Driving in Egypt as a Japan National

Egypt presents challenging driving with Cairo traffic chaos, Nile Valley routes, desert highways, police checkpoints, Sinai roads, and Red Sea coast. Microbus culture and informal traffic patterns dominate.

Key Things to Know First

IDP Required

Egypt requires an International Driving Permit for foreign visitors. Obtain one in Japan before departure.

How to get an IDP

Drive on the Right — You Are Switching Sides

Japan drives on the left, but Egypt drives on the right. Extra caution required at roundabouts, intersections, and after exits.

Tips for switching sides

Side-by-Side Comparison

Rule	Japan	Egypt	Change?
Traffic side	Left-hand traffic	Right-hand traffic	Yes
Speed unit	km/h	km/h	Same
IDP required	—	Yes	Yes
Min. driving age	18	18	Same
Emergency number	110	122	Different
Road difficulty	Moderate	Challenging	—

Speed Limits in Egypt

Urban

40-60 km/h

Rural / Open road

90-100 km/h

Highway / Motorway

100-120 km/h

Documents to Carry in Egypt

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

Emergency Number in Egypt

122

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

Emergency numbers for all countries

Full Egypt Driving Guide

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

Read the complete guide