Destinations / Botswana
Driving in Botswana as a visitor
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. Botswana accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
Standard delivery included. Need it sooner? Express lands by for $25 more.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What Botswana expects
| Permit needed | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1949 Geneva |
| Valid for | 1 year |
| Drives on the | Left |
| Emergency number | 999 (police), 997 (ambulance) |
| Top speed limit | 120 km/h highways |
What the rental desk will ask you for
| Your own licence | The original card. A photo of it, or a photocopy, gets turned away. |
|---|---|
| Licence translation | Not required by law. Worth having if your licence is not printed in Latin script. |
| Booklet format they know | 1949 Geneva |
| Minimum age | 18. Under 25 usually pays a young-driver surcharge. |
| Deposit | A credit card in the driver's name. The hold is taken in BWP. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Animals | Wildlife on roads, especially at night. |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | 0.08% alcohol limit. |
| Fuel | Long distances between fuel stops. |
On the road in Botswana
At the pump
Petrol and diesel are widely sold at attended (full-service) stations; self-service is uncommon. Stations are far apart on remote routes such as the Trans-Kalahari, so keep the tank above half, carry pula cash, and don't assume cards work at rural pumps.
After a crash
By law you must stop, not move the vehicles, and report any accident to the police; the emergency number is 999 (or 997 for ambulance). A police report is required for insurance and rental claims, and you should exchange details and photograph the scene before moving anything.
Sources: gov.bw · landrovingafrica.com · earthtrekkers.com · tyremap.com
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in Botswana?
Not legally, but it is worth carrying. Botswana accepts foreign licences, and a permit removes any argument at the rental counter or a roadside check.
Which IDP format does Botswana accept?
Botswana recognises the 1949 Geneva format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in Botswana ask for one?
An IDP is recommended for non-English licences; 4x4 essential for the Delta.
How fast can you get one?
Express orders are emailed within 5 minutes. The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay and the order is refundable for 30 days.