São Tomé and Príncipe, UK Drivers 2026: IDP Is Required
United Kingdom
São Tomé and Príncipe
Yes, with an international driving permit. GOV.UK says to keep the correct IDP and your UK licence in the car. Its IDP table omits the islands, so ask the embassy which version. Traffic keeps right.
São Tomé and Príncipe, two volcanic islands in the Gulf of Guinea, is one of Africa’s smallest countries. It can be a low-stress place to drive, as long as you respect the roads and arrive with the right documents.
The permit is required
GOV.UK says: “You’ll need to have both the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car.” The permit is required. GOV.UK’s IDP table does not list São Tomé and Príncipe. For countries that are not in the table, GOV.UK says to check with that country’s embassy and, if you are hiring a car, with the hire company. Do that before you buy the permit, since it is only sold in the UK. Keep the permit with your licence and passport.
The side switch, on quiet roads
Britain drives on the left, while São Tomé and Príncipe drives on the right. Traffic is light and towns are small, so this is a gentle place to adjust. Take the first stretch slowly.
What the roads are like
GOV.UK says many roads are in poor condition and unlit, particularly outside the capital. Animals often walk on them at night, and landslides after heavy rain can block them. Distances are short, but the road sets your pace. A higher-clearance vehicle helps away from the main coastal road, and it is best not to drive after dark. GOV.UK describes taxis and motorbike taxis as often unsafe.
Emergency numbers
Police 113 (or 222 22 22), fire 112, ambulance 222 22 22.
See the São Tomé and Príncipe driving guide, and check onward countries with the Driving Permit Checker.
Sources
- GOV.UK foreign travel advice, São Tomé and Príncipe, safety and security (IDP, roads): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sao-tome-and-principe/safety-and-security
- GOV.UK foreign travel advice, São Tomé and Príncipe, getting help (emergency numbers): https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sao-tome-and-principe/getting-help
- GOV.UK, international driving permit table (countries not listed: check with the embassy): https://www.gov.uk/driving-abroad/international-driving-permit
Speed limits, fines, equipment & license requirements
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but GOV.UK says you need both the correct version of the international driving permit and your UK licence with you in the car. GOV.UK's IDP table does not list it, and for countries missing from the table GOV.UK says to check with that country's embassy, and with the car hire company if you are renting.
The right, the opposite of the UK. Traffic is light and towns are small, which makes the side switch easier, but be deliberate at junctions.
GOV.UK says many roads are in poor condition and unlit, especially outside the capital, animals often walk on them at night, and landslides after heavy rain can block them.