International Driver's License for Burkina Faso
-
Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
-
Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
-
Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
-
Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in Burkina Faso?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Burkina Faso depends on who you are and how long you are staying.
Last updated:
| Driver type | IDP needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist or short-term visitor | Recommended | Strongly recommended for all visitors; often required when your license is not in the local language. |
| Rental car driver | Often required | Many rental agencies ask for an IDP alongside a foreign license at pickup. |
| Long-term resident | Not sufficient | After establishing residency you will usually need a local driver's license. |
| Local license holder traveling abroad | Recommended | Carry an IDL with your national license when driving in most foreign countries. |
Rules vary by region — see the FAQ below for local requirements and traffic laws.
Documents you need
- A valid driver's license from your home country
- A passport-style photo — a phone photo is accepted
- No driving test and no DMV visit required
You do not need to be a citizen or resident to apply.
How it works
- Complete the online application — it takes about 2 minutes
- Upload your driver's license and photo
- Receive your digital IDL in about 8 minutes; the printed booklet ships worldwide
International Driver's License Information & Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driver's License in Burkina Faso?
While Burkina Faso may accept a foreign license for short stays, an International Driver's License is advisable for all international travellers. It ensures police, rental agencies, and insurers can read your credentials — helpful in a French-speaking country where an official translation of your license smooths interactions at checkpoints and counters. You can apply for your International Driver's License online through E-ITA and get your digital IDL within minutes.
What is an IDL/IDP, and how is it used in Burkina Faso?
IDL and IDP are two names for the same document — a booklet that translates your national license into several languages. In Burkina Faso, where official dealings are in French, it presents your license in a form local police and rental staff can read. It works only alongside your original national license, which you must carry with it at all times.
Which side of the road do you drive on in Burkina Faso?
You drive on the right-hand side of the road in Burkina Faso. If you normally drive on the left, take extra care at junctions and roundabouts until the pattern becomes familiar.
What should I know about driving conditions in Burkina Faso?
Driving is on the right, the minimum age to drive is 18, and rental agencies generally set a minimum rental age of 21. Beyond that, treat local conditions with caution: outside the main towns many roads are unpaved, road markings and signage can be limited, and motorcycles and scooters are a very common sight in traffic. Drive defensively, avoid alcohol before driving, and always wear a seat belt and helmet where fitted. Keep your International Driver's License and national license on you for any police or checkpoint stop.
Can I rent a car in Burkina Faso with an International Driver's License?
Yes. Rental agencies in Burkina Faso typically ask for your national license, your International Driver's License, and your passport, with a minimum rental age of 21. Because the IDL translates your license into French among other languages, presenting it helps the counter read your credentials and approve the booking. Many visitors also hire a car with a local driver given road conditions.
Are motorcycles and scooters common in Burkina Faso?
Yes — two-wheelers are one of the most common ways to get around in Burkina Faso's towns and cities. If you plan to ride, wear a helmet, make sure your International Driver's License covers the vehicle category, and stay alert to the dense mix of mopeds, bicycles, and pedestrians in urban traffic.
Can I get an IDP after I've already arrived in Burkina Faso?
It's best to arrange it before you travel, but E-ITA's application is fully online, so you can apply from Burkina Faso and receive your digital International Driver's License within minutes if you're asked for one. Carry the physical booklet with your national license once it arrives.
How long does it take to get my International Driver's License for Burkina Faso?
Only a few minutes. You complete E-ITA's online application and your digital International Driver's License is issued quickly, so it's ready before your trip to Burkina Faso.
Who can apply for an International Driver's License to drive in Burkina Faso?
Anyone holding a valid national driver's license can apply. The IDP translates that license, so your home license must remain valid; in Burkina Faso you carry both documents together, the driving age is 18, and rental agencies typically require age 21.
How long can I drive in Burkina Faso on my foreign license?
For tourist visits, a valid foreign license — ideally paired with an International Driver's License — is generally accepted for short stays. For longer stays you should check Burkina Faso's local licensing requirements, but for a typical trip your home license plus your IDL is what rental agencies and authorities expect.
What travelers say
Reviews from verified E-ITA customers.
“The rental agent asked for an IDP with my license. I showed the digital copy from my phone and picked up the car with no issues.”
“The digital version arrived fast and worked at the rental counter. The printed booklet took five days to arrive, which was fine for my trip.”
“Applied from the airport with urgent processing and had the PDF before boarding. Exactly what I needed for my road trip.”
Ready to drive in Burkina Faso?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
