Driving License in Cambodia for Foreigners

Cambodia is one of the more accessible countries in Southeast Asia for foreigners wanting to drive legally. There is no requirement to be a permanent resident — any foreigner holding a valid visa can apply for a Cambodian driving license at the Provincial-Municipal Department of Public Works and Transport (PTPD).

For short-term visitors, an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your home country is accepted for up to six months and is recognized by rental agencies. For expats planning to stay longer, obtaining a full Cambodian license is the responsible choice — it reduces legal risk, is required for vehicle insurance, and is often demanded by employers.

The process is straightforward compared to many countries: a short medical certificate, a written test in English, a practical test of basic maneuvers, and a modest fee of $10–20. Most applicants complete the process in under two weeks.

An International Driving Permit translates your home country license into multiple languages and is accepted in Cambodia for up to six months from your date of entry. Before traveling to Cambodia, obtain an IDP from your national automobile association (AAA in the US, AA in the UK, NRMA in Australia, etc.). The process typically takes a few days and costs $15–25.

The IDP is particularly useful when renting a car: reputable rental agencies will request it. It is also recognized by Cambodian authorities during traffic stops alongside your original license.

Cambodia uses a category system similar to most countries. The most relevant categories for foreigners are:

Any foreign national who meets the following criteria can apply for a Cambodian driving license:

• Holds a valid passport
• Has a valid visa of any type (tourist, business, or resident)
• Is at least 18 years old (Category B); 16 years for Category A
• Passes a basic medical examination
• Passes the written and practical tests

There is no minimum residency requirement — technically a tourist can apply, though it is most practical for those staying at least a few months. A work permit or employment is not required.

Prepare the following documents before visiting the PTPD office:

The medical certificate is a simple formality available at any registered clinic in Cambodia. The examination covers basic requirements:

• Eye test (basic visual acuity)
• Blood type confirmation
• General health check (blood pressure, hearing)
• Confirmation you are not under the influence of substances

The process takes about 30 minutes and costs $5–15 depending on the clinic. Results are issued the same day. The certificate is valid for 3 months, so obtain it shortly before your PTPD visit. Any clinic in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, or other major cities can provide this — there is no requirement to use a specific clinic.

Follow these steps to obtain your Cambodian driving license:

Driving license applications are processed at Provincial-Municipal Department of Public Works and Transport (PTPD) offices. The main offices for foreigners are:

Foreign nationals holding a valid driving license from their home country can convert it to a Cambodian license without taking the practical test. This is the recommended route for most expats as it saves time and is slightly cheaper.

Requirements for conversion are the same as a new application, with the addition of your original foreign license. If the license is not in English or French, bring a certified translation. The conversion fee is $20–30 depending on category. You still must pass the written test.

Some agents in Phnom Penh offer a full conversion service for $80–120 including their fee, handling all paperwork and collection on your behalf. This is useful if you have limited time, though entirely optional.

The written test covers Cambodian traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving principles. Most questions are straightforward for anyone with driving experience. Key topics to review:

• Traffic signs: Standard international road signs apply; study warning, mandatory, and informational signs
• Right-of-way rules: Who has priority at intersections; roundabout rules
• Speed limits: 40 km/h in residential areas; 60 km/h in urban areas; 90 km/h on national roads; 100 km/h on expressways
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.05% (stricter than many expect; equivalent to about 1 standard drink for most people)
• Overtaking rules: Overtake on the left; never overtake on hills, curves, or at intersections
• Vehicle safety: Helmet requirements; seat belt laws; phone prohibition while driving

Study materials and sample question booklets are available at the PTPD office or from driving schools in Phnom Penh. The test is not difficult — most applicants pass on the first attempt.

Understanding the key traffic laws will help both in the test and on the road:

Third-party vehicle insurance is required by law in Cambodia for all vehicles. In practice, enforcement is inconsistent, but having insurance is essential for your own financial protection — especially for accidents involving other people or property.

Basic third-party coverage is inexpensive:

• Motorbike (annual): $20–40 for basic third-party; $80–150 for comprehensive
• Car (annual): $50–150 for basic third-party; $200–600 for comprehensive

Major providers include Forte Insurance, Cambodian Angkor Insurance (CAI), and Ly Hour Insurance. Policies can be purchased at insurance offices in major cities or through brokers. When renting a vehicle, confirm whether the rental includes third-party insurance — many motorbike rentals do not.

Note that most travel insurance policies with motorbike coverage require you to hold a valid local license (Cambodian or IDP) for claims to be valid. Riding without a license voids travel insurance coverage for accidents.