How to Apply for an International Driving Permit to Drive in Uganda

If you're planning to drive during your visit to Uganda, securing an International Driving Permit (IDP) is crucial for complying with local driving regulations. The International Driving Authority provides IDPs that translate your home country's driver's license into multiple languages, confirming your authorization to drive internationally.

Steps to Secure Your IDP:

1- Online Application Process:

Visit our website and click on the “Start My Application” button. Our application process is streamlined and designed to prepare you for driving not only in Uganda but also in other international destinations.

Required Documents:

• A valid driver's license.
• A recent passport-style photograph.

Eligibility Requirements:

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license from their country of residence.

2- Local Application Option:

While you can apply for an IDP at local licensing offices in Uganda, our online service offers a quicker and more convenient solution, providing your digital IDP soon after application.

The online application takes about 5 minutes to complete, and you will receive your digital IDP almost immediately.

Driving Rules in Uganda

Follow These Guidelines for Safe Driving:

Speed Limits: The speed limit in urban areas is typically 50 km/h, while on highways it can be up to 100 km/h.

Alcohol Limits: Uganda enforces a strict alcohol limit for drivers, with a legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.08%.

Right of Way: Drivers must yield to the right at intersections and give way to vehicles already in the roundabout.

Seatbelt Laws: It is mandatory for all passengers and the driver to wear seatbelts.

Tips for Navigating Roads in Uganda:

Road Quality: Major roads are generally in good condition, but rural and unpaved roads can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.

Be Cautious: Watch out for motorcycles, often called “boda-bodas,” which are prevalent and sometimes drive unpredictably.

Avoid Night Driving: Limited street lighting and increased risks from wildlife and pedestrians make night driving advisable to avoid.

Checkpoints: Security checkpoints are common. Always have your IDP and other identification documents ready for inspection.

Explore Uganda’s Rich Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Kampala: Explore Uganda’s vibrant capital, known for its hills covered with red-tile villas and tree-lined avenues.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Known for gorilla trekking, this park offers one of the most unique wildlife experiences in the world.

Murchison Falls National Park: Visit Uganda’s largest national park, where the Nile river explodes through a narrow gorge and cascades down to become a placid river.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Famous for its diverse ecosystems, including savanna, forests, lakes, and wetlands, and home to an incredible variety of wildlife.

International Driving Permit Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to obtain an IDP? Via internationaldrivingauthority.com, it typically takes less than 7-10 days for a printed IDP and only 5 minutes for a digital copy. Locally, the process can take 5 – 7 weeks.

How long is an IDP valid? IDPs are valid for 1-3 years, depending on the convention under which they were issued. We offer options for extended validity up to 3 years.

What if I am stopped by police and don’t have an IDP? You risk fines or legal issues for driving without an IDP in countries where it’s required, especially if you cannot communicate effectively in the local language.

What should I do if my IDP has an error? Contact us for a free replacement if there’s an error. If issued locally, you may need to pay a fee for corrections.

Is the IDP renewable in the event of loss or theft? Yes, it can be easily renewed by logging into your account and requesting a new one.

What countries require an IDP? Our IDP is valid in many popular destinations including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, Australia, and Canada.

Start Your Application Today!

Prepare for your adventure in Uganda by securing your International Driving Permit. Click “Start My Application” to handle the necessary paperwork quickly. Whether you’re exploring the dynamic streets of Kampala, trekking through Bwindi for a close encounter with gorillas, or cruising the Nile at Murchison Falls, ensure you are fully prepared and legally compliant. Apply today and drive with confidence across Uganda!