Can an Indian Drive in the Northern Mariana Islands? — Yes, on the Right, IDP Advised

The Northern Mariana Islands are a US Commonwealth in the western Pacific, with Saipan as the hub for most visitors and the place you’d actually rent a car. Because the islands follow US conventions, the practical driving setup will feel familiar to anyone who’s driven in America — and one specific thing will need adjusting for an Indian driver.

Can an Indian drive on an Indian licence?

Yes. For a short tourist stay an Indian licence is accepted, and an International Driving Permit is advised to carry alongside it. The IDP gives rental desks and any official a clear translation of your entitlement, so keep it with your licence and passport. Sort the IDP at home before you travel — it isn’t something you can arrange once you land on Saipan.

The real change: driving on the right

India drives on the left; the Northern Mariana Islands drive on the right, US-style. That side switch is the single adjustment an Indian driver needs to make here. The roads are quiet and slow, which makes it forgiving, but the instinct to keep left is what trips people up when pulling out or turning. Take your first stretch deliberately until staying right stops being a conscious effort.

Drive to the road, not to assumed numbers

Posted speed limits and the legal alcohol limit aren’t well documented for the islands, so don’t assume a figure — keep speeds modest, treat any drink before driving as off-limits, and watch for pedestrians near Garapan and the resort strip. The network is compact and local; there are no motorways. The emergency number is 112.

Before you set off

Confirm your paperwork with the Driving Permit Checker, and see the local notes on our Northern Mariana Islands driving guide. Saipan is small enough that a car is convenient but not essential — decide how much you’ll actually use one before booking.