Cross-border route

Cambodia Laos

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Cambodia into Laos, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Laos expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Local rules 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.

Get my permit for Laos Laos requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromCambodia

ToLaos

IDP in LaosRequired

Accepted formatLocal rules

Driving sideright (no change)

Currency in LaosLAK

Cambodia → Laos

Crossing the border

Cambodia and Laos 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 Laos

Drive on the right.
Helmets mandatory for motorbikes.
0.05% alcohol limit.
Livestock and pedestrians on rural roads.

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Cambodia to Laos?

Yes — Laos requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Laos recognises the Local rules format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between Cambodia and Laos?

No. Both Cambodia and Laos drive on the right.

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.

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