Macau on a UK Licence 2026: 1949 IDP Needed, Same Side

Macau is one of the few places in Asia where a British driver feels at home on the road, because traffic keeps to the left. The catch is the paperwork. A UK licence does not work there without a permit.

Licence plus a 1949 permit

GOV.UK says: “You can drive in Macao with a Hong Kong, Chinese or Portuguese driving licence. If you are using a UK driving licence, you need a 1949 international driving permit (IDP) as well.” The permit is required, and it has to be the 1949 version, not the 1968 one used across much of Europe. GOV.UK adds that you cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, and that you “will also need to register to drive in Macao for more than 14 days.” Some hire firms set further conditions, such as a year of experience and a minimum age of 21.

No side switch

Macau drives on the left, as the UK does, so there are no reflexes to unlearn. Congestion takes their place. The old-centre streets are narrow and steep, and parking is hard to find, so slow, tight manoeuvring matters more here than speed.

Before you set off

The emergency number for ambulance, fire and police is 999, the same digits as at home. GOV.UK warns that Uber is illegal in Macao and that police act against drivers and passengers of unlicensed taxi services. For a stay of a few days, licensed taxis and the light rail are usually simpler than a car. If you continue to mainland China, the rules are completely different, so check them on the Driving Permit Checker first. The Macau driving guide has the wider picture.

Sources

• GOV.UK foreign travel advice, Macao, safety and security (1949 IDP, 14-day registration, hire terms, Uber): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/macao/safety-and-security
• GOV.UK foreign travel advice, Macao, getting help (emergency number): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/macao/getting-help
• GOV.UK, international driving permit table (Macao: 1949): https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit