Can I drive in Zambia with a UK licence? Do I need an international driving permit?
It depends on how long you stay. GOV.UK says: “You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Zambia for up to 90 days.” “If you plan to stay in Zambia for more than 90 days, you’ll need to have the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) or a Zambian driving licence.” (FCDO travel advice for Zambia, GOV.UK, checked on 28 October 2026).
Rules change, and car hire companies can ask for more than the law. We quote the official travel advice word for word, with its date; this is information, not legal advice. If you are unsure, ask the embassy of the country you are visiting, your car hire company or your travel insurer before you travel.
What the official source says
FCDO travel advice for Zambia: “Transport risks”
You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Zambia for up to 90 days. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence. If you plan to stay in Zambia for more than 90 days, you’ll need to have the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) or a Zambian driving licence.
Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP.
Source: FCDO travel advice: Zambia travel advice, page updated 1 June 2026, checked on 28 October 2026. Quoted word for word; we show only the sentences about driving licences and permits.
What to bring and where to get an IDP
GOV.UK says:
You can get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint.
An IDP costs £5.50.
A 1926 or 1949 permit lasts for 12 months. A 1968 permit lasts for 3 years or until your UK driving licence expires, whichever comes first.
You must always have your driving licence with you, as well as your IDP.
Source: GOV.UK, Get an international driving permit (IDP) and Check if you need an IDP, checked on 28 October 2026.
Hire a car in Zambia
Hiring a car in Zambia? Compare rental companies and prices on DiscoverCars. Check the licence and IDP rules above before you book: the rental desk can refuse your booking without the right permit.
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Other licences in Zambia
| Licence | In Zambia | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Canadian licence | It depends | 28 October 2026 |
| Australian licence | IDP needed | 17 October 2026 |
Before you travel to Zambia
- British passport: Zambia entry requirements
- Canadian passport: Zambia
- Australian passport: Zambia
- Italian citizens: Zambia
Questions
Do I need an international driving permit for Zambia with a UK photocard driving licence?
It depends on how long you stay. GOV.UK says: “You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Zambia for up to 90 days.” “If you plan to stay in Zambia for more than 90 days, you’ll need to have the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) or a Zambian driving licence.” (FCDO travel advice for Zambia, GOV.UK, checked on 28 October 2026).
Can I drive in Zambia with my UK licence?
GOV.UK says: “You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Zambia for up to 90 days.” “If you plan to stay in Zambia for more than 90 days, you’ll need to have the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) or a Zambian driving licence.”
Which international driving permit do I need for Zambia?
GOV.UK's international driving permit table does not list Zambia. GOV.UK says: “If the country you’re visiting is not included in the table, check with the embassy of the country you’re travelling to.”
Where do I get an international driving permit in the UK?
GOV.UK says: “You can get an IDP in person from certain shops that have PayPoint.” “An IDP costs £5.50.”
Where does this answer come from?
From the official travel advice of GOV.UK, read on 28 October 2026 and quoted word for word on this page. It is information, not legal advice.
Spotted a change? Tell us. Every country for a UK licence · Driving abroad: all licences.