Eritrea on a UK Licence 2026: Ministry Driving Permit First

Eritrea is a rare and tightly controlled place to drive. For British visitors the licence is a two-step process, and the step that matters happens in Asmara.

How British drivers get a permit

GOV.UK says that to drive in Eritrea “you will need a 1949 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence”, and that you should “take both your IDP and UK driving license to the Ministry of Transportation and Communication and they will issue you with a driving permit.” The local driving permit issued by the ministry is what you drive on. The 1949 IDP and the UK licence are the documents you need to get it.

GOV.UK also notes that you cannot get an IDP outside the UK, so buy the 1949 version before travelling. Build a ministry visit into the start of your trip.

Changing sides

Britain drives on the left; Eritrea drives on the right. The risky moments are the first turns and roundabouts. Start on a quiet stretch and be deliberate until right-hand traffic feels natural.

Road conditions

GOV.UK lists scarce road signs and safety barriers, uneven surfaces, tight blind bends and steep drops, limited street lighting that power cuts can knock out, and other drivers travelling without lights or at speed. Many roads become difficult or impassable in the rainy season. Drive in daylight and carry offline maps.

Emergency numbers

Police 113, fire 116, ambulance 122244.

Before you go, read the Eritrea driving guide, check other countries with the Driving Permit Checker, and see who pays driving fines abroad.

Sources

• GOV.UK foreign travel advice, Eritrea, safety and security (1949 IDP, ministry driving permit, roads): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/eritrea/safety-and-security
• GOV.UK foreign travel advice, Eritrea, getting help (emergency numbers): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/eritrea/getting-help