driving experience during your stay.

The time it takes to receive an International Driving Permit depends on the method you choose. Traditional processes may take several days or even weeks, especially if mailing forms or documents is required. However, if you need your IDP urgently, digital services can significantly reduce the waiting time. Our platform provides a digital IDP translation that is typically processed and delivered within 6 to 24 hours, depending on your selected plan. This makes it an ideal solution for travelers with short notice or those already overseas.

Yes, U.S. citizens can travel to Cape Verde. Tourist visas are generally required but can be obtained easily online or upon arrival, depending on the current entry policies. U.S. travelers should carry a valid passport, and if planning to drive, it’s advisable to have both their U.S. driver’s license and an International Driving Permit. Cape Verde’s road infrastructure is good in many areas, but remote locations and mountainous regions may require extra caution. Driving offers a flexible and rewarding way to explore the islands, but travelers should stay updated on local entry, health, and road safety regulations before departure.