🇺🇾 Drive Uruguay with Confidence
Your own licence covers the first 90 days in Uruguay. Enjoy coastal roads and charming countryside routes.
Do You Need an IDP in Uruguay?
Recommended — Your Own Licence Covers the First 90 Days
Uruguay accepts a valid photocard licence from your home country for the first 90 days after you arrive; beyond that you would need a Uruguayan licence. An IDP is not a legal requirement for visitors. Hire companies are stricter than the law here — many ask for an IDP and at least 2 years of driving experience before they hand over the keys. Police (Policía Caminera) run routine checkpoints on major routes, and an IDP presents your national licence in a standard, translated format.
Key Warning
Ruta 1 runs along the coast from Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento and is one of South America's most scenic drives. The road is well-maintained but watch for livestock crossings in rural sections. Ruta Interbalnearia connects beach towns along the Atlantic coast.
Driving Rules in Uruguay
Drive on the Right
Uruguay drives on the right. Roads are generally well-maintained between major cities. Headlights must be on at all times on highways and rural roads.
Coastal Driving
Ruta Interbalnearia connects Montevideo to Punta del Este and beyond. The route passes through popular beach towns. Traffic increases significantly during summer (December–February).
Alcohol Limit
Uruguay has a zero-tolerance alcohol policy for drivers: 0.0% blood alcohol content. Any amount of alcohol results in fines and license suspension.
Speed Limits
Urban: 45 km/h. Rural: 90 km/h. Highway: 110 km/h. Speed cameras are common on Ruta 1 and Ruta Interbalnearia.
Renting a Car in Uruguay
What you need to know before picking up your rental vehicle.
Required Documents
Valid license, passport, credit card — plus an IDP, which Uruguayan agencies often list in their terms alongside 2 years of driving experience. Minimum age 21–23. International credit card required for deposit.
Typical Costs
Compact from $35–55/day. Insurance included in most packages. Fuel around $1.80/liter.
Top Rental Companies
Europcar — Montevideo airport. Avis — Punta del Este. Multicar — Popular local agency with good rates.
Get Your IDP for Uruguay — 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 →Uruguay IDP FAQ
No. A valid photocard licence from your home country covers the first 90 days after you arrive, so Uruguay does not oblige visitors to carry an IDP; after 90 days you would need a Uruguayan licence. Hire companies often do ask for one — many want an IDP and 2 years of driving experience — and an IDP also presents your licence in a standard format at Policía Caminera checkpoints.
Uruguay has a strict zero-tolerance policy: 0.0% blood alcohol. Any detectable alcohol results in fines, license suspension, and potential vehicle impoundment.
Yes. Ruta 1 from Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento runs along the Rio de la Plata coast and is well-maintained. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and passes through charming small towns.