Can Tourists Drive in Turkey with a Foreign License? [2025 Guide]
Visiting Turkey and thinking about renting a car? One of the most common questions travelers ask is: can tourists drive in Turkey with a foreign license? The answer is yes — but only under certain conditions.
Here’s what you need to know to drive legally and confidently during your stay.
Can You Use Your Foreign License in Turkey?
Yes — tourists can drive in Turkey with a foreign license, but it must meet specific criteria. Your license must be:
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Valid and full (not provisional or learner’s)
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Written in English, Turkish, or a widely recognized language
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Issued by a country that has a reciprocal agreement with Turkey
If your license doesn’t meet these standards, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) or a certified translation.
Also read: Is an International Driving Permit Required in Turkey?
When a Foreign License Alone Is Not Enough
You will need an IDP or translation if:
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Your license is not in English or Turkish
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It’s written in a non-Roman alphabet (e.g. Cyrillic, Arabic, Chinese)
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You plan to rent a car or drive for more than six months
Rental agencies and police may not recognize licenses they can’t read — which can lead to delays, fines, or denial of service.
Helpful: Where to Apply for an IDP in Turkey – Online & Offline Options
No IDP? Use a Certified Translation Instead
If you forgot to apply for an IDP before traveling, don’t worry. At InternationalTravelPermits.com, we offer:
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Fast, online license translation services
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Digital delivery in 24 hours
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Worldwide shipping of printed copies
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100% online — no appointments or offices
We are not a government body, but our translations are widely accepted by rental agencies and local authorities.
Required Documents for Tourists Driving in Turkey
To stay legal, tourists should always carry:
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Their foreign driver’s license
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An IDP or certified translation
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A valid passport
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Proof of insurance
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The car rental agreement
Want more info? Read: Driving in Turkey: What Documents Do You Need as a Foreigner?
Final Thoughts
So — can tourists drive in Turkey with a foreign license?
Yes, as long as your license is valid and easy to understand. If not, you’ll need an IDP or certified translation to avoid issues on the road.
Stay safe, stay legal — and enjoy the drive.
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FAQ
Can Tourists Drive in Turkey with a Foreign License? Yes, but only for a limited time and under certain conditions. If the license is not in Latin script, you’ll also need an IDP—available via International Travel Permits.
Can Tourists Drive in Turkey with a Foreign License? Yes, a valid driving license is always required. For tourists, a foreign license is acceptable short-term, but an IDP from International Travel Permits is often recommended or required.
Can Tourists Drive in Turkey with a Foreign License? Yes, for up to six months after entry. After that, drivers must obtain a Turkish license or stop driving; an IDP from International Travel Permits is recommended for short stays.
Can Tourists Drive in Turkey with a Foreign License? Not long-term—foreign licenses must eventually be exchanged if you become a resident. While preparing for that, use an IDP from International Travel Permits to drive legally.
Can Tourists Drive in Turkey with a Foreign License? Often yes, especially if your license isn’t in English or Turkish. You can quickly apply for an IDP through International Travel Permits to stay compliant.
Can Tourists Drive in Turkey with a Foreign License? Yes, but driving without a valid license or IDP can lead to fines or even legal issues. To avoid this, apply for an IDP via International Travel Permits before your trip.