Destinations / Botswana
Driving in Botswana as a visitor
Often optional, depending on your licence and rental company. Botswana drives on the left; visitors can use an English licence, with an IDP advised for non-English licences and self-drive safaris.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What Botswana expects
| Driving document | Depends on licence issuer, script and rental policy |
|---|---|
| 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 | Check the desk policy for your issuing country and licence script. A translation accompanies the licence and never replaces an official permit. |
| 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?
Often optional, depending on your licence and rental company. Botswana drives on the left; visitors can use an English licence, with an IDP advised for non-English licences and self-drive safaris.
Which translation format is used for Botswana?
Botswana uses the 1949 Geneva convention format. A Vialy translation is prepared in that format but is not a government-issued permit.
Will a rental desk in Botswana ask for a translation?
An IDP is recommended for non-English licences; 4x4 essential for the Delta.
How fast can Vialy prepare one for Botswana?
The exact delivery moment is quoted before you pay, 30 minutes as standard and 5 with Express.
Also in Africa
Driving on to another country on the same trip? Each page states what that destination expects.