The search above is provided by DiscoverCars.com, World's Best Car Rental Booking Website of 2022.
If you want to be sure to get the best possible deal, we recommend checking also QEEQ.COM, one of the fastest-growing online car rental platforms worldwide, listing over 7 million rental cars in around 200 countries.
Car Rental in Nigeria
Renting a Car in Nigeria
When visiting Nigeria, renting a car can be a convenient way to explore the country at your own pace. However, it’s important to understand the local driving laws and requirements to ensure a smooth and safe experience.
Driving Laws and Requirements
In Nigeria, driving is on the right-hand side of the road, and a valid driver’s license is required to operate a vehicle. International visitors can use their foreign driver’s license for up to three months, but it’s recommended to obtain an International Driving Permit for added convenience.
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with the local traffic laws and regulations, including speed limits, road signage, and any specific rules that may apply in different states or regions of Nigeria.
Choosing a Rental Car
When renting a car in Nigeria, it’s essential to choose a reliable and reputable rental company. Look for a company that offers well-maintained vehicles, comprehensive insurance coverage, and good customer support in case of any issues or emergencies.
Consider the type of car that best suits your needs and preferences, whether it’s a compact car for city driving or a larger vehicle for longer journeys or group travel.
Booking and Documentation
Before booking a rental car, make sure to have all the necessary documentation in order, including your passport, driver’s license, and any additional permits or insurance documents required by the rental company.
It’s also a good idea to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and secure the best rates.
Renting a car in Nigeria can offer the freedom and flexibility to explore the country on your own terms. By understanding the local driving laws and requirements, choosing the right rental car, and being prepared with the necessary documentation, you can have a hassle-free and enjoyable driving experience in Nigeria.
Rental Requirements
Age Limits
To rent a car in Nigeria, you must be at least 21 years old and have held a valid driver’s license for at least one year. Some car rental companies may have a maximum age limit, so it’s important to check with the specific company you plan to rent from.
Driving License Requirements
You will need a valid driver’s license from your home country to rent a car in Nigeria. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is also recommended, especially if your license is not in English. The IDP should be obtained before arriving in Nigeria, and it must be presented alongside your original driver’s license.
Documentation
In addition to your driver’s license and IDP, you will need to present a valid passport and a credit card in the name of the primary driver for security deposit purposes. It’s important to have all necessary documents ready when picking up your rental car to avoid any delays.
Insurance Information
When renting a car in Nigeria, it’s important to understand the insurance options available to you.
Basic Insurance
The basic insurance typically includes Collision Damage Waiver and Theft Protection. Collision Damage Waiver covers damage to the rental car in the event of a collision, while Theft Protection covers the theft of the car.
Additional Insurance
In addition to the basic insurance, there are options for additional coverage. Personal Accident Insurance provides coverage for medical expenses and accidental death for the driver and passengers. Supplemental Liability Insurance offers protection in the event of third-party claims for bodily injury and property damage.
Insurance Tips
Before renting a car in Nigeria, it’s recommended to check your existing travel insurance policies to see if they already provide coverage for rental cars. This can help you avoid paying for duplicate coverage and ensure that you have the protection you need while driving in Nigeria.
Local Driving Laws and Regulations in Nigeria
General Traffic Rules
Driving Side: In Nigeria, driving is on the right side of the road.
Speed Limits: The typical speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 80 km/h on rural roads, and 100-120 km/h on highways.
Other Useful Info: Be aware of traffic congestion in urban areas and the presence of speed bumps on some roads.
Overtaking and Lane Usage
Overtaking Rules: Overtaking should be done on the left side, and only when it is safe and legal to do so.
Lane Discipline: Keep right except to overtake is the general rule on multi-lane roads.
Other Useful Info: Exercise caution when overtaking slow-moving vehicles, especially on narrow roads.
Seat Belt and Child Safety
Seat Belt Laws: Front and rear passengers are required to wear seat belts.
Child Safety: Children under 12 years old should be in a child safety seat or restrained by a seat belt.
Other Useful Info: It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure all passengers are properly restrained.
Use of Mobile Phones
Mobile Phone Restrictions: The use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited, except with hands-free devices.
Other Useful Info: Avoid distractions while driving to ensure safety for yourself and others on the road.
Alcohol and Driving
Legal Blood Alcohol Limits: The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%, with penalties for exceeding this limit.
Zero Tolerance Policies: Commercial drivers and new drivers are subject to stricter rules regarding alcohol consumption.
Other Useful Info: It is best to avoid alcohol entirely when planning to drive.
Tolls and Charges
Toll Roads: There are toll roads in Nigeria, and payment is usually in cash at toll booths.
Congestion Charges: There are no urban congestion charges in Nigeria at the moment.
Other Useful Info: Carry enough cash for toll payments, as electronic payment methods may not be available.
Roundabouts and Intersections
Navigating Roundabouts: Roundabouts are common in Nigeria, and drivers should give way to vehicles already in the roundabout.
Intersection Rules: Right of way is given to vehicles approaching from the right at intersections without traffic signals.
Other Useful Info: Be patient and observant when navigating roundabouts and intersections, as they can be busy and unpredictable.
Headlight and Windshield Wiper Laws
Headlight Usage: Use headlights at night and during adverse weather conditions such as rain or fog.
Windshield Wiper Rule: It is advisable to turn on headlights when using wipers for better visibility.
Other Useful Info: Ensure your vehicle’s headlights and wipers are in good working condition before setting off on a journey.
Emergency Vehicles
Right of Way for Emergency Vehicles: When emergency vehicles approach with sirens and lights, all other vehicles should give way and clear a path.
Other Useful Info: Pull over to the side of the road to allow emergency vehicles to pass quickly and safely.
Driving Tips for Nigeria
Road Conditions
Nigeria has a mix of road conditions, from well-maintained highways to bumpy, pothole-filled roads. It’s important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings while driving in Nigeria.
Urban vs. Rural Driving
In urban areas like Lagos and Abuja, traffic can be congested and chaotic. Be prepared for aggressive driving and frequent stops. Rural roads may be less crowded, but they can be in poorer condition and may have unexpected obstacles.
Using GPS or a navigation app is highly recommended in Nigeria, especially in cities where road signs may be unclear or non-existent. It’s also a good idea to have a paper map as a backup in case of technology failure.
Other Useful Tips
– Drive defensively and be prepared for sudden stops and erratic driving behaviors.
– Be cautious of pedestrians, animals, and other unexpected obstacles on the road.
– Always have proper documentation, including a valid driver’s license and insurance, when renting a car in Nigeria.
Roadside Assistance and Emergency Procedures
Breakdown Procedures
If you experience a breakdown while driving in Nigeria, the first step is to safely pull over to the side of the road and turn on your hazard lights. If possible, try to move your vehicle to a safe location away from traffic. Contact the rental company immediately to inform them of the situation and follow their instructions for further assistance.
Emergency Services
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for the police, 767 for ambulance services, and the roadside assistance number provided by the rental company. It’s important to have these numbers readily available in case of any unforeseen circumstances while driving in Nigeria.
Rental Company Policies
Most rental companies in Nigeria offer 24/7 roadside assistance and towing services as part of their rental policies. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the specific support offered by your rental company and keep their contact information easily accessible while driving. Additionally, make sure to understand the process for requesting assistance and any associated costs.
Where can you Rent a Car in Nigeria?
You can browse all the city locations below, sorted alphabetically. Use Ctrl+F (or Cmd+F on a Mac) to quickly find the one you want to explore.