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