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Home/Democratic Republic of the Congo/to Rwanda
Cross-border route

Democratic Republic of the Congo Rwanda

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Democratic Republic of the Congo into Rwanda, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Rwanda expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva 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 Rwanda Rwanda requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromDemocratic Republic of the Congo
ToRwanda
IDP in RwandaRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in RwandaRWF
Democratic Republic of the Congo → Rwanda

Crossing the border

Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda 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 Rwanda

  • Drive on the right.
  • Winding hill roads — watch for motorbike taxis.
  • 0.08% alcohol limit.
  • Monthly car-free 'Umuganda' restrictions in Kigali.

What to see when you arrive in Rwanda

  • the mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park
  • the capital Kigali and its Genocide Memorial
  • Lake Kivu
  • the Nyungwe rainforest
  • the Akagera safari park

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Democratic Republic of the Congo to Rwanda?
Yes — Rwanda requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Rwanda recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda?
No. Both Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda 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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