Cross-border route
Kenya Uganda
Kenya 
UgandaDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Kenya into Uganda, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Uganda expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva format. Both countries drive on the left, 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
FromKenya
ToUganda
IDP in UgandaRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideleft (no change)
Currency in UgandaUGX
Kenya → Uganda
Crossing the border
Kenya and Uganda 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 Uganda
- Drive on the left.
- Watch for boda-boda motorbikes.
- 0.08% alcohol limit.
- Carry passport, IDP and home licence.
What to see when you arrive in Uganda
- the mountain gorillas of Bwindi
- the source of the Nile at Jinja
- the Murchison Falls
- the Queen Elizabeth National Park
- the Rwenzori Mountains
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Kenya to Uganda?
Yes — Uganda requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Uganda recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Kenya and Uganda?
No. Both Kenya and Uganda drive on the left.
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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