Renting a car abroad is an excellent way to explore at your own pace, but before hitting the road, you might need one essential document: an International Driving Permit (IDP). Understanding what an IDP is, why it’s important and how to obtain one will make your trip smoother and help avoid unnecessary headaches.

This article explains everything you need to know about International Driving Permits – from where and how to apply, to countries that require them and why having one will save you stress.

Whilst having the right documentation is key to a worry-free holiday, it’s equally important to consider excess insurance for rental cars. This additional coverage provides peace of mind, protecting you from unexpected costs and keeping your holiday stress-free!

What is an International Driving Permit?

To rent a car and drive in many countries, you might need an International Driving Permit. But what exactly is it?

An IDP is an official document that translates your driving licence into multiple languages. Regulated by the United Nations and issued through a global network of AIT/FIA organisations, it allows you to drive in your destination country.

The IDP serves as a recognised translation of your driving licence, it is not a standalone document, it just validates your existing licence for international use. You must carry your actual driving licence alongside the IDP when you are driving. Without both, you may face difficulties with local authorities and could risk a fine.

What Type of International Driving Permit Do I Need?

There are three kinds of International Driving Permits:

• International Driving Permit 1926

Valid for one year, this permit is only required in two countries: Mexico and Somalia.

• International Driving Permit 1949

Also valid for one year from the date of issue, this permit is recognised by several countries worldwide including Canada, New Zealand and the United States.

• International Driving Permit 1968

This is the most widely recognised version, is valid for three years and is accepted in most countries that require an IDP.

The three different versions of the IDP correspond to different international motor transport treaties signed and recognised by governments across the globe. The type of permit you need depends on the requirements of the country you’re visiting.

If you plan on crossing borders, be sure to check the IDP requirements for each country you intend to visit – you may need to obtain more than one IDP.

How Do I Get An International Driving Permit?

It’s often asked if you can get an international driving licence online but unfortunately, you cannot.

International Driving Permits are only available in person from participating PayPoint shops. There are 28,000 PayPoint locations across the UK, many of which can be found in newsagents.

To apply, you will need to bring:

• Your photocard driving licence – if you have a paper licence, you will also need to bring an original valid passport as proof of ID.
• A passport standard photo of recent true likeness.
• The £5.50 application fee – this is payable by cash or card.

You must apply for your IDP before leaving the UK, as you will not be able to get one once you are abroad. As there is no option to apply for an IDP online, planning ahead is key to avoiding travel disruptions.

How Long Does It Take to Get an International Driving Permit?

Provided you have all the correct documents and payment, you’ll be able to collect your International Driving Permit immediately.

It’s possible to purchase an IDP in advance and request the issue date be delayed by up to three months. However, it’s important to note that the start date of an IDP cannot be backdated.

Why Do I Need an International Driving Permit?

The issuer of your IDP certifies that you hold a valid driving licence in your country of residence, confirming that you are authorised to drive motor vehicles. It also indicates and certifies which categories of motor vehicles you are permitted to drive.

Many countries legally require an IDP if you want to drive as a tourist or rent a car. Without it, you could face fines or be denied a rental. Even if a country doesn’t require it, some car rental companies might.

As an IDP translates your licence into multiple languages, it is easier for foreign authorities or rental companies to understand your driving credentials.

IDPs also help promote road safety worldwide as they confirm every driver on the road is authorised and qualified to drive.

What Happens If I Don’t Get an International Driving Permit?

If an IDP is required in the country you are hoping to drive in then it will be compulsory to have it with you along with your usual driving licence.

Failing to carry an IDP when it’s needed can have serious consequences, including fines, having your impounded, or even arrest with a mandatory court appearance.

It’s important to remember that an IDP is an addition, not a replacement, for your national driving licence. To drive abroad, you must carry your IDP along with your national driving licence at all times.

Where Do I Need an International Driving Permit?

For UK licence holders, there are 140 countries outside the EU where an International Driving Permit is required. Countries that require UK licence holders to have an IDP include:

• United States
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Japan
• Mexico
• Australia
• New Zealand

Even after Brexit, you do not need an IDP in countries that are members of the European Union, as well as Switzerland, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

However, if you have a paper licence or your licence was issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey, or the Isle of Man, you may need an IDP to drive in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein. Always check the specific driving regulations of your destination before you travel.

Final Thoughts

An International Driving Permit not only ensures compliance with foreign driving regulations but also provides an additional layer of peace of mind when driving on international roads. The IDP remains an essential tool for responsible and seamless driving across borders.

Please be sure to check the driving regulations and requirements for your destination country before you arrive.