For driving in Laos, foreign visitors need to have an International driving permit and valid original driver license.

The main road traffic rules:

  • Traffic moves on the right.
  • Cyclists must be at least 12 years of age.
  • Motorcyclists must be at least 15 years of age.
  • Drivers of four-wheeled vehicles must be from 18 years of age; public transport vehicles – at least 25 years of age.
  • No more than two persons are allowed to ride on a bicycle.
  • One adult person and one child under 11 years are permitted to sit at the back of a motorcycle.
  • While ridden, people on motorcycles must wear helmets.
  • It is forbidden for drivers to use telephones or watch television while driving.
  •  The permitted blood-alcohol level is 0.05%.

Additional information:

  • Police officers have the right to inspect vehicle documents and driver licenses of any driver.
  • In the case of an accident causing injury to a person, the injured person must be sent to a hospital and report the accident to the traffic police. Foreigner drivers who were involved in traffic accidents are barred from leaving Laos before paying compensation.
  • Traffic in Laos is chaotic so foreign drivers should be very careful while driving.


 Driving Overseas - Short Information