Can an Indian Drive in Palau? — Yes, but You Switch to the Right

Palau is a small archipelago in the western Pacific, best known for its diving and the Rock Islands, and most of what a visitor does is reached by boat rather than car. Where you do drive — around Koror and along the Compact Road on Babeldaob — the licensing is straightforward for an Indian visitor, but one habit needs to flip.

Can an Indian drive on an Indian licence?

Yes. For a short tourist stay an Indian licence is accepted in Palau, and an International Driving Permit is advised to carry alongside it. On a small island administration an IDP gives rental desks and officials a clear translation of your entitlement, so keep it with your licence and passport. Arrange the IDP at home before you fly — you won’t be able to obtain one in Koror.

The real change: driving on the right

India drives on the left; Palau drives on the right. That side switch is the single adjustment an Indian driver has to make here. Traffic is light and speeds are low, which makes it forgiving, but the reflex to drift left is exactly what catches people out when pulling away or turning. Take the first few minutes deliberately until staying right feels automatic.

Drive to the road, not to assumed numbers

Posted speed limits and the legal alcohol limit are not well documented for Palau, so don’t assume a figure — keep your speed down, treat any drink before driving as off-limits, and watch for pedestrians and crossing traffic around Koror. There are no motorways; the network is short local and island roads. The emergency number is 112.

Before you set off

Confirm your documents with the Driving Permit Checker, and see the local notes on our Palau driving guide. For much of a Palau trip a car is optional, so weigh whether you’ll use one enough to justify the rental.