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Thrifty · Benin

Does Thrifty require an IDP in Benin?

Yes, bring one
Benin legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
Get my permit for Benin All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in Benin
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for foreign drivers
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

Thrifty in Benin: the policy in plain terms

Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.

Benin drives on the right; an IDP is recommended with your national licence, and motorbike taxis (zémidjans) dominate the roads.

In Benin specifically, benin legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Cotonou desks request an IDP for non-French licences.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its Benin desks, foreign renters are asked for the 1949 Geneva-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Benin 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 Thrifty counter in Benin

  • 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; Benin drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Benin Thrifty renters should know

  • Drive on the right.
  • Watch for swarms of motorbike taxis.
  • 0.05% alcohol limit.
  • Carry passport, IDP and home licence.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in Benin?
Benin legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter.
02
What documents should I bring to the Thrifty desk in Benin?
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. Benin drives on the right and the minimum rental age is typically 18+.
03
What is Thrifty's general policy on International Driving Permits?
Requires an IDP in select countries and for non-Roman-alphabet licences. Budget-friendly brand paired with Dollar in many markets.
All Thrifty countriesDriving in Benin