Cross-border route
Colombia Brazil
Colombia 
BrazilDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Colombia into Brazil, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Brazil 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
FromColombia
ToBrazil
IDP in BrazilRequired
Accepted format1968 Vienna
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in BrazilBRL
Colombia → Brazil
Crossing the border
Colombia and Brazil 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 Brazil
- Headlights on during the day on highways.
- Zero-tolerance alcohol law (Lei Seca).
- Carry original licence + IDP — photocopies not accepted.
- Radar speed enforcement is widespread.
What to see when you arrive in Brazil
- Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro
- Copacabana and Ipanema beaches
- the Iguaçu Falls
- the Amazon rainforest
- the historic streets of Salvador
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Colombia to Brazil?
Yes — Brazil requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Brazil recognises the 1968 Vienna format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Colombia and Brazil?
No. Both Colombia and Brazil 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.
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