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Home/Kenya/to Ethiopia
Cross-border route

Kenya Ethiopia

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Kenya into Ethiopia, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Ethiopia expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the Local rules format. Important: Kenya drives on the left and Ethiopia drives on the right, so the side of the road changes at the border — take extra care. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.
⚠ Driving side changes at the border: Kenya drives on the left, Ethiopia on the right.
Get my permit for Ethiopia Ethiopia requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromKenya
ToEthiopia
IDP in EthiopiaRequired
Accepted formatLocal rules
Driving sideChanges (left → right)
Currency in EthiopiaETB
Kenya → Ethiopia

Crossing the border

Kenya and Ethiopia 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 Ethiopia

  • Drive on the right.
  • Watch for pedestrians and livestock.
  • Zero alcohol tolerance.
  • Carry passport, IDP and home licence.

What to see when you arrive in Ethiopia

  • the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela
  • the castles of Gondar
  • the Simien Mountains
  • the Danakil Depression
  • the obelisks of Axum

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Kenya to Ethiopia?
Yes — Ethiopia requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Ethiopia recognises the Local rules format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Kenya and Ethiopia?
Yes. Kenya drives on the left and Ethiopia drives on the right. Adjust carefully once you cross the border.
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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