An international driving permit (IDP) is an official translation of your driving licence into multiple languages, recognised in over 150 countries under UN conventions. Most drivers in Western Europe never need one, but head further east or take your car outside the EU and the IDP can be the difference between driving legally and having your vehicle impounded. Here is what you actually need to know before you hire a car or cross a border.
What an IDP is — and what it is not
An IDP is not a driving licence in its own right. It is a booklet — usually with a grey, blue or brown cover depending on its type — that translates your domestic licence into the official languages of the UN conventions (French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Arabic, English and German). You must carry it alongside your valid national licence at all times; without that licence, the IDP is worthless.
The IDP contains your personal details, the categories of vehicle you are licensed to drive, and an expiry date. It does not grant any driving privileges you do not already hold.
Which countries require an IDP
Requirements vary widely, and the rules change, so always verify with official sources before you travel:
- Within the EU and EEA: EU member states and EEA countries (Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein) mutually recognise each other's national driving licences. If you hold a licence issued by one of these countries, you do not need an IDP to drive elsewhere in the group.
- UK licence holders in Europe: Since the UK left the EU, British licence holders may need an IDP in some EU countries. The position changes depending on any bilateral arrangements in place — check your government's official travel advice before you go.
- Outside Europe: Countries such as Japan, India, China and many in Africa and the Middle East require an IDP or will not recognise non-local licences at all. The US and Canada also accept IDPs from foreign visitors, though not all states or provinces require one.
- Rental companies: Even where the law does not strictly require an IDP, some car-hire desks will refuse to hand over keys without one. Check your rental T&Cs.
The two IDP conventions: 1949 and 1968
This is the detail most guides skip, and it matters. There are two versions of the IDP, each based on a different UN convention:
- 1949 Convention IDP: Recognised in countries including the USA, Australia and Japan. Valid for one year.
- 1968 Convention IDP: Recognised in most European countries and many others. Valid for three years (or until your domestic licence expires, whichever comes first).
Some countries are party to both conventions; others only one. If you are driving in multiple countries on a single trip — say, into Morocco from Spain — you may technically need both types. Your motoring club or issuing authority can advise which applies to each country on your itinerary.
How to get an IDP
IDPs are issued by the motoring authority in the country where your domestic licence was issued — not by the country you are travelling to. You cannot buy a genuine IDP online from a third-party website; those websites are at best unnecessary middlemen and at worst outright scams.
In practice:
- UK: Issued by the Post Office (1968 type) or the AA/RAC (1949 type). You apply in person at a Post Office branch with your licence, a passport photo and a small fee.
- USA: Issued by AAA (American Automobile Association) or AATA. Apply online or in person.
- Australia: Issued by your state or territory motoring authority (NRMA, RAA, RACQ, etc.).
- Most other countries: Contact the national motoring club (usually an FIA or AIT member) in your home country.
Processing is usually quick — often same-day at the right office — and fees are low, rarely more than £10–20. Apply at least two weeks before you travel to be safe.
What to carry when driving abroad
An IDP is just one item on the list. Depending on your destination, you may also need:
- Your original national driving licence (mandatory alongside the IDP)
- Proof of insurance valid in the country you are entering — see the driving in Europe checklist
- The vehicle's registration document (V5C or logbook) and, if the car belongs to someone else, a letter of authorisation
- A Green Card from your insurer (not always legally required in the EU but strongly recommended)
- Passport or national identity card for border crossings
Renting a car and IDPs
If you are hiring rather than driving your own vehicle, the IDP question is intertwined with rental rules. Many companies specifically ask for an IDP if your licence is not in the Roman alphabet (Japanese, Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Cyrillic-script licences all qualify). Even if yours is in Roman script, some rental desks in countries outside your own may ask for one as a precaution. Check before you book — it is one of the details covered in the renting a car abroad guide.
How long is an IDP valid?
A 1968-convention IDP is valid for three years or until your domestic licence expires, whichever is sooner. A 1949-convention IDP is valid for one year. Neither can be renewed in the destination country — you must apply again in your home country when it expires.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need an IDP to drive in France, Spain or Italy?
If you hold an EU or EEA licence, no. UK licence holders may need one depending on current bilateral agreements — check your government's official travel advice for the most current position.
Can I get an IDP at the airport or at the border?
No. IDPs are only issued by the motoring authority in your home country before you travel. They cannot be obtained abroad, which is why applying early matters.
Is an IDP the same as an international driving licence?
Yes — "international driving licence" is a common informal name for the same document. The correct official term is international driving permit (IDP).
What happens if I drive without an IDP where one is required?
You risk a fine, having your vehicle impounded, or trouble with your rental company or insurer. In some countries the police can require you to stop driving immediately.
Sources and further reading:
- IDP issuing rules: your national motoring club (FIA/AIT member in your country).
- Country-by-country requirements: your government's official foreign travel advice pages.
- EU mutual recognition of licences: European Commission.
- UN convention texts: United Nations Treaty Collection.