How to translate your driver’s license for use in Turkey? [2025 Guide]
Driving in Turkey with a foreign license? If your license isn’t in English or Turkish, chances are you’ll need to know How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Turkey? before hitting the road — especially for car rentals or traffic stops.
Here’s how to do it quickly, legally, and online.
Why You Might Need a License Translation in Turkey
Turkey allows tourists to drive with a foreign license, but only if it’s understandable to authorities and rental companies. You’ll need a certified translation if your license:
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Is not in English or Turkish
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Uses a non-Roman alphabet (e.g. Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese)
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Is from a country without reciprocal driving agreements
Even if you’re only staying for a short time, a translated license or IDP will help you avoid issues with insurance, car rental agencies, and police.
Also read: Can You Rent a Car in Turkey Without an IDP?
IDP vs. Certified Translation — What’s the Difference?
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is a physical booklet issued before travel that translates your license into multiple languages.
A certified translation, on the other hand:
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Is an official English version of your license
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Can be requested online, even after you’ve arrived in Turkey
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Is accepted by many rental companies and traffic authorities
Helpful: Do You Need an International Driving Permit to Drive in Turkey?
How to Get a Certified Translation Online
At InternationalTravelPermits.com, we make it fast and easy:
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Upload a photo of your driver’s license
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Submit a passport-style photo
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Complete a short online form
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Receive a digital translation in 24 hours
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Order a printed copy shipped anywhere in the world
We are not a government agency, but our translations are widely accepted and perfect for international travelers.
When to Apply for a License Translation
Apply for a translation if:
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You forgot to get an IDP before traveling
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Your license is in a language other than English or Turkish
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You want to rent a car in Turkey
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You want to avoid delays at checkpoints or rental desks
Also read: Driving in Turkey: What Documents Do You Need as a Foreigner?
Final Thoughts
How to Translate Your Driver’s License for Use in Turkey?
Skip the paperwork and apply online in minutes. With fast delivery and global acceptance, we’ll help you drive legally and confidently.
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FAQ
How to translate your driver’s license for use in Turkey? To replace it with a Turkish license, you must provide a notarized translation of your foreign license, along with other required documents like a residency permit and medical certificate.
How to translate your driver’s license for use in Turkey? A foreign license is valid for up to six months from the date of entry. After that, you need either a Turkish license or a translated version with proper authorization.
How to translate your driver’s license for use in Turkey? Yes, but only temporarily. If your license is not in Latin script, you’ll need either an International Driving Permit or a certified Turkish translation to drive legally.
How to translate your driver’s license for use in Turkey? You’ll need to submit your original license, a notarized translation, a residency permit, and pass a medical check to complete the exchange process through the local traffic registration office.
How to translate your driver’s license for use in Turkey? If applying through a provider like International Travel Permits, it typically takes a few business days plus delivery time. Apply in advance to avoid delays.
How to translate your driver’s license for use in Turkey? For driving and identification, acceptable IDs include a valid passport, residence permit, or Turkish ID card. A translated or internationally recognized driver’s license is also essential for legal driving.