Destinations / Sao Tome and Principe
Driving in Sao Tome and Principe as a visitor
Usually yes. Sao Tome and Principe 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 Sao Tome and Principe expects
| Permit needed | Expected |
|---|---|
| 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 | 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 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?
Usually yes. Sao Tome and Principe 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 Sao Tome and Principe accept?
Sao Tome and Principe recognises the Local rules format. Your permit is prepared in that format.
Will a rental desk in Sao Tome and Principe ask for one?
Limited island rental; an IDP and passport advised.
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.