Cross-border route
South Africa Namibia
Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from South Africa into Namibia, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. An IDP is recommended in Namibia and required if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet, in the 1949 Geneva format. Both countries drive on the left, so there is no change of driving side at the border. The Vioolsdrif–Noordoewer crossing over the Orange River links the N7 toward Windhoek.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromSouth Africa
ToNamibia
IDP in NamibiaRecommended
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideleft (no change)
Currency in NamibiaNAD
South Africa → Namibia
Crossing the border
The Vioolsdrif–Noordoewer crossing over the Orange River links the N7 toward Windhoek.
Driving rules in Namibia
- Drive on the left.
- Gravel roads — reduce speed and watch tyres.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Long distances between fuel stops.
What to see when you arrive in Namibia
- the dunes of Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert
- the Etosha National Park
- the Fish River Canyon
- the German colonial town of Swakopmund
- the Skeleton Coast
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from South Africa to Namibia?
An IDP is strongly recommended for Namibia and required if your national licence is not printed in the Roman alphabet. Namibia recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between South Africa and Namibia?
No. Both South Africa and Namibia 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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