# Travel >> Travel Preparation >> Currency & Exchange

Using US Dollars in Lebanon: Not Legal Tender—Lebanese Pound Only

No, US dollars cannot be used as legal tender in Lebanon. The only legal currency is the Lebanese pound (LBP, LL), issued by Banque du Liban. Merchants, landlords, government offices, and service providers are legally required to accept only LBP.

The Reality: Dollarization in Practice

Since the 2019 financial collapse, Lebanon has become de facto dollarized:

Most prices quoted in USD (fuel, rent, private schools, medical, imports).
Many businesses accept USD cash—often at market exchange rate (not official 1,507.5 LBP/USD).
Fresh dollar accounts ("fresh dollars") vs. trapped "lollar" bank deposits (frozen since 2019).
Supermarkets, pharmacies, hospitals often display dual pricing.

Critical Distinctions

Legal tender: Only LBP. Refusing LBP is illegal.
Contractual freedom: Parties can agree to transact in USD (or crypto, gold)—but enforcement is through contract law, not currency law.
Black market rate: ~89,000 LBP/USD (2024) vs. official 1,507.5. Massive gap drives dual pricing.

Advice for Visitors

Bring **crisp, new USD bills** (post-2013 series, no tears/marks)—exchanged at money changers for market rate LBP.
Use USD cash for large expenses (hotels, tours, car rental) where vendors prefer it.
Carry LBP for small purchases, taxis, markets—many won't make change for $100.
ATMs dispense LBP only (at official rate—avoid). Credit cards charged at official rate—avoid.
Never rely on bank cards for cash access—system largely non-functional for foreigners.