What are the prerequisites for obtaining an international driver’s license in Yemen?

Securing an International Driver’s Permit (IDP)/international driver’s license in Yemen is a straightforward process. You only need to prepare your valid home country driver’s license, a passport-size photo, and have your credit card on hand.

If your driver’s license is from a foreign country listed below, you can drive within Yemen using only your IDP, as recognized by the United Nations during the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic:

Canada

Oman

Saudi Arabia

Hong Kong

Japan

Brunei

Bahrain

Lebanon

Australia

Egypt

Trinidad and Tobago

Qatar

South Korea

Brazil

Jordan

Samoa

El Salvador

Honduras

Philippines

Costa Rica

Nicaragua

Iceland

Pakistan

Israel

United Arab Emirates

South Africa

Zimbabwe

Netherlands

Indonesia

Romania

Afghanistan

Kuwait

Libya

Namibia

Laos

Cameroon

Kenya

Nepal

Fiji

Algeria

New Guinea

Djibouti

Iran

Ukraine

Bulgaria

Syria

Bolivia

Paraguay

New Zealand

Argentina

Tunisia

Peru

Belarus

Chile

Poland

What is the legal driving age in Yemen?

The legal age to drive in Yemen is 18 years old, which also serves as the minimum age requirement to obtain an IDP in the country.

Top Destinations in Yemen

Considering Yemen's climate, it is advisable to travel between June and September during the summer months. With your International Driving Permit in Yemen, here are some highly recommended destinations to explore:

Sana’a: The capital city, spanning 5,552 km2, offers a blend of ancient and modern Yemen. It features mosques, bathing houses, and ancient tombs in the Old City. Souq Al-Milh, the oldest souq, is a must-visit for authentic Middle Eastern textiles and art.

Aden: This port city on the southern coast boasts ancient history, including the spice trade route and European sea navigation. Aden is divided into three sections, each with unique attractions such as the Cisterns of Tawila, the National Museum, Sira Fortress, and Little Ben.

Socotra Island: One of four islands in the Socotra archipelago, it is renowned for its distinct flora and fauna. The island offers diverse ecosystems, from dry desert dunes to limestone mountains and coral reefs. Highlights include giant bottle trees and Qalansiyah Beach.

Hadramaut: Yemen's largest governorate in the east-central region, featuring a hilly coastline and inland valleys. Hadramaut supports agriculture, with villages perched on cliffs in Wadi Daw’an. Notable is Haid al Jazil, an ancient village established over 500 years ago.

Most Important Road Rules

Yemen is gradually improving road safety, and while some local drivers may display aggression, tourists should adhere to driving rules and maintain good driving etiquette.

Avoid Drinking Alcohol in Yemen: Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Yemen, and there is zero tolerance for drinking and driving. Maintain a blood alcohol concentration of 0.00% to avoid penalties, including potential confiscation of your International Driver’s Permit or deportation.

Drive on the Right Side of the Road: Yemen follows right-hand driving. Although occasional reports suggest some drivers deviate from this rule, it is crucial to adhere to road markings and lane separators. In rural areas without markings, stay on the right when encountering oncoming vehicles.