I plan on renting a 4x4 in Namibia, and am wondering if an international driver's license is required. Historically, most countries that supposedly "require" this don't enforce it for Brits, Yanks, Aussies, etc. Does Namibia? I just have a California driver's license (and hey, we have desert terrain there, too.) :)
Please advise and thanks!
HS
According to the AA and IDL is required for car hire in Namibia. I've hired cars a number of times in Namibia and SA and have never been asked for it at the rental office... but for the sake of a few dollars - I'd get one as it does seem to be the actual requirement. All it takes is 1 stickler for the rules...
I've been asked for my IDL only once - and that was by the police in SA... but I think it was more of a curiosity than anything formal.
I've been only once in Namibia (March 09) and the rental office and policemen at the "veterinarian fence" asked for this international driver licence ....
RR.
I got one for my trip to Namibia and it was never asked for.
However, since it IS a "requirement", just go to a AAA Office in any of the States with 2 passport sized photos and $10 US and you can get one! Ten bucks is pretty cheap insurance.
According to the US State Dept website, "To drive legally while in Namibia, visitors staying more than a few weeks need an international driving permit. International driving permits must be obtained prior to leaving the U.S. and are available from either the American Automobile Association or the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Short-term visitors do not need an international driving permit; a valid U.S. driver's license is sufficient."
Speaking as a Brit who's hired cars, been stopped by cops, gone through veterinary fences, etc etc (all on repeated occasions over multiple visits to Namibia), I can say that I've never once been asked for an IDP. So long as you have an English-language licence from a country/state that's going to be recognised locally, then I would be amazed if you had a problem.