Cabo Verde

Do you need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Cabo Verde?

Yes — especially for tourists and foreign visitors — obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended if you plan to drive anywhere in Cabo Verde, including Praia, Mindelo, or Sal Island.

This essential document, issued by IDPA, ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience when renting cars or passing through checkpoints. Cabo Verde follows the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic, which means any IDPA-issued International Driving Permit that complies with the Geneva format is legally recognized across the islands.

Why an International Driving Permit (IDP) matters in Cabo Verde

Driving in Cabo Verde is one of the best ways to explore the country’s dramatic coastlines, volcanic mountains, and charming colonial towns. However, traffic officers may not speak your language — and your domestic license may not be easily understood.

An IDPA International Driving Permit translates your license details into multiple languages, helping authorities quickly verify your credentials. It also makes renting a car easier, since most car rental companies in Cabo Verde require a valid IDP alongside your original driver’s license.

Recognition of the International Driving Permit in Cabo Verde

Cabo Verde recognizes the International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. If your IDPA-issued IDP follows this format, it’s valid throughout the islands and in other Convention countries such as Japan.

Your IDP acts as an official translation and identification document, helping you rent vehicles, cross islands, and interact smoothly with local authorities.

Driving and travel guidelines for visitors in Cabo Verde

• Always carry your original driver’s license, passport, and IDPA International Driving Permit while driving.
  
  
• Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  
  
• Seatbelts are mandatory for both driver and passengers.
  
  
• Avoid driving at night — some roads are unlit or narrow.
  
  
• Maintain a valid insurance policy and keep vehicle registration papers with you.
  
  
• Refuel whenever possible; fuel stations are sparse on some islands.
  
  

Car rental in Cabo Verde

Car rental services are available on most major islands such as Santiago, Sal, Boa Vista, and São Vicente. To rent a car, you typically need:

• A valid International Driving Permit (IDP)
  
  
• Your domestic driver’s license
  
  
• A passport or national ID
  
  
• A credit or debit card for payment
  
  

An IDPA-issued IDP is particularly useful if your home license uses a non-Roman alphabet (for example, Arabic, Cyrillic, or Chinese), since it provides certified translations recognized by local authorities and rental agencies.

Explore Cabo Verde confidently with IDPA

Whether you’re cruising the coastal roads of Sal Island, exploring the cobbled streets of Praia, or climbing the volcanic peaks of Fogo, an International Driving Permit (IDP) from IDPA lets you drive legally and confidently across Cabo Verde.

Apply online today to receive your PDI digital within minutes and have your printed IDP delivered anywhere in the world. Travel freely, drive safely, and experience the beauty of Cabo Verde with the assurance of IDPA.