Can an Indian Drive in São Tomé and Príncipe? — Yes, but You Switch to the Right

São Tomé and Príncipe is a small two-island nation in the Gulf of Guinea, lush and quiet, where a car opens up the cocoa plantations, beaches and the dramatic interior of São Tomé island. For an Indian visitor the licensing is simple; the genuine adjustments are the side of the road and the state of the roads themselves.

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. On a small Portuguese-speaking nation an IDP gives rental desks and any police check a clear translation of your entitlement, so keep it with your licence and passport. Arrange the IDP at home before you fly — you can’t get one locally.

The real change: driving on the right

India drives on the left; São Tomé and Príncipe drive on the right. That side switch is the main adjustment for an Indian driver here. Traffic is sparse, which makes it forgiving, but the instinct to keep left is exactly what catches people out pulling away or at junctions. Take your first stretch deliberately until staying right feels natural.

The roads matter more than the rules

The bigger practical issue is condition. A single main road loops São Tomé island near the coast, and many inland routes are unpaved, potholed or washed in places after rain. Posted speed limits and the alcohol limit aren’t well documented, so drive to the surface in front of you rather than any number, keep speeds low, avoid driving after dark where you can, and treat any drink before driving as off-limits. The emergency number is 112.

Before you set off

Confirm your paperwork with the Driving Permit Checker, and read the local notes on our São Tomé and Príncipe driving guide before you collect the car.