UK licence Botswana

Driving in Botswana with a UK license

Short answer: you can drive in Botswana with a UK license; an International Driving Permit is recommended and is carried alongside your UK license.

IDP recommended

An International Driving Permit is recommended (not strictly required) for UK licence holders driving in Botswana. Your UK licence is in the Roman alphabet, but an IDP removes any doubt at rental desks and roadside checks. Carry both.

Convention basisBotswana uses the format of the 1949 Geneva Convention. Our certified translation is prepared in that exact format.

At the rental deskAn IDP is recommended for non-English licences; 4x4 essential for the Delta.

CarryCarry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.

Minimum age18+ to drive; rental typically 21+ with a young-driver surcharge under 25

Validity1–3 years (you choose at checkout)

FormatDigital PDF you print yourself, plus a QR-verifiable ID card — accepted alongside printed permits

Last verified June 2026Convention: 1949 Geneva

Get my IDP for Botswana Full Botswana guide

UK drivers should carry an International Driving Permit with their licence; some countries recognise the 1949 version and others the 1968 version. Your International Driving Permit is a certified multilingual translation of your existing licence, prepared in the 1949 Geneva format and carried alongside your national licence.

Driving rules in Botswana

Drive on the left.
Wildlife on roads, especially at night.
0.08% alcohol limit.
Long distances between fuel stops.

Common questions

Can I drive in Botswana with a UK license?

you can drive in Botswana with a UK license; an International Driving Permit is recommended and is carried alongside your UK license. Botswana uses the format of the 1949 Geneva Convention. Our certified translation is prepared in that exact format.

Is my UK driver's license valid in Botswana?

Do I need an International Driving Permit for Botswana?

Can I rent a car in Botswana with a UK license?

An IDP is recommended for non-English licences; 4x4 essential for the Delta.

What IDP format does Botswana accept?

Botswana uses the format of the 1949 Geneva Convention. Our certified translation is prepared in that exact format.

How do I get an International Driving Permit for Botswana?

An International Driving Permit is a certified multilingual translation of your existing UK license. You apply online, and it is issued as a printable PDF booklet with a QR-verifiable ID card in the 1949 Geneva format Botswana uses — carried alongside your UK license.

Do I still carry my UK license?

Carry BOTH your UK national licence and the IDP at all times. The IDP is a translation of your licence and never replaces it.