🇳🇬 Drive Nigeria with Confidence
Know the rules. Carry the right documents. Navigate Lagos traffic and intercity toll roads safely.
Do You Need an IDP in Nigeria?
Required If You Are Staying Longer Than 3 Months
A valid foreign driving licence is accepted in Nigeria for up to 3 months — a short visit needs nothing more. Stay beyond 3 months and you need a 1968-Convention International Driving Permit carried alongside your licence. Either way, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) runs regular checkpoints on major highways and will ask to see your driving documents, so carry whichever set you are relying on and be ready to show both together.
Key Warning
Lagos traffic is among the worst in the world. The Third Mainland Bridge and Lekki-Epe Expressway experience multi-hour delays daily. The Lekki toll road provides some relief but remains congested. Avoid driving in Lagos during peak hours if possible.
Driving Rules in Nigeria
Drive on the Right
Nigeria drives on the right. Lane discipline is minimal in urban areas. Motorcycles (okadas) weave through traffic unpredictably. Stay alert at all times.
Lagos Traffic
Lagos has some of the world's worst traffic congestion. Plan journeys outside peak hours (7–10 AM, 4–8 PM). GPS navigation helps find alternative routes.
Toll Roads
The Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge and Lekki-Epe Expressway are toll roads. Electronic payment (LCC e-tag) is available. Cash payments accepted at manual booths.
Speed Limits
Urban: 50 km/h. Highways: 100 km/h. Expressways: 120 km/h. FRSC uses speed guns on major routes. Fines can include vehicle impoundment.
Renting a Car in Nigeria
What you need to know before picking up your rental vehicle.
Documents to Bring
Valid license, passport, credit card — plus an IDP, which rental firms commonly ask for regardless of your length of stay. Insurance is mandatory. Vehicle inspection certificate required.
Typical Costs
Compact from $50–80/day. SUV from $80–150/day. Full insurance strongly recommended. Fuel around NGN 600/liter.
Top Rental Companies
Avis — Lagos and Abuja. Hertz — Airport locations. IVM Rent — Nigerian vehicles with local support.
Get Your IDP for Nigeria — From $29
Digital delivery in 1–2 business days (express as fast as 2 hours). Physical copy shipped worldwide. Valid for 1 year.
Apply Now →Nigeria IDP FAQ
Only if you are staying longer than 3 months. A valid foreign licence is accepted for up to 3 months; beyond that you need a 1968-Convention IDP carried alongside it. The Federal Road Safety Corps runs frequent checkpoints on major highways and will ask to see your driving documents, so carry the licence you are relying on.
Driving in Lagos is extremely challenging due to traffic congestion, poor road discipline, and unpredictable motorcycle riders. Many visitors prefer to hire a driver. If self-driving, avoid peak hours.
Some toll roads offer electronic payment (e-tag) while others still accept cash. The Lekki-Epe Expressway and Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge are the main toll roads in Lagos.