You book the flights, pick the hotels, and even save a few scenic routes on Google Maps. Then you land, walk up to the rental counter, and hear a question that can instantly change your plans: “Do you have an International Driver’s Permit?”
If you are planning to drive abroad, the International Driver’s Permit is one of those small documents that can make your trip feel effortless, or painfully complicated if you skip it. It is not always required, but in the places where it is mandatory, not having one can lead to refused rentals, fines, or stressful conversations with local authorities.
This guide explains what an International Driver’s Permit really is, when you need it, how to get one safely, how long it lasts, and how to use it with confidence. It also includes an updated country list like the original post, plus practical tips you will actually use when renting and driving abroad.
What Is an International Driver’s Permit (IDP)?
An International Driver’s Permit (often called IDP) is not a standalone driver’s license. Think of it as an official, internationally recognized translation of your valid driver’s license into multiple languages and a standardized format.
That standardization is the key. If your license is written in a language the local police officer, border agent, or rental company cannot read, the International Driver’s Permit removes ambiguity. It can also help even when your license is in English, because some countries and some rental companies still require an IDP for foreign drivers.
Important basics to remember:
- You must carry your original driver’s license and your International Driver’s Permit together.
- An IDP does not give you new driving privileges. It only helps prove the privileges you already have.
- An IDP is typically issued as a small booklet and is meant for temporary travel, not residency.
When do you need an International Driver’s Permit?
There are three common situations where an International Driver’s Permit becomes essential.
1) The country’s law requires an IDP
Some destinations explicitly require foreign visitors to have an International Driver’s Permit to drive legally, even for short trips. Rules vary by country and can be enforced differently depending on the region, so you want the most reliable answer before you go: the official government guidance for your destination, plus your rental company’s requirements.
2) Your license is not in a widely understood language locally
If your license is not in English and not in the local language, an IDP is often the safest path. Even when the law allows a certified translation instead, an International Driver’s Permit is the most practical version of that translation because it is standardized.
3) Your rental company asks for it
This is a big one. In some markets, rental agencies may ask for an International Driver’s Permit even when local law is flexible. The reason is simple: it reduces the risk of misunderstandings, insurance disputes, and compliance issues.
If your trip involves driving in multiple countries, the safest habit is: treat the International Driver’s Permit like travel insurance for your plans. You hope you do not need it, but you do not want to be without it.
When you might not need an International Driver’s Permit?
There are plenty of cases where your regular license is enough.
- If you hold an EU or EEA license and you are driving within many European countries, you generally do not need an IDP.
- In the United States, many visitors can drive using a valid foreign license, especially if it is in English. Requirements can vary by state and by rental company, so checking your route matters.
Even in these cases, an International Driver’s Permit can still be helpful. It is a backup document that can reduce friction during roadside checks and at the rental counter.
IDP for EU, Switzerland, USA, and Brazil: what you should know
European Union
If you have a driver’s license issued by an EU or EEA country, you can typically drive across EU countries without an International Driver’s Permit. For non EU visitors, rules vary by country, duration of stay, and license language. If your license is not in a Roman alphabet, an IDP is often recommended.
Switzerland
Switzerland generally allows many visitors to drive with their valid foreign license for short stays, especially if the license is in a familiar language locally. If your license is not easily readable for local authorities, an International Driver’s Permit can prevent headaches during checks.
United States
For visitors, an International Driver’s Permit is often not required if your license is in English, but it may be recommended depending on where you drive and which rental company you use. Official travel guidance also emphasizes checking local requirements and having the right documentation before you drive.
Brazil
Brazil is a common “gotcha” destination because travelers assume an IDP always solves everything. Official guidance indicates foreign visitors can drive for a limited period with a valid foreign license or an international driver’s license, and highlights the need to present documentation properly, including ID and translation requirements in Portuguese. This is exactly the kind of scenario where planning ahead saves time and stress.
Practical takeaway for Brazil:
- If your license is not in Portuguese, be prepared for translation requirements and carry proper identification.
- Do not assume that “having something called an international license” from a random website will be accepted. Only official issuing bodies count.
How to get an International Driver’s Permit?
The application steps vary slightly by country, but the core requirements are consistent worldwide.
You generally need:
- A valid driver’s license from your home country
- A completed application (online, mail, or in person depending on country)
- Passport style photos
- A fee
- Proof of identity
In the United States, for example, official issuers and requirements are clearly stated, and the permit must be issued in the same country as the license.
Can I apply for an IDP online?
Sometimes yes, but only through authorized issuers in your country. The internet is full of websites selling “international driver’s licenses” that are not valid.
If you take one thing from this guide, make it this: if a website is not an official issuer for your license country, the permit is not legitimate.
Consumer protection and official sources warn specifically about International Driver’s Permit scams and recommend using only approved channels.
How long does it take to get an IDP?
Processing time depends on how you apply.
- In person: often quick, sometimes same day.
- By mail: depends on delivery and document handling.
- Online: depends on verification and shipping timelines.
Because travel plans change and shipping delays happen, the most traveler friendly move is to apply as soon as you know you might drive abroad.
How long is an International Driver’s Permit valid?
Many International Driver’s Permits are valid for up to one year from the issue date, but you should always verify the rules that apply to the IDP type you are issued and to the country you will visit. Also, your IDP never outlives your original license. If your local license expires, your IDP stops being useful.
In which countries can I drive with my IDP?
Generally, you can use an IDP in countries that are signatories to the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic or the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.
These agreements have been adopted by a significant number of countries worldwide, making an IDP a versatile travel document. Nevertheless, there may be exceptions and individual country requirements, so it’s wise to check with the relevant authorities or consult with your country’s automobile association for an up-to-date list of countries where your IDP will be valid before embarking on your international journey.
IDP types: 1926, 1949, and 1968 explained
Not every traveler needs to care about treaty names, but understanding the basics can save you from getting the wrong permit.
- There are different IDP formats tied to international road traffic agreements.
- Which one you need depends on the country you are visiting.
- Some official guidance explicitly mentions that different countries recognize different types.
If you are traveling through multiple countries, confirm requirements for each destination, not just your first stop.
| Country or territory | Type of IDP | More information |
| United States | 1949 | Usually not required if the driver’s license is in English. Rules may vary by state and rental company. IDP recommended if the license is not in English. |
| Canada | 1949 | Often recommended if the license is not in English or French. Some rental companies may request it. |
| Mexico | 1926 / legacy references | Acceptance varies. Many sources recommend carrying an IDP to avoid issues with rental companies or authorities. |
| Brazil | 1968 | Foreign visitors may drive for a limited period with a valid foreign license. If the license is not in Portuguese, translation or an IDP may be required. |
| Argentina | 1949 | Generally accepts an IDP alongside a valid foreign driver’s license. |
| Chile | 1949 | IDP commonly accepted. Recommended for foreign drivers, especially when renting a car. |
| Peru | 1968 | IDP is often required or strongly recommended for foreign drivers. |
| Colombia | 1968 | IDP commonly accepted. Rental companies may require it depending on the license language. |
| France | None | IDP is usually not required if the license is readable and written in a Roman alphabet. Recommended in specific cases. |
| Spain | None | IDP generally is not required for short stays if the license is readable. Check rental company policies. |
| Italy | None | IDP is usually not required for licenses in the Roman alphabet. Recommended if the license is not easily readable. |
| Germany | None | IDP is not required for many visitors. Special cases apply for certain license formats. |
| Portugal | None | IDP is generally not required for short stays. |
| Switzerland | None | IDP is usually not required. Recommended if the license is not written in a commonly recognized language locally. |
| United Kingdom | Varies | IDP requirements depend on the country you are visiting abroad, not for driving within the UK itself. |
| Ireland | None | IDP is generally not required for short stays. |
| Greece | None | IDP is generally not required for short stays. |
| Turkey | 1968 | IDP required or strongly recommended for foreign drivers. |
| United Arab Emirates | 1968 | IDP is required for most foreign drivers and for car rental. |
| Morocco | 1968 | IDP commonly required or strongly recommended. |
| Egypt | 1949 | IDP recommended and often required by rental companies. |
| Saudi Arabia | 1968 | IDP required for car rental and driving as a visitor. |
| South Africa | 1968 | IDP recommended, especially if the license is not easily readable. |
| Kenya | 1968 | IDP may be required for longer stays and by rental companies. |
| Namibia | 1949 | IDP is often required for car hire. |
| Ghana | 1949 | IDP is commonly accepted and recommended. |
| Japan | 1949 | IDP is required for most foreign visitors who want to drive. |
| South Korea | 1949 | IDP required for foreign drivers. |
| Thailand | 1968 | IDP required for foreign visitors driving legally. |
| Vietnam | 1968 | IDP required. Local enforcement can be strict. |
| Austrália | 1949 | IDP recommended if the license is not in English. |
| New Zealand | 1949 | IDP recommended if the license is not in English. |
Conclusion
An International Driver’s Permit is a small document that removes big travel friction. It helps translate your license, supports you in destinations that require it, and reduces surprises at the rental counter. The smart approach is simple: confirm the rules for your destination, apply through an authorized issuer, and travel with both your IDP and your original license.
Once your paperwork is handled, the fun part starts: choosing the right car and building the trip you actually want. With Rentcars, you can compare options from trusted rental companies in multiple countries, book in advance, and pick a vehicle that matches your route, your budget, and your travel style.
Start your journey now and unlock the freedom to explore the world your way.
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