South America travel guide
Driving in Ecuador with a foreign licence
Bring an IDP
Rental desks and local authorities in Ecuador commonly ask foreign drivers to carry an IDP alongside their national licence. Ecuador drives on the right and signs the 1968 Vienna Convention; an IDP is advised with your licence for Andean and coastal driving.
The essentials
Drives onThe right
IDPStrongly recommended
Minimum age18+
Convention1968 Vienna
On the road
Rules of the road in Ecuador
- Drive on the right.
- Pico y placa plate restrictions in Quito.
- 0.03% alcohol limit.
- Steep Andean roads with switchbacks.
At the rental desk
Quito and Guayaquil desks request an IDP for non-Latin-script licences.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in Ecuador with a foreign licence?
Yes, with your national licence plus an International Driving Permit, which Ecuador requires for foreign drivers.
02
Which side of the road does Ecuador drive on?
Ecuador drives on the right.
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