Is an International Driving Permit (IDP) required in Liberia

Preparing to travel to a foreign country requires careful planning, especially if you intend to rent a car and explore the unfamiliar area on your own. Liberia, in particular, requires foreign drivers to have an International Driver's Permit (IDP) for added convenience and adaptability when traveling.

To enjoy unrestricted driving privileges in Liberia, you must have a valid driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP). As an IDP, you are given the right to drive in Liberia for 12 months, starting from the date you enter the country. After this period, obtaining a local Liberian driver's license becomes mandatory.

Failure to have an IDP may result in fines imposed by the Liberian traffic authorities.

Traffic rules in Liberia

In Liberia, standard practice is to drive on the right side of the road and cars are left-hand drive.

Typically, to rent a car in Liberia, you must meet certain age and driving experience requirements. Many rental agencies set the minimum age at 21, although some may raise the age requirement to 25 and require at least 2 years of driving experience.

When driving on the roads of Liberia, it is important to ensure that the vehicle you are driving is equipped with the necessary safety equipment, such as a high visibility jacket, a warning triangle and a first aid kit. These items will be indispensable if your car breaks down or gets into a traffic accident.

Liberia may also set up roadblocks, and in such cases it is critical to be prepared to provide identification and cooperate with law enforcement during inspections.

Speed limits in Liberia for passenger cars are 60 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on highways and 100 km/h on motorways.

Mandatory documents that must be presented when driving a vehicle in Liberia include:

• Identification
• International driving license
• Valid driver's license
• Passport (if you are a foreigner)