Destinations / Myanmar
Driving in Myanmar as a visitor
Usually yes. Myanmar expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
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 Myanmar expects
| Permit needed | Expected |
|---|---|
| Convention format | Local rules |
| Valid for | Not recognised |
| Drives on the | Right |
| Emergency number | 199 (police), 192 (ambulance) |
| Top speed limit | 100 km/h on the Yangon–Naypyidaw expressway |
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 | Expected. Hand it over with the licence, never instead of it. |
| Booklet format they know | Local rules |
| 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 MMK. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Local practice | Drive on the right (despite right-hand-drive cars). |
|---|---|
| Local practice | Horns used frequently. |
| Alcohol | 0.05% alcohol limit. |
| Documents | Carry passport, IDP and home licence. |
On the road in Myanmar
At the pump
Petrol (Octane 92 and 95) and diesel are sold; supply and prices have been volatile, with periodic shortages and queues. Stations are attended; carry kyat cash as card acceptance is rare and fuel rationing can occur.
After a crash
Dial 199 for police and 192 for ambulance. Report any accident to the police and do not move the vehicles after an injury collision; with a hired driver, let them and the rental company manage the report and insurance.
Sources: idaservice.org · internationaltravelpermits.com · oricacars.com · travelauthenticasia.com
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in Myanmar?
Usually yes. Myanmar expects visiting drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national licence, and rental desks ask for one. It matters most when your licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet.
Which IDP format does Myanmar accept?
Myanmar recognises the Local rules format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in Myanmar ask for one?
Self-drive is restricted for tourists; chauffeured hire is the norm.
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.