Driving in Cairo
Your complete guide to driving and renting scooters in Cairo, Egypt. Learn about IDP requirements, traffic rules, safety tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the road.
International Driving Permit (IDP) in Cairo
IDP Required
International Driving Permit required along with your original license. Some rental companies may accept foreign licenses, but IDP is officially required.
Fine without IDP: EGP 500-1,500 (€15-45)
Where to Get IDP: Apply in your home country before traveling.
Accepted Licenses
Traffic Rules in Cairo
Local Traffic Rules
- 1Rules exist but are loosely followed
- 2Might makes right - bigger vehicles have priority
- 3Horn is used constantly as communication
- 4Lane markings are largely decorative
- 5Traffic lights often ignored
- 6Pedestrians cross anywhere - be alert
Common Tourist Mistakes
- Expecting drivers to follow rules
- Being too cautious (you need to be assertive)
- Not using horn to communicate
- Driving during rush hour (gridlock)
- Self-driving when hiring a driver is cheap
Horn Culture
Essential communication tool. Multiple short honks = "I'm here". Long honk = "Move!" Silence is unusual.
Traffic Fines & Penalties
Speeding
EGP 500-1,500 ($15-45)
No Helmet
EGP 100-500 ($3-15)
No IDP
EGP 500-1,000 ($15-30)
Red Light
EGP 500-1,000 ($15-30)
Drink Driving
EGP 3,000+ ($90+) + possible imprisonment
Safety Tips
Essential Safety Tips
- Strongly consider hiring a driver with car - very affordable
- If driving, be extremely defensive and assertive
- Keep windows up and doors locked in traffic
- Avoid driving at night - poor lighting
- Use Uber/Careem - safer and stress-free
- Keep emergency numbers saved
Best Time to Drive
Very early morning (before 7 AM) or late night. Rush hours are gridlock.
Rainy Season Warning
Rain is rare but when it happens, roads flood quickly and become very slippery.
Areas to Avoid (for beginners)
- Downtown during any rush hour
- Near football stadiums on match days
- Driving to the Pyramids during peak tourist hours
Parking
Average Cost
EGP 10-50 ($0.30-1.50) with attendants, more in garagesScooter Parking
Informal - park where space allows. Tip attendants.
Parking Tips
- Parking attendants (sayes) manage most street parking
- Tip the attendant when leaving (EGP 5-20)
- Hotel parking is safest option
- Mall parking garages are modern and secure
- Never leave valuables visible in car
FAQ: Driving in Cairo
Should tourists drive in Cairo?
Generally no. Traffic is chaotic, rules are ignored, and hiring a driver is cheap (around $30-50/day). Uber and Careem are excellent alternatives.
Is Cairo traffic really that bad?
Yes. Cairo is one of the world's most congested cities. Lane discipline is non-existent, horns are constant, and what should take 20 minutes can take 2 hours.
Can I drive to the Pyramids?
Yes, but parking is chaotic and you'll be hassled by touts. Consider an Uber or organized tour instead. If driving, go very early morning.
Is it safe to drive in Egypt?
Safe from crime, yes. Safe from accidents, less so. Egyptian drivers are skilled but aggressive. Hire a local driver for stress-free travel.
What about driving to Alexandria or Luxor?
Highways between cities are better than Cairo streets. Alexandria is 2-3 hours. Luxor is 8-10 hours - consider flying instead.
Emergency Contacts
Police
122
Ambulance
123
Tourist Police
126
Roadside Assistance
Contact rental company or hotel
Partner link – opens GetYourGuide.com
Practice for Your Egypt Driving Test
Prepare for the official driving theory test with practice questions, road signs, and study materials.