Required Vehicle and Personal Documentation

You will need the following documentation when driving into Namibia:

• Vehicle Ownership Documents

  • If the vehicle is registered in your name, carry the original registration papers (certified copies may be accepted).
  • If the vehicle is under finance, obtain a cross-border letter from the finance company. This letter must include travel dates and the countries you will visit.
  • If rented, get a letter of permission from the rental company when booking.
  • If borrowed, carry a signed authorization letter from the owner along with a copy of their ID.

• Vehicle Insurance

  • Obtain a letter from your insurance provider confirming coverage in Namibia. This letter must specify the travel dates and covered countries.

• Country Code Sticker

  • A sticker on the back of the vehicle indicating its country of registration (e.g. a ZA sticker for South African vehicles).

• Cross Border Charges (CBC) / Road Permits

  • Namibia:

    • All foreign-registered vehicles must pay a Cross Border Charge (CBC) upon entry.
    • The CBC costs N$445 (as of March 2025) and is valid for three months.
    • If towing a trailer, additional fees apply.
    • The permit must be kept in the vehicle at all times and displayed on the bottom left of the windscreen.
    • Fines of up to N$4,000 apply for non-compliance.

  • Other Countries:

    • Botswana: A Vehicle Road Fund Tax of approximately P120 is required.
    • South Africa: A Road User Fee applies.
    • Credit card payments may not always work at border posts. It is advisable to carry cash in the local currency, as foreign currencies are not accepted.

• Red Warning Triangle

  • Namibia South Africa: 1 red triangle is required by law.
  • Botswana: 2 red triangles are required.
  • Ensure rental vehicles are equipped with the correct number of warning triangles before departure.

• Personl Documentation

  • Valid Passport (valid for at least six months from entry).
  • Driver’s Licence in credit card format.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) if your licence is not in English.

Border Post Hours & Procedures

Check the operating hours of your intended border post, as some may have limited hours or specific closures.

Road Conditions and Driving Safety Tips

General Driving Regulations:

• Namibia, South Africa, and Botswana drive on the left side of the road.

• Speed Limits:

  • Urban areas: 60 km/h
  • Highways: 120 km/h
  • Gravel roads: 60-80 km/h (recommended)
  • Secondary roads: 80-100 km/h (watch for signage).

Road Conditions

• Tar Roads: Generally well-maintained but can be monotonous due to long distances. Be mindful of potential tyre overheating, particularly when carrying heavy loads.
• Gravel Roads: Many roads outside major towns are graded gravel roads. A 4x4 is recommended for travel in certain areas, especially after rain. Reduce speed on corrugated gravel surfaces.

• Coastal Roads:

  • Coastal roads (e.g. around Walvis Bay and Swakopmund) are often made of compacted sea salt, making them slippery when damp.
  • Reduce speed and avoid sharp braking.

• Sea Mist & High Winds:

  • Coastal areas often experience sea mist, reducing visibility. Use low beam headlights or fog lights.
  • High winds can increase fuel consumption, so fill up at every opportunity..

Additional Travel Considerations

• Zimbabwe & Zambia: Crossing into these countries requires extensive documentation and a lengthy border process. It is advisable to leave your vehicle in Kasane and arrange a road transfer instead.

By ensuring you have the necessary documentation, understanding local road conditions, and adhering to traffic regulations, you can enjoy a safe and memorable self-drive experience in Namibia.