Driving in Peru as a Canada National

Peru offers spectacular high-altitude driving through the Sacred Valley and along the Pan-American Highway, but unpaved mountain roads, Lima traffic, and altitude sickness require careful preparation.

Key Things to Know First

IDP Required

Peru requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in Canada before departure.

How to get an IDP

Same Side of the Road

Both Canada and Peru drive on the right. No adjustment needed.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	Canada	Peru	Change?
Traffic side	Right-hand traffic	Right-hand traffic	Same
Speed unit	km/h	km/h	Same
IDP required	—	Yes	Yes
Min. driving age	16	18	Differs
Emergency number	911	105	Different
Road difficulty	Easy	Challenging	—

Speed Limits in Peru

Urban

40-60 km/h

Rural / Open road

80-90 km/h

Highway / Motorway

100 km/h

Documents to Carry in Peru

Original driving licence from Canada — must be valid and unexpired
International Driving Permit (IDP) — required in Peru. Obtain from your national motoring association before travelling.
Passport or national ID — carry at all times while driving
Car insurance certificate — verify it covers Peru before departure
Vehicle registration / rental agreement

Emergency Number in Peru

105

Primary emergency number in Peru. Save it before you drive.

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full Peru Driving Guide

Road rules, toll system, fuel types, parking, regional quirks — everything you need for driving in Peru.

Read the complete guide