The districts were created in 2011 in an effort to further decentralise the state.

Except for the two autonomous districts around the cities of Yamoussoukro and Abidjan, the remaining 12 autonomous districts are further subdivided into 31 regions, which are further subdivided into 108 third-level subdivisions, the departments (French: départements).

The lowest level of administrative organisation, which exist in limited numbers, is the commune.

Although they are not divided into regions, the autonomous districts of Abidjan and Yamoussoukro do contain departments, sub-prefectures, and communes.

Each district is headed by a governor, who is appointed by the council of ministers (cabinet) of the national government.