Cross-border route
Brazil Colombia
Brazil 
ColombiaDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Brazil into Colombia, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Colombia expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1968 Vienna format. Both countries drive on the right, so there is no change of driving side at the border. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromBrazil
ToColombia
IDP in ColombiaRequired
Accepted format1968 Vienna
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in ColombiaCOP
Brazil → Colombia
Crossing the border
Brazil and Colombia share a land border you can cross by car. Keep your passport, national driving licence and International Driving Permit together, and check opening hours and any toll or vignette requirements before you travel.
Driving rules in Colombia
- Pico y placa restricts driving by plate number on set days.
- 0.02% alcohol limit, strictly enforced.
- Headlights on outside urban areas.
- Toll roads (peajes) are common.
What to see when you arrive in Colombia
- the walled old town of Cartagena
- the coffee region around Salento
- Bogotá's La Candelaria and Monserrate
- Tayrona National Park
- the Caño Cristales river
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Brazil to Colombia?
Yes — Colombia requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Colombia recognises the 1968 Vienna format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Brazil and Colombia?
No. Both Brazil and Colombia drive on the right.
03
How quickly can I get an IDP for this trip?
International Driver Licence issues your digital IDP in as fast as 8 minutes, so you can have it ready before you set off.
100% money-back guarantee
Full refund if your permit is ever declined.
Unlimited replacements
Lost or damaged? Re-download or reprint, free.
24/7 support
Help before and during your trip, any hour.