Central America travel guide
Driving in Panama with a foreign licence
IDP recommended
You can drive in Panama on a valid foreign licence; an IDP is recommended. Panama drives on the right and lets visitors use a valid foreign licence for up to 90 days; an IDP is advised for non-Latin-script holders.
The essentials
Drives onThe right
IDP neededRecommended
Minimum age18+
Convention1949 Geneva
On the road
Rules of the road in Panama
- Drive on the right.
- Heavy congestion in Panama City.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Corredor toll expressways in the capital.
At the rental desk
Panama City desks accept many licences; an IDP helps non-Latin scripts.
Common questions
01
Can I drive in Panama with a foreign licence?
Yes, visitors may drive on a valid foreign licence in Panama; carry an IDP if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet.
02
Which side of the road does Panama drive on?
Panama drives on the right.
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