Cross-border route

Sudan Ethiopia

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Sudan 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. Both countries drive on the right, 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 Ethiopia Ethiopia requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromSudan

ToEthiopia

IDP in EthiopiaRequired

Accepted formatLocal rules

Driving sideright (no change)

Currency in EthiopiaETB

Sudan → Ethiopia

Crossing the border

Sudan 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

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Sudan 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.

Does the driving side change between Sudan and Ethiopia?

No. Both Sudan and Ethiopia drive on the right.

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.