Cross-border route
Honduras Nicaragua
Honduras 
NicaraguaDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Honduras into Nicaragua, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. An IDP is recommended in Nicaragua and required if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet, 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.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromHonduras
ToNicaragua
IDP in NicaraguaRecommended
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in NicaraguaNIO
Honduras → Nicaragua
Crossing the border
Honduras and Nicaragua 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 Nicaragua
- Drive on the right.
- Avoid night driving on rural roads.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Watch for carts and livestock.
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Honduras to Nicaragua?
An IDP is strongly recommended for Nicaragua and required if your national licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet. Nicaragua recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Honduras and Nicaragua?
No. Both Honduras and Nicaragua 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.