International Driver's License for Cape Verde Island
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Apply online in 2 minutes — Digital copy in 8 minutesApply in 2 minutes — Receive in 8 minutes
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Printed booklet shipped worldwide — Free ID card includedWorldwide shipping — Free ID card included
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Valid in 175+ countries — Translated into 12 languagesValid in 175+ countries — 12 Translations
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Free replacements if lost or damagedFree replacements if lost or damaged
Do You Need an IDP in Cape Verde Island?
Whether you need an International Driving Permit in Cape Verde Island 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 to drive in Cape Verde Island?
Cape Verde asks international travelers to present an International Driver's License alongside their valid home license to drive. The IDL is an official translation of your domestic license, making it understood by police, local authorities, and car rental companies across the islands. It works with your national license, not instead of it, so carry both. Apply online through E-ITA and have your digital permit within minutes.
What is an IDP as it applies to Cape Verde?
For Cape Verde, an International Driving Permit (or International Driver's License) is a booklet that translates your existing national license into multiple languages so island officials and rental desks can read it. It has no legal force on its own — you present it together with your valid home license, and without that original license the booklet is not accepted.
Which side of the road does Cape Verde drive on?
Cape Verde drives on the right side of the road. Roads vary from paved routes near towns to winding, hilly stretches on the more mountainous islands, so drive cautiously and watch your speed on descents.
What are the main traffic laws in Cape Verde?
* People drive on the right side of the road.
* The minimum age to drive a car is 18. The minimum age to rent a car is 21.
* Cape Verde has a national seat belt law — wear a seat belt whenever one is fitted.
* There is no national law specifically banning mobile phone use while driving, but it is strongly advised not to use your phone at the wheel.
* Helmets are required by law for both riders and passengers on a motorcycle or scooter; there is no age restriction for a child passenger as long as they wear a helmet.
* The maximum speed is 30 km/h (18 mph) in urban areas and 80 km/h (49 mph) on rural roads.
What is the blood alcohol limit for driving in Cape Verde?
The legal blood alcohol limit in Cape Verde is 0.08%. Even so, the safest approach on the islands' narrow and hilly roads is not to drink before driving, as impairment increases the risk of an incident and can affect your rental and insurance.
Do rental companies in Cape Verde require an IDL?
Car rental companies on Cape Verde commonly ask for an International Driver's License with your home license, and typically require renters to be at least 21 even though the driving age is 18. Bringing the IDL smooths the pickup and supports any insurance claim after an incident.
Can I get an International Driver's License once I've reached Cape Verde?
It's best to arrange your IDL before you fly to Cape Verde, but E-ITA's online application means you can still apply after arrival and get a digital copy within minutes for a rental desk. The physical booklet is the preferred document to carry, so order early enough to receive it.
How long is an International Driver's License valid in Cape Verde?
An IDL is usually issued for up to a year and stays valid only while your home license is valid, which fits tourism and short visits to Cape Verde. For a longer stay you should look into a local Cape Verdean license rather than relying on the IDL.
Who can apply for a Cape Verde International Driver's License?
Anyone holding a valid national driver's license who meets Cape Verde's minimum driving age of 18 can apply. The IDL only translates the licence you already have, so you must hold that licence first — E-ITA issues the translation booklet, not the driving entitlement.
How do I apply for a Cape Verde IDL through E-ITA?
Heading to the islands of Cape Verde? Fill in E-ITA's online application, upload a passport-style photo and a copy of your current home license, and access a digital copy within minutes to present to a rental company on Sal, São Vicente or another island; the physical booklet is then mailed to you to carry with your original license. For current pricing and what's included, see E-ITA's pricing page.
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 Cape Verde Island?
Apply in about 2 minutes — digital delivery in 8, printed booklet shipped worldwide.
