International Driving Permit Valid Countries

140 International Driving License Valid Countries You Can Drive In

Written By
Divya Meena
Last Updated
Jan 23, 2025
Read
6 min

Imagine cruising through the scenic countryside of Europe, driving along picturesque roads that wind through charming villages and rolling hills. The thought of exploring a foreign land at your own pace, stopping wherever your heart desires, does sound like a beautiful dream. But how can you make this dream a reality when it involves driving in another country?

Unfortunately, in most countries abroad, your national driving license alone won’t be enough to get you behind the wheel. What you would need is an International Driving Permit (IDP), a document that serves as your license to drive legally in foreign countries. Let us dive into detail on what the IDP is, in which countries IDP is valid, and the step-by-step process to apply for one, ensuring you are prepared for your international adventures.

International Driving Permit (IDP): Overview

An International Driving Permit (IDP), or an International Driving License, is a legal document that allows you to drive in foreign countries. It is recognised in over 150 countries and is authorised by the United Nations under the 1949 Geneva Convention and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic. The IDP works alongside your national driver’s license, translating it into multiple languages, such as English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian, making it easy for foreign authorities to verify.

Depending on the issuing country and the convention it follows, the validity of an IDP can vary. If issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, the IDP is valid for a maximum of one year from the date of issue. For countries that follow the 1968 Vienna Convention, the IDP can be valid for up to three years. However, in both cases, the validity of the IDP cannot exceed the expiration date of your domestic driving license.

Visiting abroad? Besides IDP, make sure to apply for your destination visa through Atlys, providing a quick, secure and hassle-free visa application process.

International Driving Permit (IDP) Valid Countries

The International Driving Permit (IDP) is valid in a wide range of countries across the globe, classified under two key conventions: the 1949 Geneva Convention on Road Traffic and the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic.

The 1949 Geneva Convention paved the way for international driving regulations and remained significant for travellers exploring North America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania regions. The 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic expanded the scope, incorporating most European countries, such as Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Russia. 

Here’s a complete list of 140 International Driving Permit valid countries:

Europe

  • Albania

  • Andorra

  • Austria

  • Belarus

  • Belgium

  • Bosnia and Herzegovina

  • Bulgaria

  • Croatia

  • Cyprus

  • Czech Republic

  • Denmark

  • Estonia

  • Finland

  • France

  • Germany

  • Greece

  • Hungary

  • Iceland

  • Ireland

  • Italy

  • Latvia

  • Liechtenstein

  • Lithuania

  • Luxembourg

  • Malta

  • Monaco

  • Montenegro

  • Netherlands

  • North Macedonia

  • Norway

  • Poland

  • Portugal

  • Romania

  • Russian Federation

  • San Marino

  • Serbia

  • Slovakia

  • Slovenia

  • Spain

  • Sweden

  • Switzerland

  • Ukraine

  • United Kingdom    

Africa 

  • Algeria

  • Benin

  • Botswana

  • Burkina Faso

  • Cabo Verde

  • Central African Republic

  • Congo

  • Côte d'Ivoire

  • Democratic Republic of the Congo

  • Egypt

  • Ethiopia

  • Ghana

  • Kenya

  • Lesotho

  • Liberia

  • Madagascar

  • Malawi

  • Mali

  • Morocco

  • Namibia

  • Niger

  • Nigeria

  • Rwanda

  • Senegal

  • Seychelles

  • Sierra Leone

  • South Africa

  • Togo

  • Tunisia

  • Uganda

  • Zimbabwe    

Asia

  • Armenia

  • Azerbaijan

  • Bahrain

  • Bangladesh

  • Brunei Darussalam

  • Cambodia

  • Georgia

  • India

  • Indonesia

  • Iran (Islamic Republic of)

  • Iraq

  • Israel

  • Japan

  • Jordan

  • Kazakhstan

  • Kuwait

  • Kyrgyzstan

  • Lao People's Democratic Republic

  • Lebanon

  • Malaysia

  • Maldives

  • Mongolia

  • Myanmar

  • Oman

  • Pakistan

  • Philippines

  • Qatar

  • Republic of Korea

  • Saudi Arabia

  • Singapore

  • Sri Lanka

  • Syrian Arab Republic

  • Tajikistan

  • Thailand

  • Turkmenistan

  • Türkiye

  • United Arab Emirates

  • Uzbekistan

  • Viet Nam                 

North America

  • Bahamas

  • Barbados

  • Canada

  • Costa Rica

  • Cuba

  • Dominican Republic

  • El Salvador

  • Guatemala

  • Haiti

  • Honduras

  • Jamaica

  • Mexico

  • Trinidad and Tobago

  • United States of America        

South America

  • Argentina

  • Brazil

  • Chile

  • Ecuador

  • Guyana

  • Paraguay

  • Peru

  • Uruguay

  • Venezuela            

Oceania

  • Australia

  • Fiji

  • New Zealand

  • Papua New Guinea

International Driving Permit (IDP): Application Process 

International Driving Permit (IDP): Application Process 

Depending on your issuing country, the application process for an IDP may be online or offline. Here’s a general overview of how the process will look like:

Step 1: Check eligibility

Ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria, i.e., you have a valid domestic driver’s license, and you are of legal driving age as per your country’s regulations.

Step 2: Locate the issuing authority

Identify the official organisation authorised to issue IDPs in your country. This is often the National Automobile Association, transport department, or a government-authorized body.

Step 3: Complete the application form

Depending on the mode of application, fill out the form on the official website (providing accurate details about your name, license information, and travel details) or obtain the physical form from the issuing centre and complete it manually.

Step 4: Attach the required documents

Along with the application form, you will need to submit the necessary documents, which generally include a valid copy of your domestic driver’s license, recent passport-sized photographs, a valid passport or national ID for identification, proof of residence and visa copy (if required).

Step 5: Pay the fee

Submit your completed application form along with the required documents and pay the applicable fee for the IDP using a credit/debit card or digital payment option. If you are applying offline, you can also pay using cash.  

Step 6: Collect or receive your IDP

After the processing time is over, collect the IDP in person at the issuing centre or receive it via courier service, if provided. 

Tip: Once you receive your IDP, ensure all the details are correct, including your name, license number, and validity period.

Key Facts about International Driving Permits

  • An IDP is not a stand-alone document; you must carry your domestic driving license with it at all times.

  • You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid domestic driving license to apply for an IDP.

  • An IDP must be issued in the same country as your domestic driving license; it cannot be obtained while abroad.

  • IDPs cannot be issued to those with learner’s permits or temporary licenses.

  • Even if you don’t plan to drive, an IDP serves as an extra form of photo ID.

  • Scanned or digital copies of the IDP are not valid; you must carry the original physical document at all times when travelling abroad.

  • An IDP cannot be transferred between individuals; it is tied specifically to the applicant’s personal and driving details.

  • Some countries allow IDPs only for short-term stays, typically the length of a tourist visa, even if the IDP is valid for a longer period.

  • Holding an IDP does not exempt you from following the local laws and regulations of the countries you visit.

  • While the general minimum age is 18, some countries may impose additional age-related driving restrictions even with an IDP. Make sure to check the local traffic laws of your destination country before travelling. 

Now, you are well equipped with all the information on the International Driving Permit (IDP), which is your gateway to a hassle-free and exciting driving experience abroad. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended adventure, having an IDP can save you from unnecessary inconveniences and help you focus on enjoying the journey. Equip yourself with this essential document and embark on your next adventure with peace of mind. Safe travels!

How long does it take to get an IDP?

Although the time varies depending on the issuing authority and process, it generally takes up to a week if applied online and a few weeks in case of postal applications. 

What are the documents required for an IDP?

To apply for an IDP, you will typically need a valid domestic driving license, passport-sized photographs, a valid passport or national ID for identification, a completed application form, proof of residence and a visa copy (if required).

What is the validity period of an IDP?

  • The 1949 model is valid for up to 1 year.

  • The 1968 model is valid for up to 3 years.

However, the IDP’s validity cannot exceed that of your domestic driving license.

How do I know if I need an IDP?

Whether you need an IDP depends on the agreements between the country where your driving license was issued and your destination country. For example, holders of a UK driving license typically do not need an IDP to drive in many European countries like France, Germany, and Italy, thanks to reciprocal agreements.

To avoid any inconvenience, it’s essential to check the specific requirements of your destination country before you travel, as these rules can vary. Additionally, even if local laws do not require an IDP, some car rental companies may still mandate one, so make sure to confirm this as well.

Can I apply for an IDP while I’m abroad?

No, an IDP must be issued in the country where your domestic driving license was issued.

Do I need an IDP if my domestic license is in English?

Some countries may accept an English license, but many require an IDP for legal purposes or car rentals. It’s best to carry an IDP to avoid complications.