Cross-border route
Ecuador Colombia
Ecuador 
ColombiaDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Ecuador 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. The Rumichaca Bridge at Ipiales links Colombia with Tulcán in Ecuador.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromEcuador
ToColombia
IDP in ColombiaRequired
Accepted format1968 Vienna
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in ColombiaCOP
Ecuador → Colombia
Crossing the border
The Rumichaca Bridge at Ipiales links Colombia with Tulcán in Ecuador.
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 Ecuador 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 Ecuador and Colombia?
No. Both Ecuador 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.
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