Africa travel guide
Driving in Malawi with a foreign licence
Bring an IDP
Rental desks and local authorities in Malawi commonly ask foreign drivers to carry an IDP alongside their national licence. Malawi drives on the left; an IDP is advised if your licence is not in English, and rural roads call for daytime travel.
The essentials
Drives onThe left
IDPStrongly recommended
Minimum age18+
Convention1949 Geneva
On the road
Rules of the road in Malawi
- Drive on the left.
- Avoid night driving on rural roads.
- 0.08% alcohol limit.
- Watch for pedestrians and cyclists.
At the rental desk
Lilongwe desks request an IDP for non-English licences.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in Malawi with a foreign licence?
Yes, with your national licence plus an International Driving Permit, which Malawi requires for foreign drivers.
02
Which side of the road does Malawi drive on?
Malawi drives on the left.
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