Destinations / Sao Tome and Principe
Driving in Sao Tome and Principe as a visitor
Often required, depending on where your licence was issued. São Tomé and Príncipe drive on the right; an IDP is recommended with your home licence on these small equatorial islands.
Reviewed July 2026 · A translation of your own licence, carried with it. Not a government permit.
What Sao Tome and Principe expects
| Driving document | Depends on licence issuer, script and rental policy |
|---|---|
| Convention format | Local rules |
| Valid for | Not recognised |
| Drives on the | Right |
| Emergency number | 112 |
| Top speed limit | 60 km/h open roads |
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 | 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 STN. |
Rules that catch visitors out
| Roads | Narrow, hilly island roads. |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | 0.05% alcohol limit. |
| Documents | Carry passport, IDP and home licence. |
On the road in Sao Tome and Principe
At the pump
Petrol and diesel are sold at attended stations concentrated in Sao Tome city and a few main towns; fill up before heading to remote or unpaved areas, and expect cash payment as card acceptance is very limited.
After a crash
Stop and remain at the scene, call the police (dial 112 in Sao Tome), and obtain a police report for any insurance or rental claim before vehicles are moved where possible.
Sources: travel.state.gov · idaoffice.org · traveldocsonline.com · idp-usa.com
Common questions
Do you need an International Driving Permit in Sao Tome and Principe?
Often required, depending on where your licence was issued. São Tomé and Príncipe drive on the right; an IDP is recommended with your home licence on these small equatorial islands.
Which translation format is used for Sao Tome and Principe?
Sao Tome and Principe uses the Local rules convention format. A Vialy translation is prepared in that format but is not a government-issued permit.
Will a rental desk in Sao Tome and Principe ask for a translation?
Limited island rental; an IDP and passport advised.
How fast can Vialy prepare one for Sao Tome and Principe?
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.