Cross-border route

Zambia Tanzania

Driving across the border

Yes — you can drive from Zambia into Tanzania, and you should carry an International Driving Permit alongside your national licence. Tanzania expects foreign drivers to hold an IDP, 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 Tanzania Tanzania requirements

Last reviewed June 2026

Route at a glance

FromZambia

ToTanzania

IDP in TanzaniaRequired

Accepted format1949 Geneva

Driving sideleft (no change)

Currency in TanzaniaTZS

Zambia → Tanzania

Crossing the border

Zambia and Tanzania 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 Tanzania

Drive on the left.
Wildlife and pedestrians on roads.
0.08% alcohol limit.
Police speed checks are routine.

What to see when you arrive in Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro
the Serengeti National Park
the Ngorongoro Crater
the spice island of Zanzibar
the Selous Game Reserve

Common questions

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive from Zambia to Tanzania?

Yes — Tanzania requires foreign drivers to carry an IDP with their national licence. Tanzania recognises the 1949 Geneva format, which is what we issue.

Does the driving side change between Zambia and Tanzania?

No. Both Zambia and Tanzania 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.