Driving in Uganda: Road Rules & Traffic Laws Guide 2026

Driving in Uganda offers an incredible way to explore the Pearl of Africa’s stunning landscapes, from the misty mountains of Bwindi to the vast savannas of Queen Elizabeth National Park. However, navigating Uganda’s roads requires understanding local traffic laws, road conditions, and driving culture. Whether you’re planning a self-drive safari or renting a vehicle in Uganda for business travel, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about driving safely and legally in Uganda in 2026.

Driving License Requirements

Foreign visitors can drive in Uganda using a valid international driving permit (IDP) alongside their home country’s driver’s license. The IDP must be obtained before arriving in Uganda and is valid for up to 90 days from your entry date. After 90 days, you’re required to obtain a Ugandan driving license from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) offices in Kampala or regional centers.

East African Community citizens can use their national licenses without an IDP. Ensure your license is in English; if not, carry a certified translation. Traffic police regularly conduct roadside checks, and driving without proper documentation can result in fines ranging from 100,000 to 200,000 Ugandan shillings ($27-54 USD).

Which Side of the Road?

Uganda follows left-hand traffic, a legacy of British colonial rule. The driver sits on the right side of the vehicle, and all traffic keeps left except when overtaking. For visitors from right-hand traffic countries, this requires adjustment, particularly at roundabouts and when turning. Roundabouts operate clockwise, with vehicles already in the circle having right of way.

Speed Limits in Uganda

Uganda’s speed limits are strictly enforced through police checkpoints and increasingly common speed cameras, particularly around Kampala and on major highways.

Urban Areas: 50 km/h (31 mph) within city and town limits. This applies to Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Mbarara, and all designated urban zones. School zones may have reduced limits of 30 km/h during school hours.

Rural Roads: 80 km/h (50 mph) on paved roads outside urban areas. This applies to most highways connecting major towns.

Highways: 100 km/h (62 mph) on designated expressways and major inter-city routes like the Kampala-Masaka highway. However, road conditions often make these speeds unsafe in practice.

Murram (Dirt) Roads: While no official limit exists, safe driving on unpaved roads rarely exceeds 40-60 km/h due to potholes, loose gravel, and dust limiting visibility.

Speed Enforcement: Police use both stationary and mobile speed traps. Fines for speeding start at 200,000 UGX ($54) and increase based on how much you exceed the limit. Serious violations can result in license suspension or vehicle impoundment.

Essential Traffic Laws and Regulations

Seatbelts: Mandatory for all vehicle occupants. Drivers and front-seat passengers must wear seatbelts at all times, with fines of 100,000 UGX ($27) for non-compliance. Rear passengers should also buckle up, though enforcement is less strict.

Child Safety: Children under 12 years or shorter than 135 cm must use appropriate child restraints. However, enforcement is minimal outside Kampala, and finding rental vehicles with car seats can be challenging. Bring your own or arrange with rental companies in advance.

Mobile Phone Use: Handheld mobile phone use while driving is illegal. Only hands-free devices are permitted. Violations result in 200,000 UGX ($54) fines and potential license endorsement.

Drinking and Driving: Uganda maintains a strict blood alcohol limit of 0.08%, equivalent to approximately two standard drinks. Random breathalyzer tests occur at checkpoints, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. Penalties include heavy fines (up to 2,000,000 UGX or $540), imprisonment up to one year, and license revocation.

Overtaking: Only overtake on the right side of vehicles. Overtaking on solid white lines, hills, curves, or near intersections is prohibited. Many accidents in Uganda result from reckless overtaking on two-lane highways.

Traffic Lights: Red means stop, amber means prepare to stop (not accelerate), and green means proceed with caution. Kampala has implemented numerous traffic lights, though power outages occasionally disable them. Treat non-functional lights as four-way stops.

Roundabouts: Give way to traffic already in the roundabout. Indicate your exit clearly, and be cautious of motorcycles (boda bodas) weaving through traffic.

Unique Ugandan Road Challenges

Boda Bodas (Motorcycle Taxis): Uganda has millions of motorcycle taxis that often ignore traffic rules, cutting through gaps and running red lights. Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or turning. Boda boda accidents are Uganda’s leading cause of traffic injuries.

Matatus (Minibus Taxis): Shared minibuses frequently stop without warning to pick up or drop passengers. Maintain safe following distances and anticipate sudden braking or pulling over.

Pedestrians and Animals: Expect people, goats, cattle, and chickens on roads, especially in rural areas and near markets. Drive defensively and reduce speed in villages.

Road Conditions: Even major highways can have unexpected potholes, speed bumps (often unmarked), and rough patches. Murram roads become treacherous during rainy seasons (March-May, September-November). Always reduce speed on unfamiliar roads.

Police Checkpoints: Frequent throughout Uganda, particularly on highways and near towns. Have your license, rental agreement, and vehicle documents ready. Be polite and patient—most checks are routine security measures.

Vehicle Requirements

All vehicles must carry:

• Valid registration documents
• Insurance certificate (third-party minimum)
• Two warning triangles
• Fire extinguisher
• First aid kit
• Reflective jacket

Rental companies typically provide these, but verify before departure. Driving without proper documentation results in fines and potential vehicle impoundment.

Insurance Considerations

Third-party insurance is mandatory in Uganda, covering injury or damage to other people and property. Comprehensive coverage is highly recommended for rental vehicles, covering collision damage, theft, and personal injury. Verify what your rental agreement covers and whether you need additional coverage for national parks or cross-border travel.

Most international insurance policies don’t cover Uganda, so purchase local coverage through your rental company or insurance providers like Jubilee Insurance or AAR Insurance.

Fuel and Parking

Petrol stations are abundant in cities but sparse in rural areas. Always fuel up in major towns before heading to remote destinations like Bwindi or Kidepo. Fuel is sold by the liter, with prices around 5,000-6,000 UGX per liter ($1.35-1.62).

Parking in Kampala requires payment to attendants wearing official reflective vests. Rates vary from 2,000-5,000 UGX per hour. Never leave valuables visible in parked vehicles.

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 999 or 112
• Ambulance: 911 or 112
• Fire: 112
• Tourist Police: +256 417 123456

Final Tips for Safe Driving

Drive defensively and assume other road users may not follow rules. Avoid night driving when possible—poorly lit vehicles, pedestrians, and animals create significant hazards. Keep doors locked and windows up in congested traffic to deter opportunistic theft. Always carry extra water, snacks, and a charged phone with offline maps.

Understanding and respecting Uganda’s traffic laws ensures not only legal compliance but also contributes to safer roads for everyone. With patience, vigilance, and proper preparation, driving in Uganda becomes an rewarding part of your East African adventure.

Are you planning to tour Uganda this season and would love to rent a vehicle for self drive trip, simply contact us now by sending an email to info@ugandacarrentalservices.com or call us now on +256-700135510 to speak with the reservations team.