Travel topic · Transport
International Driving Permit: who needs one and how to get it
If you plan to drive in a foreign country that does not recognise your home licence, obtain an International Driving Permit before you leave; most travellers from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, NZ and EU need one for Europe, Asia and Africa.
More
Clear answer on whether you need an International Driving Permit, who must get one, and step‑by‑step instructions to apply, with cost and timing details for 2026.
Key facts
- Who needs IDPcheck
- Most non‑resident drivers travelling to countries that require a translation of their licence
- Typical costcheck
- US $20‑$30, EU €15‑€25, Canada CAD $25‑$35
- Processing timecheck
- Same‑day to 2 weeks depending on issuing authority
- Validitycheck
- Usually 1 year from issue, matches home licence expiry
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Who needs an International Driving Permit
An IDP is a translation of your domestic licence accepted in over 150 countries. You need it when the destination does not accept your licence alone or requires a multilingual document.
Typical travellers who need an IDP:
- US, Canadian, UK, Australian, New Zealand and EU licence holders visiting Europe, Asia, Africa or South America.
- Anyone planning to rent a car, drive a campervan or motorbike abroad where local law mandates an IDP.
- Long‑term visitors (over 30 days) in countries that only recognise an IDP together with the home licence.
| Region | IDP required? |
|---|---|
| Western Europe (France, Germany, Italy…) | Yes (except UK drivers in Ireland) |
| Eastern Europe (Poland, Croatia…) | Yes |
| Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia) | Yes |
| Japan & South Korea | Yes (specific 1949 or 1968 format) |
| USA & Canada | Yes for most non‑North‑American destinations |
Do
- Check the destination’s official road‑traffic authority website before you book; some countries (e.g., Japan, South Korea) accept only a specific IDP format.
- If you only need to drive for a short stay (a day or two) in a country that recognises your licence, you can skip the IDP.
How to obtain an International Driving Permit
Apply through the official motoring organisation in your home country. In the US, the AAA and AATA issue IDPs; in the UK, the DVLA does; in Canada, the CAA; in Australia, the NRMA or state road agencies.
You will need:
- A valid domestic driver’s licence (not expired).
- Two passport‑size photos (or a digital photo for online applications).
- A completed application form (usually downloadable from the issuing body).
- A small fee (see cost table).
- Proof of identity (passport) if requested.
| Country | Issuing body | Online? |
|---|---|---|
| United States | AAA / AATA | Yes |
| United Kingdom | DVLA | Yes |
| Canada | CAA | Yes |
| Australia | NRMA / State road agencies | Yes |
| European Union | National motoring clubs | Varies |
Do
- Apply at least two weeks before departure if you need a mailed IDP; same‑day service is available at many AAA branches for US travellers.
- Keep the IDP with your original licence; it is not a stand‑alone document.
Show 5 sectionsHideCost, processing time and validity, Exceptions and special cases, IDP vs. local licence conversion, Questions people ask, Related
Cost, processing time and validity
Fees differ by country and issuing organisation but stay within a narrow range. Processing is usually immediate for in‑person applications; mailed applications can take up to two weeks.
An IDP is valid for one year from the date of issue, or until your home licence expires, whichever comes first.
| Region | Fee (2026 estimate) | Processing time |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $20‑$30 | Same‑day (in‑person) or 3‑5 days (mail) |
| United Kingdom | £15‑£20 | Same‑day (online) |
| Canada | CAD 25‑35 | 2‑7 days (mail) |
| Australia | AU$20‑30 | 1‑3 days (online) |
| EU member states | €15‑25 | 1‑5 days |
Do
- If you need a fast turnaround, use an in‑person office that offers same‑day service.
- Renew your IDP only when your home licence is still valid; an expired licence invalidates the IDP.
Exceptions and special cases
Some countries accept a certified copy of your licence or a translation without an IDP (e.g., Mexico, some Caribbean islands).
Drivers with a licence from a country that is part of the 1949 or 1968 Geneva Convention may be exempt in other signatory states.
If you are renting a vehicle from a major international chain, the rental company may provide a temporary translation; verify this before applying.
Watch out
- Driving without a required IDP can result in fines, vehicle impound, or insurance denial.
- Police in some jurisdictions may not recognise a foreign licence even with an IDP; always carry both documents.
IDP vs. local licence conversion
In a few countries you can exchange your foreign licence for a local one after a short test (e.g., Germany for EU licences, Japan for US licences with a Japanese translation). This is a longer process than an IDP and usually requires residency.
For short trips, the IDP is faster and cheaper.
| Option | Typical cost | Time needed | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| IDP | Low (see cost table) | Same‑day to 2 weeks | All licence holders |
| Local conversion | Higher (fees + test) | 1‑3 months | Residents or long‑term visa holders |
Questions people ask
International Driving Permit: what is the short answer?
If the country you plan to drive in does not recognise your home licence alone, you need an International Driving Permit; otherwise you can travel without one.
Who does it apply to?
Most non‑resident drivers from the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand and EU travelling to Europe, Asia, Africa or South America where the local law requires a translated licence.
How much does it cost and how long does it take?
Fees range from $20‑$30 (US), £15‑£20 (UK), CAD 25‑35 (Canada) and €15‑25 (EU). In‑person applications can be issued the same day; mailed requests take 3‑14 days.
Can I get an IDP online?
Yes, most national motoring organisations now offer an online application with digital photo upload and mail delivery of the permit.
Is an IDP required for car rental?
Many international rental companies require an IDP in addition to your licence, especially in Europe and Asia. Check the rental policy before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check and were last checked Sep 2026
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