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Can I drive in Tanzania with a Kenyan license?

Yes, a Kenyan driving license is commonly accepted in practice in Tanzania, particularly for short-term visitors. This practice aligns with the spirit of regional cooperation under the East African Community (EAC), which encourages cross-border movement among member states.

When it comes to a visit to Tanzania, either on a tourism basis, short business trips, or even temporarily, you can usually drive with a valid Kenyan national driving license, provided it covers the vehicle type you are operating, though it must be of the type of vehicle in which you are driving (a private car, motorcycle, etc.).

Situations Where a Kenyan Driving License Is Commonly Accepted in Practice

You can drive in Tanzania with a Kenyan license if:

  • You hold a valid and unexpired Kenyan driving license.
  • You are either driving a rental car or your own car.
  • You are staying in Tanzania on a short-term basis, such as for tourism or a temporary visit.
  • You are not working as a professional driver in Tanzania.

Traffic and border police are generally familiar with Kenyan driving licenses, particularly in northern Tanzania, especially in northern Tanzania, in areas such as Arusha and Moshi, where cross-border movement is prevalent.

When you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP)

When you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Even though a Kenyan license is usually accepted, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly advised, particularly when:

  • You will hire a car from one of the Tanzanian rental companies.
  • You plan to drive for several weeks or months.
  • You want to avoid language or format issues during police checks.
  • You plan to drive outside major tourist or border areas.

There are car rentals that demand an IDP regardless of nationality, despite the local authorities accepting your Kenyan license.

Driving long-term or working as a driver in Tanzania

If you plan to reside in Tanzania long-term or work as a professional driver, a Kenyan driving license alone is generally not sufficient. In such cases, you may need to:

  • Transfer your Kenyan driving license to a Tanzanian driving license, or
  • Apply for a local driving license from the applicable Tanzanian traffic and licensing departments.

This usually requires legal residency status, health examinations, and formal applications.

Important documents to carry while driving

A Kenyan license holder who is driving in Tanzania should always bring:

  • Your original Kenyan driving license
  • Passport with a valid visa or entry stamp
  • Vehicle registration documents
  • COMESA Yellow Card insurance (mandatory for cross-border vehicles)
  • IDP (if you have one)

Failure to present the required documents during police checks may lead to fines or other administrative measures.

Final thoughts

In practice, short-term visitors are often able to drive in Tanzania using a Kenyan driving license, especially when you are making short visits. Nevertheless, it is strongly advisable to have an International Driving Permit to ensure easier contact with the police and the rental services. In case of long-term stay or employment, further licensing is needed.

With proper planning of the correct documents beforehand, you are going to have a hassle-free and safe driving experience when crossing the Kenya–Tanzania border.

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