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National · Botswana

Does National require an IDP in Botswana?

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Botswana lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
Get my permit for Botswana All National requirements
National in Botswana
National IDP policyRequired for non-Roman-alphabet licences
National footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theLeft

National in Botswana: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.

Botswana drives on the left; visitors can use an English licence, with an IDP advised for non-English licences and self-drive safaris.

In Botswana specifically, botswana lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter. An IDP is recommended for non-English licences; 4x4 essential for the Delta.

National runs a global network; at its Botswana desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Botswana drives on the left, uses the BWP, and sets a minimum driving age of 18; an IDP is still the safest way to avoid a refused booking.

What to bring to the National counter in Botswana

  • 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 BWP deposit; Botswana drives on the left with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Botswana National renters should know

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

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from National in Botswana?
Botswana lets visitors drive on a valid foreign licence, but National still requires an IDP if your licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet — and it removes any doubt at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the National desk in Botswana?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the 1949 Geneva format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Botswana drives on the left and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is National's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP for non-Latin-alphabet licences and where local regulations require it. Business-traveller brand known for Emerald Aisle.
All National countriesDriving in Botswana