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Cross-border route

Tanzania Rwanda

Driving across the border
Yes — you can drive from Tanzania into Rwanda, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Rwanda expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, in the 1949 Geneva format. Important: Tanzania drives on the left and Rwanda drives on the right, 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: Tanzania drives on the left, Rwanda on the right.
Get my permit for Rwanda Rwanda requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance
FromTanzania
ToRwanda
IDP in RwandaRequired
Accepted format1949 Geneva
Driving sideChanges (left → right)
Currency in RwandaRWF
Tanzania → Rwanda

Crossing the border

Tanzania and Rwanda 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 Rwanda

  • Drive on the right.
  • Winding hill roads — watch for motorbike taxis.
  • 0.08% alcohol limit.
  • Monthly car-free 'Umuganda' restrictions in Kigali.

What to see when you arrive in Rwanda

  • the mountain gorillas of Volcanoes National Park
  • the capital Kigali and its Genocide Memorial
  • Lake Kivu
  • the Nyungwe rainforest
  • the Akagera safari park

Common questions

01
Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Tanzania to Rwanda?
Yes — Rwanda requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Rwanda recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.
02
Does the driving side change between Tanzania and Rwanda?
Yes. Tanzania drives on the left and Rwanda drives on the right. 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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