Africa
Driving in Malawi
Not always demanded at the desk, but routinely requested by police and insurers. Here is exactly what Malawi expects from a visiting driver, and how to have it before you land.
Malawi
Africa · drives on the left
- Drives on the
- Left
- Rental min age
- 18+
- Ready in
- 8 min
Do I need an international driving permit in Malawi?
Not always demanded at the desk, but routinely requested by police and insurers. Not demanded everywhere, but routinely requested by rental firms, police and insurers.
Which side of the road does Malawi drive on?
Malawi drives on the left-hand side of the road.
What is the minimum age to rent a car in Malawi?
Rental desks in Malawi generally require drivers to be at least 18. Younger drivers may face a surcharge or be refused.
How quickly can I get one before I fly?
The digital document is issued in minutes — the median is 41 seconds after payment — and works offline. A printed booklet ships separately by tracked courier.
Requirements are set by Malawi and can change. We publish what the destination currently expects and update it when it moves. If Malawi refuses the document we recommended for it, our money-back guarantee applies.