Cross-border route

Namibia Zambia

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Namibia into Zambia, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Zambia expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1968 Vienna 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.

Get my permit for Zambia Zambia requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromNamibia

ToZambia

IDP in ZambiaRequired

Accepted format1968 Vienna

Driving sideleft (no change)

Currency in ZambiaZMW

Namibia → Zambia

Crossing the border

Namibia and Zambia 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 Zambia

Drive on the left.
Reflective triangles required for breakdowns.
0.08% alcohol limit.
Long distances between fuel stops.

What to see when you arrive in Zambia

Victoria Falls at Livingstone
the South Luangwa National Park
the Lower Zambezi National Park
Lake Kariba
the Devil's Pool

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Namibia to Zambia?

Yes — Zambia requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Zambia recognises the 1968 Vienna format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between Namibia and Zambia?

No. Both Namibia and Zambia drive on the left.

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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