立即在线申请

Is an International Driving Permit required for driving in the Solomon Islands?

While it is not mandatory to have an International Driving Permit (IDP) for the Solomon Islands, it is highly recommended by many tourists if you plan to drive a vehicle from a local car rental company in this exotic country.

An IDP is not a standalone document; it is rather a supplementary document to support your identification, especially your valid driver’s license, particularly if you have difficulty with the local language or if your driver’s license is not in English.

Our International Driving Permit is recognized in over 165 countries, including the following:

• Papua New Guinea
• Vanuatu
• Fiji
• Brazil
• United Kingdom
• South Africa
• Philippines
• and more.

How do I obtain an International Driving Permit for the Solomon Islands?

If you plan to drive on the main roads of the Solomon Islands, an IDP is recommended to support your valid driver’s license when driving a vehicle in another country.

Follow the steps below to successfully apply for your IDP:

• Click on the ‘Start my Application’ button somewhere on the page.
• Read the instructions on the next page before starting the process, which takes about three minutes or less.
• Ensure you have your valid driver’s license, passport photos, phone number, and other required documents ready.
• Verify that all provided information is correct before clicking “Next.”
• Fill in all the details as shown on your driver’s license and proceed to the next page.
• Ensure all details are correct.
• Select the classes for your license.
• Upload a copy of your valid driver’s license and passport photos.
• Ensure your passport photo is looking directly into the camera.
• Next, enter the payment details to pay the fees.
• You will receive email updates on the progress of your order.

Tourists staying in the country for less than three months can drive with just an IDP, as agreed upon in the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic by the United Nations. However, if you plan to stay longer in the country and drive, you must provide additional documents, including a local driver’s license from the Solomon Islands.

Popular Destinations in the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands offer tourists an engaging mix of history and pristine nature. With majestic lagoons, unspoiled beaches, lush tropical forests, and waterfalls, outdoor adventure awaits to be discovered. The country also hosts war wrecks and an abundance of marine biodiversity, making it one of the world’s top diving locations. Escape the digital world and explore the untouched beauty of the Solomon Islands.

Diving in Munda

The Solomon Islands are considered one of the last jewels in the South Pacific. Dive Munda is a renowned dive site dedicated to sustainable ecotourism. The focus is on promoting the island’s natural beauty and preserving the pristine marine ecosystem. Many tourists are drawn back for diving experiences with experienced dive instructors. It is advisable to visit between December and February.

Relax on the sandy beach and enjoy the stunning coastal views. Take morning or afternoon diving trips with professional instructors. Cave diving is a must at Dive Munda, where you start in a tunnel in the jungle and emerge into the ocean. Explore the majestic coral reefs and admire the diverse marine fauna, including turtles, dolphins, and dugongs.

National Museum of the Solomon Islands

For a cultural experience and insight into the history of the Solomon Islands, the National Museum of the Solomon Islands is a must-visit. Friendly staff will guide you through the museum, showcasing old photos, ornaments, weapons, and archaeological finds.

While the museum is modest in size compared to Western museums, it has a gift shop with local handicrafts. Purchase souvenirs to share your experiences and support local tourism. The museum is open on weekdays from 9:00 to 16:00 and on Saturdays from 10:00 to 14:00.

Honiara Botanical Gardens

Discover the natural beauty of Honiara at the Rove Botanical Gardens. Explore the colorful flora and walk along forest paths leading to remnants of important locations from World War II. The orchid house houses rare orchids found only in the Solomon Islands.

Visit the hangout spot, which once served as an execution site, and enjoy the new picnic area for a relaxing lunch. The best time to visit is between May and October to admire the blooming flowers.

Bloody Ridge

Bloody Ridge, also known as Edson’s Ridge, commemorates a bloody battle during World War II in which thousands of lives were lost. A national park now hosts a monument symbolizing peace and unity amidst the historical significance of the place.

Enjoy views of Mount Austen and the surrounding landscapes, while some come here for personal reflection and tranquility.

Mbonege Beach

Divers and snorkel enthusiasts will appreciate Mbonege Beach in Honiara as a paradise to explore. Discover the Japanese wrecks Bonegi I and Bonegi II, sunk off the coast in 1942, amidst colorful coral reefs and an abundance of underwater life.

Explore the wrecks and reef under the guidance of expert instructors and discover a variety of marine species. The best time to visit is between June and September.

Guadalcanal American Memorial

The Guadalcanal American Memorial offers a panoramic view of Honiara from Skyline Ridge. The monument commemorates those who sacrificed their lives for the liberation of the Solomon Islands and is informative for visitors.

Visitors come here to learn more about the historical impact of the battles and to enjoy the view from the 24-meter-high tower.

Essential Driving Rules in the Solomon Islands

Exploring a new country can be exciting, but it is crucial to be aware of and adhere to the driving rules of that country, especially in the Solomon Islands where road conditions and rules may differ from what you are accustomed to. Understanding the driving rules is essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Driving under the influence is punishable

Driving under the influence is a serious offense according to the traffic law in the Solomon Islands. The allowed blood alcohol concentration is 0.08%, and drivers must not exceed the legal limit. Police have the authority to arrest drivers under the influence of alcohol and impound vehicles, with additional penalties.

It is important for motorists to handle alcohol consumption responsibly and avoid driving under the influence, as it can cost lives and have criminal consequences.

Maximum Speed Limit

Speeding is a major cause of traffic accidents in the Solomon Islands. It is crucial to respect the indicated speed limits, especially since the road infrastructure is not yet optimal.

Within cities, the maximum speed limit is 40 km/h, outside cities it is 60 km/h. When approaching schools or pedestrians, always slow down. Violations can result in fines or imprisonment, especially for reckless driving leading to fatal outcomes.