Samoa on a UK Licence 2026: Buy the Temporary Driving Permit

Samoa is a small, slow place to drive, and that is part of its appeal: a coastal loop, a string of villages and very little traffic. British visitors will find the side of the road familiar. The paperwork is local.

The temporary driving permit

GOV.UK states: “To drive in Samoa, you must buy a temporary driving permit, which requires your UK driving licence. Car rental companies will help you with this. You can use the permit for up to 90 days a year.” So a local temporary permit is what lets you drive, and your UK licence is the document it is issued against. If you stay longer, GOV.UK says you must get a Samoan driving licence. Ask your rental company to arrange the permit when you book.

On the familiar side

Samoa switched to driving on the left in 2009. For a British driver, the roundabout direction and overtaking instinct are already right.

Pace, villages and night driving

GOV.UK gives the speed limits as 40 km/h in towns and villages and 56 km/h outside. That is low by UK standards, and the roads rarely tempt you to go faster. Near villages, look out for children and animals. GOV.UK advises against driving at night, because roads are poorly lit and hazards become very dangerous. If you have an accident, you must report it to the police within 24 hours. Drinking alcohol in public is illegal except in bars and restaurants.

The emergency number for ambulance, fire and police is 911.

See the Samoa driving guide for more, check other destinations with the Driving Permit Checker, and compare limits on the Speed Limit Map.

Sources

• GOV.UK foreign travel advice, Samoa, safety and security (temporary permit, 90 days, speed limits, accident reporting, alcohol rules): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/samoa/safety-and-security
• GOV.UK foreign travel advice, Samoa, getting help (emergency number): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/samoa/getting-help