Do I need an International Driver's Permit to Drive in Europe?

What is an International Driver's Permit (IDP)?

An International Driver's Permit (IDP) is an official booklet that translates your domestic driver's licence into several major languages, including English, French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, German, and Italian. This permit is recognised in 150 countries and helps local authorities verify your driving credentials abroad. 

An IDP doesn't replace your national driver's licence; it complements it. Your domestic licence proves you are qualified to drive, while the IDP provides a globally understood translation of this certification. This makes it easier for traffic officials to verify your identity and driving qualifications and helps overcome language barriers.

Do you need an IDP to drive in Europe?

When planning a driving trip through Europe, you might wonder if you need an IDP.  Whether you do depends on your nationality, the country you're visiting, and specific local requirements.

Generally, if you're from the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA), you do not need an IDP to drive in other EU/EEA countries. However, the rules differ for non-EU/EEA citizens. If your licence was issued outside the EU/EEA, what you need depends on the country you visit. Some accept your licence on its own for short stays, while others ask for an IDP or an official translation. 

Germany, for example, lets UK photocard licence holders drive for up to 6 months without an IDP. Many countries still require an IDP or an official translation of your licence if it's in a non-Latin script (Arabic, Hebrew, Thai, or Chinese) or if they need additional identification.

Special considerations

• Legal Compliance: An IDP can simplify interactions with local police and car rental agencies, who may require it as part of their standard documentation, regardless of legal requirements.

• UK Drivers Post-Brexit: UK drivers with a photocard licence do not need an IDP in the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. You may need an IDP in some EU countries and Norway if you have an older paper licence or a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man. Check the country list on GOV.UK, which also covers non-EU countries such as those in the Balkans.

To determine if you need an IDP, consider these steps:

1. Check Local Regulations: Before travelling, check the driving regulations of the country or countries you plan to visit. You can find this information on official tourism websites or through embassies.

2. Consult Car Rental Companies: Ask the rental company about their IDP requirements if you plan to rent a car. They can provide the most up-to-date advice on whether they require an IDP for their vehicles.

3. Consider your licence format: If your licence doesn't include a photo, isn't in the Latin alphabet, or is otherwise atypical, an IDP is advisable.

How to get an IDP 

Follow this straightforward process to get an IDP to allow you to drive in Europe: 

1. Verify your eligibility: You must be 18 or older and have a valid driver’s licence from your home country to apply for an IDP.
   
   

2. Gather the necessary documents: These include a completed IDP application form from the authorised issuing body in your country, two recent passport-sized photos, clear photocopies of both sides of your driver’s licence and a valid identity document (like your passport).
   
   

3. Find an Authorised Issuing Organisation:

• Spain: Dirección General de Tráfico Provincial.

• Netherlands: ANWB shops

• Switzerland: Automobile Club of Switzerland.

• Other Countries: Check the table below for a more comprehensive list. If you can’t find your country on the list, please check with your local automobile association or transportation authority.

2. Submit Your Application: Most countries require you to submit your application in person, but some offer mail services. Note that when you apply in person, you may receive the IDP on the same day, whereas mail applications may have longer processing times. 

3. Pay the Application Fee: The fee for an IDP varies by country. Check with the issuing organisation in your country for accepted payment methods. These may include cash, credit card, or checks.

4. Receive Your IDP: If you apply in person, you might receive your IDP on the spot. But if you apply by mail, expect to receive your IDP within a few days or weeks, depending on processing times and postal services.

An IDP is just one of the documents you’ll need when travelling to Europe. You must ensure other essential travel documents, such as your passport, visa, medical records, birth certificate, and insurance papers, are valid and officially recognised. If you need to submit documents to an authority abroad, for example for a long stay, you may need certified translations of those that are not in the local language

At Translayte, we provide accurate certified translations to and from over 150 languages, ensuring your documents are valid for official use in other countries so you can enjoy your trip without worry. Get a quote for your certified translation.

IDP application fees by country

IDP validity and renewal

An IDP's validity depends on its format. A 1949-format IDP is valid for 1 year, while a 1968-format IDP, which most European countries issue, is valid for up to 3 years. Neither is valid for longer than your domestic driver’s licence.  If your domestic licence expires before the IDP’s term ends, your IDP will also expire. Also, some countries may restrict how long you can use an IDP, often requiring you to get a local driving permit after a few months.

To renew your IDP, complete a new application, provide updated passport photos, submit a copy of your valid domestic licence, and pay the renewal fee. Many issuers only accept applications in person in your home country, so you may not be able to renew while abroad. Therefore, track your IDP’s expiration date and renew early to avoid legal issues and maintain your driving privileges abroad.

Tips for a successful IDP application process

Applying for an IDP can be straightforward if you follow these tips:

1. Apply for your IDP well before your travel date to allow ample time to gather required documents and address any issues.

2. Fill out the application form with accurate and up-to-date information, double-checking for errors or missing details.

3. Use recent passport-sized photos that meet the specified criteria, such as a plain background and neutral expression.

4. Verify the application fee for your IDP and use an accepted payment method, cash, credit card, or check.

5. Get a confirmation or receipt when you submit your application (if possible) and follow up if you applied by mail to ensure it was received and is being processed.

6. Understand the processing time for your IDP and how it will be delivered, especially if you applied by mail.

7. Keep copies of all documents submitted in your application, including the form, photos, and payment receipt.

8. Only apply through recognised and authorised issuing organisations to avoid scams and invalid permits. Be wary of online services that offer expedited processing or lower fees.

9. If you lose your IDP while travelling, contact the issuing organisation for guidance on the next steps. You may need to apply for a new one upon returning home.

Driving laws in Europe

Driving in Europe

Understanding and following European driving laws helps keep you safe on the road.  Here are the general driving laws you need to know:

1. Driving Side: In most European countries, you drive on the right. The major exceptions are the UK, Ireland, Malta, and Cyprus, where you drive on the left.

2. Speed Limits: Speed limits vary by country and road type:

   • Urban Areas: Typically 50 km/h (31 mph).

   • Rural Roads: Usually 80 - 100 km/h (50 - 62 mph).

   • Highways/Expressways: Generally 120 - 130 km/h (75 - 81 mph).

3. Seat Belts: All passengers must wear seat belts. If you violate this rule, you may pay a heavy fine.

4. Alcohol Limits: Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limits are strict across Europe. The standard limit in many countries is 0.05%, but some countries, like Norway and Sweden, have even lower limits at 0.02%. Always check the specific limit for the country you are driving in.

5. Toll Roads: Many European countries have toll roads. Ensure you have enough money to pay by cash, card, or electronic toll collection devices.

6. Low-Emission Zones: Cities like London, Paris, and Berlin have low-emission zones that restrict or charge high-emission vehicles. Always check if your vehicle meets the environmental standards before entering these zones.

7. Mobile Phone Use: Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal unless you use a hands-free system. Even then, limit phone use to ensure you stay focused while driving.

8. Parking Regulations: Parking rules vary widely across Europe. In urban areas, use only marked parking zones, as unauthorised parking can lead to fines or towing. Also, only people with the proper permit can use disabled parking spaces.