🇺🇾 Drive Uruguay with Confidence
An IDP is required in Uruguay. Enjoy coastal roads and charming countryside routes.
Do You Need an IDP in Uruguay?
Required — Legally Mandatory for Foreign Drivers
Uruguay requires all foreign drivers to carry an International Driving Permit alongside their national license. Police (Policia Caminera) conduct routine checkpoints on major routes and will request documentation.
Key Warning
Ruta 1 runs along the coast from Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento and is one of South America's most scenic drives. The road is well-maintained but watch for livestock crossings in rural sections. Ruta Interbalnearia connects beach towns along the Atlantic coast.
Driving Rules in Uruguay
Drive on the Right
Uruguay drives on the right. Roads are generally well-maintained between major cities. Headlights must be on at all times on highways and rural roads.
Coastal Driving
Ruta Interbalnearia connects Montevideo to Punta del Este and beyond. The route passes through popular beach towns. Traffic increases significantly during summer (December–February).
Alcohol Limit
Uruguay has a zero-tolerance alcohol policy for drivers: 0.0% blood alcohol content. Any amount of alcohol results in fines and license suspension.
Speed Limits
Urban: 45 km/h. Rural: 90 km/h. Highway: 110 km/h. Speed cameras are common on Ruta 1 and Ruta Interbalnearia.
Renting a Car in Uruguay
What you need to know before picking up your rental vehicle.
Required Documents
IDP (mandatory), valid license, passport, credit card. Minimum age 21–23. International credit card required for deposit.
Typical Costs
Compact from $35–55/day. Insurance included in most packages. Fuel around $1.80/liter.
Top Rental Companies
Europcar — Montevideo airport. Avis — Punta del Este. Multicar — Popular local agency with good rates.
“The Europcar agent in Montevideo asked for our IDP before processing anything. We showed our RoadSeal digital copy and were driving to Colonia within the hour. Uruguay is perfect for road trips.”
Get Your IDP for Uruguay — From $29
Delivered digitally in as little as 2 hours. Physical copy shipped worldwide. Valid for 1 year.
Apply Now →Uruguay IDP FAQ
Yes. An IDP is legally required for all foreign drivers in Uruguay. Police conduct routine checkpoints and will request your IDP along with your national license.
Uruguay has a strict zero-tolerance policy: 0.0% blood alcohol. Any detectable alcohol results in fines, license suspension, and potential vehicle impoundment.
Yes. Ruta 1 from Montevideo to Colonia del Sacramento runs along the Rio de la Plata coast and is well-maintained. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and passes through charming small towns.