AA Kenya Launches Secure International Driving Permit To Curb Fraud

By Staff Writer

The Automobile Association of Kenya has unveiled a secured International Driving Permit, aiming to curb fraud and ease cross-border travel for Kenyan motorists across Africa and other global destinations.

The upgraded permit introduces enhanced security features to prevent counterfeit reproduction and illegal printing by unauthorised traders. The association says the changes will protect document integrity and improve international acceptance.

Speaking at the launch in Nairobi, AA Kenya officials said the move responds to rising cross-border travel among young people, government officials, entrepreneurs and professionals seeking regional and international opportunities.

“As regional integration deepens and cross-border trade expands, mobility is no longer a luxury, it is an economic enabler. This newly secured International Driving Permit safeguards Kenyan travelers while enhancing their credibility abroad,” the Association said.

Officials said the improved document aligns with international standards and is recognised in countries that are signatories to global road traffic conventions governing driving permits.

AA Kenya said the permit will benefit government officers travelling on official assignments, business owners expanding regionally and tourists seeking self-drive experiences within the East African Community and other destinations.

The association noted that younger travellers, particularly Gen Z, are increasingly opting for self-drive tourism and experiential travel across borders, creating higher demand for internationally recognised driving documentation.

To enhance global acceptance, AA Kenya said the permit will include translations into major international languages to ease verification and compliance in multiple jurisdictions.

The association has partnered with the Touring and Automobile Club of Kenya, which provides Carnet de Passage services commonly referred to as passports for vehicles used outside Kenya.

AA Kenya said the collaboration ensures motorists possess both internationally recognised driving credentials and vehicle documentation required for temporary vehicle entry into foreign countries.

The association urged motorists to obtain the International Driving Permit only through authorised AA Kenya offices and official channels to avoid invalid or fraudulent documents.

It said the reforms come as African countries pursue deeper economic integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area framework, which seeks to boost intra-African trade and movement.