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Thrifty · Ethiopia

Does Thrifty require an IDP in Ethiopia?

Yes, bring one
Ethiopia 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 Ethiopia All Thrifty requirements
Thrifty in Ethiopia
Thrifty IDP policyRequired for foreign drivers
Thrifty footprintGlobal
Accepted formatLocal rules
Minimum rental age18+ (surcharge under 25)
Drives on theRight

Thrifty in Ethiopia: 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.

Ethiopia drives on the right; an IDP is recommended with your home licence, though Addis Ababa traffic and rural roads lead many to hire drivers.

In Ethiopia specifically, ethiopia legally requires foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit with their national licence, so Thrifty will ask for it at the counter. Self-drive desks require an IDP; chauffeured hire is common.

Thrifty runs a global network; at its Ethiopia desks, foreign renters are asked for the Local rules-format International Driving Permit alongside the original licence. Ethiopia drives on the right, uses the ETB, 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 Ethiopia

  • Your original national driving licence (the IDP never replaces it).
  • Your International Driving Permit in the Local rules format.
  • Your passport and a payment card in the main driver's name.
  • Local payment for the ETB deposit; Ethiopia drives on the right with a young-driver surcharge under 25.

Driving rules in Ethiopia Thrifty renters should know

  • Drive on the right.
  • Watch for pedestrians and livestock.
  • Zero alcohol tolerance.
  • Carry passport, IDP and home licence.

Common questions

01
Do I need an IDP to rent from Thrifty in Ethiopia?
Ethiopia 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 Ethiopia?
Bring your original national driving licence, your International Driving Permit in the Local rules format, your passport, and the payment card in the main driver's name. Ethiopia 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 Ethiopia