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International Driving Permit Papua New Guinea

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Carefree driving
Usage Period: 1, 2 or 3 year
Drive to remote highlands
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Usable in 180+ countries
Translated into 12 languages

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Accepted in 180+ countries
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Why travel with an International Driving Permit in Papua New Guinea?

Papua New Guinea offers one of the most adventurous driving experiences in the South Pacific, with winding highland roads, remote coastal villages, and off-the-beaten-path jungle tracks. Traveling with an International Driving Permit (IDP) helps make these journeys more convenient and stress-free, especially when dealing with car rental companies or passing through occasional police and military checkpoints.

While English is one of the official languages, an IDP provides a clear translation of your domestic license, minimizing confusion during roadside stops or when renting a vehicle. Many local agencies request it to verify eligibility, even if your home license is accepted.

Driving in Papua New Guinea can be unpredictable — road conditions vary, and services are limited outside major cities. An IDP adds credibility and peace of mind as you navigate the island’s rugged terrain and explore its hidden gems. Whether you’re heading for Port Moresby or trekking into the Highlands, having your IDP along ensures smoother interactions on the road.

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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More about Papua New Guinea

What to see & do with your IDP in Papua New Guinea?

Exploring Papua New Guinea by car opens the door to some of the most fascinating and untouched landscapes in the world. With an International Driving Permit, travelers can confidently hit the road and uncover the country’s cultural depth, lush terrain, and remote communities.

1. Drive from Port Moresby to Sogeri Plateau
Just a short journey from the capital, this route leads to the scenic Sogeri Plateau. Along the way, you can visit the Bomana War Cemetery and enjoy views from the foothills of the Owen Stanley Range. The road is paved and offers a smooth introduction to PNG’s natural beauty.

2. The Highlands Highway – Lae to Mount Hagen
One of the country’s most vital road corridors, the Highlands Highway stretches over rugged terrain and connects major inland cities. It’s a road trip for adventurous drivers, passing through coffee plantations, rainforest valleys, and highland communities. An IDP makes it easier to rent 4WD vehicles for this type of journey.

3. Explore the Gazelle Peninsula in East New Britain
In the Rabaul area, drive through a landscape shaped by volcanic activity. Visit the active Tavurvur Volcano, historical war sites, and vibrant local markets. The region is car-friendly, with reasonable road infrastructure in tourist areas, and is ideal for independent travelers.

4. Madang’s Coastal Drive
Drive along Madang’s beautiful coastline to discover secluded beaches, traditional villages, and snorkeling spots. This region offers relaxing seaside drives and a calm atmosphere, suitable for those wanting a gentler road experience.

5. Hiritano Highway – Port Moresby to Kerema
This remote highway travels west from Port Moresby through dense jungle and swampy lowlands. It’s not for the faint of heart — a 4WD is a must — but the route offers access to untouched villages and scenic river crossings.

With an IDP, you’ll have more flexibility renting vehicles and communicating your credentials along these varied routes. Whether exploring mountains, coasts, or jungle interiors, Papua New Guinea’s road trips promise unforgettable experiences.

Time to travel around Papua New Guinea

If you’re planning a longer trip in the region, having an International Driving Permit gives you the freedom to explore neighboring countries with ease. Many travelers choose to expand their itinerary by driving across borders, whether heading toward island territories or nearby countries in Southeast Asia or Oceania.

With your IDP in hand, border crossings and car rentals are more straightforward, making it easier to enjoy regional diversity by road.

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Everything You Need to Know About International Driving Permits for Papua New Guinea

Visitors to Papua New Guinea who plan to drive should strongly consider carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP), especially if their license is not issued in a Commonwealth country. While local authorities often accept English-language licenses from the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and the EU, many rental agencies and checkpoint officials prefer seeing an IDP for added clarity and verification.

Car rental companies in Papua New Guinea are mostly based in Port Moresby, Lae, and other major towns. They typically require both your domestic driver’s license and an IDP for rentals, particularly for 4WD or high-clearance vehicles, which are essential for navigating rural and highland roads.

Police and military checkpoints are common, especially along highways connecting remote regions. Officers may request identification and driver credentials. Having an IDP helps smooth the process, avoiding misunderstandings caused by language or unfamiliar license formats.

Local driving culture can be challenging for newcomers. Expect varying road conditions, limited signage outside urban centers, and occasional aggressive driving. Defensive driving is essential, and travelers should plan routes carefully before setting off.

Key driving laws and rules to know:

Drive on the left side of the road
Seatbelts must be worn at all times
Speed limits: 60 km/h in towns, 100 km/h on highways
Alcohol limit: 0.05% BAC — strict enforcement in place
Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited
Night driving is discouraged outside major towns
No toll roads exist, but poor road conditions may require 4WD
Be cautious of pedestrians and animals on rural roads

For official road safety information, visit the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, U.S. citizens are required to obtain a visa before entering Papua New Guinea for tourism purposes. Fortunately, Papua New Guinea offers an eVisa system that allows travelers to apply online prior to their trip. The tourist visa typically allows stays of up to 60 days and may be extended once within the country, depending on the traveler’s eligibility and purpose.

Applicants must have a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity, proof of onward or return travel, and may be asked to provide details of accommodation or sufficient funds. Entry conditions can change, so travelers are encouraged to check requirements close to their travel date.

While the visa is essential for entry, travelers who plan to drive in Papua New Guinea should also consider carrying an International Driving Permit (IDP), as it may be requested by rental agencies or at police checkpoints.

Travelers visiting Papua New Guinea are advised to be up to date on routine vaccinations, as well as receive additional vaccines recommended for the region. These may include hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever (if arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever), Japanese encephalitis (for long-term stays or rural travel), and rabies (especially for those spending time outdoors or working with animals).

Malaria is present throughout much of Papua New Guinea, so antimalarial medication is often recommended. Dengue fever and other mosquito-borne diseases are also a concern, so travelers should use insect repellent and wear protective clothing.

It’s important to consult a travel health professional or clinic at least 4–6 weeks before your departure to ensure you receive the appropriate vaccinations and advice tailored to your itinerary. While vaccination is unrelated to driving, if you plan to explore the country by car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) may help streamline vehicle rental and roadside interactions.

Tourists can apply for a visa to Papua New Guinea through the country’s online eVisa platform. The process is available for citizens of many countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, and most EU nations. Applicants must provide personal identification details, travel plans, and a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of entry.

Typically, the tourist visa allows for a single entry and a stay of up to 60 days. Additional documents such as a return flight ticket, hotel booking, or proof of sufficient funds may be requested. The approval time may vary, but many applicants receive confirmation within a few days.

For travelers planning to drive while in Papua New Guinea, it’s recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your domestic license. This may be required by rental companies and is useful when passing through checkpoints.

As of this year, Papua New Guinea grants visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to citizens of a limited number of countries, mainly within the Pacific region. Travelers from countries with diplomatic or regional agreements, such as some members of the Melanesian Spearhead Group and other Pacific Island nations, may be eligible for visa exemptions or simplified entry processes.

However, for most travelers—including those from the United States, Canada, the UK, EU nations, and Australia—a visa is required prior to or upon arrival, depending on bilateral agreements and the traveler’s nationality. The eVisa system provides an efficient way to apply online before traveling.

If you are planning to drive while visiting Papua New Guinea, keep in mind that an International Driving Permit (IDP) may be useful in combination with your home license. This can support smoother travel when renting vehicles or encountering road checkpoints.