Destinations / Chad
Driving in Chad as a visitor
Often required, depending on where your licence was issued. Chad drives on the right; an IDP is recommended with your home licence, and desert routes require a sturdy 4x4 and supplies.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What Chad expects
| Driving document | Depends on licence issuer, script and rental policy |
|---|---|
| Convention format | 1949 Geneva |
| Valid for | 1 year |
| Drives on the | Right |
| Emergency number | 17 (police) |
| Top speed limit | 90 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 XAF. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Roads | Sandy, unpaved desert roads. |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | 0.08% alcohol limit. |
| Documents | Carry passport, IDP and home licence. |
On the road in Chad
At the pump
Fuel is sold in CFA francs (XAF) by attendants and is not always available even in major cities, becoming very scarce in rural and desert areas, so always carry extra jerrycans. Payment is cash only and stations are sparse outside N'Djamena.
After a crash
Call police on 17 (general emergency 112 may route to local services); secure a police report for insurance and do not leave the scene. Contact your embassy, as medical and vehicle-recovery services are very limited.
Sources: tyremap.com · travel.gc.ca · internationaldriversassociation.com · en.wikipedia.org
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in Chad?
Often required, depending on where your licence was issued. Chad drives on the right; an IDP is recommended with your home licence, and desert routes require a sturdy 4x4 and supplies.
Which translation format is used for Chad?
Chad 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 Chad ask for a translation?
N'Djamena desks request an IDP; 4x4 essential outside the capital.
How fast can Vialy prepare one for Chad?
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.