Does Budget require an IDP in Mali?
Budget in Mali: the policy in plain terms
Requires an IDP when your licence is not in the Roman alphabet. Value rental brand operating in 120+ countries.
Mali drives on the right; an IDP is recommended with your home licence, and desert routes need a well-equipped 4x4.
In Mali specifically, mali legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Budget will ask for it at the counter. Bamako desks request an IDP; 4x4 essential outside cities.
Budget runs a global network; at its Mali desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Mali drives on the right, uses the XOF, and sets a minimum driving age of 18, so an IDP is the document that removes any doubt at the counter.
What to bring to the Budget counter in Mali
- Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
- Your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format.
- Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
- Local payment for the XOF deposit; Mali drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.
Driving rules in Mali Budget renters should know
- Drive on the right.
- Sandy, remote desert roads.
- 0.08% alcohol limit.
- Carry passport, IDP and home licence.