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Cross-border route

Rwanda Uganda

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Rwanda 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. Important: Rwanda drives on the right and Uganda drives on the left, 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: Rwanda drives on the right, Uganda on the left.
Get my permit for Uganda Uganda requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromRwanda
ToUganda
IDP in UgandaRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideChanges (right → left)
Currency in UgandaUGX
Rwanda → Uganda

Crossing the border

Rwanda 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 Rwanda 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 Rwanda and Uganda?
Yes. Rwanda drives on the right and Uganda drives on the left. 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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