Cross-border route

Zambia Namibia

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Zambia 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. Plan your border crossing in advance and keep your passport, national licence and IDP together.

Get my permit for Namibia Namibia requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromZambia

ToNamibia

IDP in NamibiaRecommended

Accepted format1949 Geneva

Driving sideleft (no change)

Currency in NamibiaNAD

Zambia → Namibia

Crossing the border

Zambia and Namibia 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 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

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

Does the driving side change between Zambia and Namibia?

No. Both Zambia and Namibia drive on the left.

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.