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International Driving Permit Nigeria

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Carefree driving
Usage Period: 1, 2 or 3 year
Car rental in Lagos
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Drives to Yankari Reserve
Translated into 12 languages

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Accepted in 180+ countries
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Why travel with an International Driving Permit in Nigeria?

Driving in Nigeria offers travelers unmatched access to diverse regions—from the bustling cities to remote countryside destinations. Having an International Driving Permit (IDP) can significantly improve your driving experience. While not a legal requirement for every visitor, many local car rental agencies prefer or require one alongside your domestic license. It also makes communication easier in situations where your original license may not be well understood.

Checkpoints are common throughout Nigeria, especially on intercity highways. An IDP helps minimize misunderstandings during police or military stops by providing a clear, multilingual translation of your driving credentials. It also reduces delays and contributes to a smoother experience on the road. Whether you’re planning to explore Lagos’ urban landscape or venture into the scenic routes of Cross River State, carrying an IDP adds confidence and convenience to your journey.

With high variability in road conditions and regional enforcement, an IDP is a smart travel companion when navigating Nigeria behind the wheel.

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. Sign up online

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

2. Upload a photo

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

3. Done!

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

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What to see & do with your IDP in Nigeria?

With an International Driving Permit in hand, road travel in Nigeria becomes not just more convenient—but also more exciting. From the buzzing metropolis of Lagos to the peaceful highlands in the southeast, driving opens up a wide array of unforgettable destinations. Here are a few road trip-worthy places to add to your itinerary:

1. Lagos to Badagry Coastline
This popular coastal route offers access to beautiful beaches and historical landmarks, including the Badagry Heritage Museum and the former slave trade ports. It’s an easy half-day drive from Lagos and offers a rewarding mix of history and relaxation.

2. Jos and the Plateau Region
Known for its cool climate and scenic rock formations, Jos is ideal for travelers seeking an escape from Nigeria’s hotter zones. The surrounding area is filled with striking geography, including Shere Hills and Riyom Rock. Driving here gives you flexibility to explore small villages and nature parks at your own pace.

3. Abuja to Gurara Falls
Just a two-hour drive from the capital, Gurara Falls is a serene natural retreat with cascading waters, picnic areas, and lush scenery. The route is relatively smooth, and an IDP can help ease passage through occasional checkpoints.

4. Calabar and Cross River State
A road trip to Calabar offers a cultural deep dive with stops at the Calabar Museum and the annual Calabar Carnival if you visit in December. You can also explore nearby Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary for a touch of nature and conservation.

5. Ibadan to Erin Ijesha Waterfalls
This route takes you through the heart of Yoruba culture and into one of Nigeria’s most scenic waterfall regions. The drive is ideal for those who enjoy combining cultural learning with outdoor adventure.

With an IDP, these trips become more accessible, allowing you to rent cars, pass checkpoints smoothly, and explore areas where public transportation may be limited or inconsistent.

Time to travel around Nigeria

If you’re planning an extended journey through West Africa, Nigeria makes a great starting point. With well-connected borders and several major highways leading out of the country, road travel to nearby nations is both realistic and rewarding. An International Driving Permit allows you to drive with greater ease across borders, helping you explore vibrant cities, natural parks, and coastal escapes beyond Nigeria.

Other Destinations

Everything You Need to Know About International Driving Permits for Nigeria

Visitors to Nigeria should be aware of specific driving requirements based on their country of origin. Travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, and Canada are allowed to drive temporarily with their domestic license, but many local car rental companies still ask for an International Driving Permit (IDP) for security and clarity. The IDP serves as a standardized translation that is especially useful in regions where English may not be the first language spoken by authorities.

Car rentals in Nigeria, particularly in cities like Lagos and Abuja, often require both a valid driver’s license and an IDP before handing over the keys. Police and military checkpoints are common along highways and city outskirts. During these stops, presenting an IDP can help speed up the process and avoid confusion, especially when officers need to verify foreign documentation.

Nigerian roads vary widely—from well-maintained expressways to unpaved rural routes. Local drivers can be assertive, and traffic enforcement is inconsistent, especially outside major cities. To stay safe, drivers should always be alert and follow posted rules.

Here are some practical driving laws and tips for Nigeria:

Drive on the right-hand side of the road
Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 80–100 km/h on highways
Mandatory seatbelt use for all occupants
Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless hands-free
Alcohol limit: 0.05% BAC; roadside testing is possible
Expect toll gates on major highways (carry cash)
Watch for unmarked speed bumps and road repairs
Third-party car insurance is required

For more on official traffic rules, visit the Federal Road Safety Corps or the Nigeria Police Force.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, tourists can drive in Nigeria using a valid foreign driver’s license for a limited period. However, many local car rental agencies and authorities recommend carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP) to avoid issues with language barriers and checkpoint verification.

While not legally mandatory, most rental companies in Nigeria ask for an International Driving Permit along with your home license. It helps ensure clarity for both the rental process and interactions with local traffic officers.

Yes, checkpoints are common across Nigeria, especially on highways between cities. Having an International Driving Permit can make these stops faster and easier by clearly translating your driver details for officials.

In Nigeria, you drive on the right-hand side. Seatbelts are mandatory, mobile phones must be hands-free, and alcohol limits are strict. Always obey posted speed limits and watch for toll booths and unexpected road hazards.