Can a British Driver Drive in the Marshall Islands? — Yes, on the Right, IDP Advised

The Marshall Islands are a string of low coral atolls in the central Pacific, and “driving” here means short local roads on the populated islands — principally Majuro, the capital, and the dense settlement of Ebeye — rather than touring a country by car. For a British visitor the practicalities are simple, but one habit has to change.

Can a British driver use a UK licence?

Yes. For a short visit a UK licence is accepted, and an International Driving Permit is advised to carry alongside it. On small island administrations where rules can be applied inconsistently, an IDP gives any official a clear, translated record of your entitlement, so keep it with your licence and passport. Arrange the IDP before you leave the UK — you won’t be able to obtain one on the atolls.

The one real change: driving on the right

The UK drives on the left; the Marshall Islands drive on the right. It’s the single adjustment a British driver needs to make, and although traffic is light and slow, the side switch still catches people out at junctions and when pulling away. Take the first few minutes deliberately and the habit settles quickly given how short the road network is.

Drive to the road, not to numbers

Posted speed limits and the legal alcohol limit are not well documented here, so don’t assume a figure — drive slowly, treat any drink before driving as off-limits, and watch for pedestrians, children and dogs, who use the roadside heavily on Majuro and Ebeye. There are no motorways; these are short causeway and settlement roads. The emergency number is 112.

Before you set off

Confirm your paperwork with the Driving Permit Checker, see the local notes on our Marshall Islands driving guide, and for the broader picture of permits and fines abroad read our guide on who pays driving fines abroad. A car is rarely essential here — much of Majuro is walkable — so weigh whether you need one at all.