Cross-border route
Syria Lebanon
Syria 
LebanonDriving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Syria into Lebanon, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Lebanon expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva 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.
Last reviewed June 2026
Route at a glance
FromSyria
ToLebanon
IDP in LebanonRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideright (no change)
Currency in LebanonLBP
Syria → Lebanon
Crossing the border
Syria and Lebanon 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 Lebanon
- Drive on the right.
- Seatbelts mandatory.
- 0.05% alcohol limit.
- Drive defensively in dense city traffic.
What to see when you arrive in Lebanon
- the Roman temples of Baalbek
- the Jeita Grotto
- the Byblos ancient port
- the cedars of Bsharri
- Beirut's Corniche
Common questions
01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Syria to Lebanon?
Yes — Lebanon requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Lebanon recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Syria and Lebanon?
No. Both Syria and Lebanon drive on the right.
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.
100% money-back guarantee
Full refund if your permit is ever declined.
Unlimited replacements
Lost or damaged? Re-download or reprint, free.
24/7 support
Help before and during your trip, any hour.